Technical Details
Brand: Loewe-Opta
Model:Optacord 408
Category:Mid High Fidelity
Application:Consumer
Electronics:Solid State
Country of Manufacture:Germany
Release dates:1965 - 1968
Tracks:1/2 Rec/PB
Speeds: 3 3/4
Max Reel Size("): 7"
Number of heads: 2
Head Composition: Permalloy
Head Configuration: Mono - Full Track
Signal-to-Noise Ratio:42dB for a dynamic range of 46dB
Sound quality rating:5 / 10
Long-term reliability rating: 5/ 10
Additional Details
Description
A
West German battery/mains single speed (3¾ ips) half-track mono
recorder priced at £41 in 1965.
The 408 had a very efficient motor control circuit,
according to a service report changes in voltage between 4½ and
7½ volts had very little effect on tape speed.
This model did however prove to be difficult
to service. In the words of famous British technical writer H.W. Hellyer:
…” (Loewe have) compressed quite a lot
of mechanical gubbins in a confined space. In addition, the electrical
system is a mass of interconnected wiring, with relevant bits appearing
in the most unexpected places. Patience is the keyword when tackling the
408…”
Additional Info
Bias frequency: 55kHz / Power source: mains or 4 x 1.5V batteries / Battery life: 20 hours / Dimensions: 9½ x 7½ x 3½ ” (242 x 190.5 x 84.7 mm) / Weight: 6½ lbs (2.95 kg) / half-track mono