Standard 4-track, 2-channel stereo audio playback.
The transport controls are "full-logic" feather-touch buttons, a premium feature at the time. Unlike basic mechanical switches, full-logic controls respond to the lightest finger touch, allowing for fast, effortless, and immediate function selection. They also permit you to change functions (e.g., going from fast-forward directly to play) without pressing "stop," reducing wear on the mechanism.
reveals a deck built for strict timing precision and low-noise operational output: Specification Parameter Value / Detail 2-Head, Single Compact Cassette Deck Track System 4-Track, 2-Channel Stereo Tape Speed 4.76 cm/s (1-7/8 ips) Heads 1 x Record/Playback, 1 x Erase Motor Type Electronically speed-controlled DC motor Tape Compatibility Type I (Normal), Type II (CrO2), Type IV (Metal) Wow & Flutter 0.04% WRMS Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) Signal-to-Noise Ratio 73 dB (with Dolby C active) Frequency Response (Metal) 30 Hz to 18,000 Hz ($\pm$3dB) Dimensions (W x H x D) 440 x 103 x 273 mm Weight Design and Front-Panel Ergonomics The physical layout of the
Utilizes separate Master Record Level and Balance dials to perfectly trim incoming stereo signals. akai cs-f21
The single most common issue with the CS-F21, and virtually all belt-driven cassette decks of its era, is the deterioration of the rubber drive belts. After decades, the original belts turn into a sticky, black "goo" that can gum up the motor pulley and capstan flywheel.
When paired with a quality Type II or Type IV tape and Dolby-C noise reduction, high-frequency hiss disappears almost completely. This makes it a great choice for recording custom mixtapes or archiving old vinyl albums. Maintenance, Common Failure Points, and Restoration
Better than 58 dB (Metal tape, Dolby NR off); improves up to 73–75 dB with Dolby C. Key Features Transport Control: Standard 4-track, 2-channel stereo audio playback
The full-logic transport relies on solenoids to physically shift the head assembly upward into contact with the tape. If a unit has sat unused in a closet for decades, the original factory grease hardens. Pressing play will result in a clicking sound, but the mechanism fails to engage or eats the tape.
In the 2020s, owning a CS-F21 is an act of passion, not necessity. Because of its age, almost every CS-F21 you encounter will require some level of service, making the restoration community a vital part of its legacy.
Often found in a sleek silver or grey finish, typical of the 1982 Akai lineup which included similar models like the CS-F110. Maintenance & Care They also permit you to change functions (e
It features a 2-head design. A high-density metallic head handles both recording and playback, while a second dedicated head manages tape erasure.
Features a switchable Multiplex filter to cut out the 19 kHz pilot signal when recording FM radio broadcasts, keeping it from interfering with the Dolby noise reduction circuitry. Maintenance, Common Faults, and Restorations
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| Category | Specification | | :--- | :--- | | | 2-head, single compact cassette deck | | Track System | 4-track, 2-channel stereo | | Tape Speed | 4.76 cm/s | | Heads | 1 x record/playback, 1 x erase | | Motors | 1 x electronically speed controlled DC motor | | Tape Types | Normal (Type I), Chrome (CrO₂/Type II), Metal (Type IV) | | Noise Reduction | Dolby B, Dolby C | | Frequency Response | 30 - 15,000 Hz (Type I), 30 - 16,000 Hz (Type II), 30 - 18,000 Hz (Type IV) | | Signal-to-Noise Ratio | >60 dB (without Dolby), >73 dB (with Dolby C) | | Wow and Flutter | ± 0.04 % (WRMS) | | Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) | 0.8% | | Inputs | 70 mV / 47 kOhm (Line), 0.25 mV / 600 Ohm (Mic) | | Outputs | 410 mV (Line), Headphone jack, DIN socket | | Dimensions | 440 x 103 x 273 mm | | Weight | 4.1 kg | | Manufacturing Period | 1982 - 1985 | | Original Retail Price | USD $250 (approx.) |