Technical Details
Brand: Akai
Model:M6
Category:Mid High Fidelity
Application:Consumer
Electronics:Tube
Equalization:NAB
Country of Manufacture:Japan
Release dates:1961 - 1964
Tracks:1/4 Rec/PB
Speeds: 3 3/4, 7 1/2, 15
Max Reel Size("): 10.5"
Number of heads: 2
Head Composition: Permalloy
Head Configuration: Stereo
# Motors: 3
Auto Reverse?:No
Voltage(s): 220-240v
Outputs: RCA
Frequency Response:7½ ips: 30Hz -20kHz
Wow and Flutter:less than 0.07 % at 7½ ips
Signal-to-Noise Ratio:-45db
Sound quality rating:7 / 10
Long-term reliability rating: 7/ 10
Additional Details
Description
The Akai M6 (also known as both the Terecorder and the “Multi-Four” in the UK) was a
quarter-track stereo recorder with advanced specifications and styling for the times. Vertical or horizontal operation, 3 speeds (up to 15 ips), a large hysteresis synchronous motor giving uncommonly low (0.07% RMS) wow & flutter and a signal to noise ratio of better than -45db.
The M6 was fitted with two separate and identical amplifiers (clearly marked “left” and “right” – an
obvious influence from the Ampex 601), the upper (left) drove a single loudspeaker at the top of the cabinet for monitoring purposes.
Each amplifier had a socket to drive an extension speaker – a pair of which clipped together and comprised the lid to the unit when transporting. These contained an 8″ coaxial speaker and were amply driven by a claimed 6 watts per channel.
An additional socket on each amplifier was connected to the output of the playback head so that the unit could drive an external amplifier. An automatic stop device was also fitted.
Additional Info
Cross-talk: 80 db at 1kHz / Valve complement: 2 x 6267 (EF86), 2 x 12AD7, 2 x 6BQ5, 1 x 6AR5, 2 x 6X4 / Rewind speed: 2½ minutes for 1,200 ft reel / Audio output power: 6 watts per channel / Inputs: Low level high impedance mic input, high level line input / Outputs: High impedance head output, 8 / 16 ohm amplifier output / Speaker(s): 2 x 8″ coaxial extension speakers (optional) / Dimensions: 14 x 20½ x 8½” (356 x 521 x 216 mm) / Weight: 47 lbs (21.4 kg) / Quarter-track stereo