AKAI X-165D (02) PDF MANUAL

Tape Speed: 1-7/8, 3-3/4 and 7-1/2 ips (15 ips optional)

Tape Speed Deviation: Less than ±1.5% at all tape speeds

Wow and Flutter:

Less than 0.12% RMS at 7-1/2 ips

Less than 0.15% RMS at 3-3/4 ips

Less than 0.20% RMS at 1-7/8 ips

Frequency Response:

30 to 20,000 Hz ±3 dB at 7-1/2 ips

30 to 18,000 Hz ±3 dB at 3-3/4 ips

30 to 9,000 Hz ±3 dB at 1-7/8 ips

S/N Ratio:

Better than 50 dB at 7-1/2 ips

Better than 48 dB at 3-3/4 ips

Better than 48 dB at 1-7/8 ips

(1000 Hz “0” VU Recording)

Distortion: Within 3% at all speeds

Cross Talk:

Less than -65 dB (monaural)

Less than -43 dB (stereo)

Insulation Resistance: More than 50 M ohms

Insulation Durability: 1000 V for more than one minute

Erase Ratio: Less than -70 dB

Equalization: Correct equalization for playback of tapes recorded to the NAB curve.

Recording Bias Frequency: 60 kHz

Recording Level Indicator: 2 VU Meters

Recording Playback Head:

(Type) In-Line 4-track stereo/monaural

(Impedance) 1000 ohms at 1000 Hz

Bias Head:

(Type) In-Line 4-track stereo

(Impedance) 500 Ohms at 60 kHz

Erase Head:

(Type) In-Line 4-track stereo

(Impedance) 300 Ohms at 60 kHz

Recording System: 4-track stereo/monaural CROSS-FIELD Bias System

Fast Forward and Rewind Time:

90 seconds using a 1200 ft. tape at 50 Hz

75 seconds using a 1200 ft. tape at 60 Hz

Line Output Level: 1.23 V (‘0’ VU) for tape recorded at “0” VU

Line Output Impedance: 1.5K Ohms

DIN Output Level: 0.4 V

Stereo Headphone Output Level: 30 to 40 mV (Impedance 8 ohms)

Line Input Level: 50 mV to 2.5 V

Line Input Impedance: 400 K Ohms

DIN Input Level: High 20 mV, Low 0.5 mV

DIN Input Impedance: High 400 K Ohms, Low 70 K Ohms

Mic Input Level: 0.5 mV to 50 mV

Mic Input Impedance: 150 K Ohms

Monitor System:

(a) Stereo Headphone (8 Ohms)

(b) Crystal Receiver (Line output jack)

Recording Capacity: 4 hrs. stereo recording using a 1200 ft. tape at 1-7/8 ips

Motor: Hysteresis synchronous 2-speed motor

Revolutions:

3,000; 1,500 RPM at 50 Hz

3,600; 1,800 RPM at 60 Hz

Transistors: 12 silicon transistors

Diodes: 4

Reel Capacity: Up to 7-1/2″ reel capacity

Power Supply: AC 100 to 240 V; 50/60 Hz

Power Consumption: 55 W

Condenser Capacity:

2.8 µF at 50 Hz

2.0 µF at 60 Hz

Dimensions: 13-1/2″ (H) x 13-1/2″ (W) x 9″ (D) (340 (H) x 340 (W) x 230 (D) mm)

Weight: 30.8 lbs (14.0 kg)

AKAI’s exclusive Cross-Field Head offers a wide recording range. Unlike conventional systems where signal and bias currents are combined and applied to a single recording head, the Cross-Field system uses separate signal and bias heads mounted slightly offset.

In conventional systems, the strong magnetic field of the bias current (used to minimize distortion) can weaken or erase the recorded signal, especially at high frequencies.

With the Cross-Field Head, the signal is recorded onto the tape by the signal head. The bias current is applied by a separate head, positioned so its magnetic field assists recording without negatively affecting the already recorded signal. This separation prevents the bias field from weakening the recorded signal, allowing the tape to be recorded over the entire frequency spectrum with maximum fidelity, even at lower speeds.

The AKAI X-165D uses a four-track system for stereo or monaural recording/playback. The Track Selector Knob selects the desired tracks.

4-Track Stereo Recording/Playback:

Set the TRACK SELECTOR to “Stereo”.

The first recording/playback uses tracks 1 and 3 simultaneously.

After the first pass, invert the reels (swap the supply and take-up reels).

The second recording/playback uses tracks 2 and 4.

4-Track Monaural Recording/Playback:

The track sequence is 1 -> 4 -> 3 -> 2.

Set the TRACK SELECTOR to “1-4”. Record/playback on track 1.

Invert the reels. Record/playback on track 4.

Set the TRACK SELECTOR to “3-2”. Record/playback on track 3.

Invert the reels again. Record/playback on track 2.

Use new tape for the best recordings.

Clean the heads before operating your machine.

Unused tape may become soft and sticky. Run the tape once from the supply reel to the take-up reel before threading it for recording.

Your Akai Tape Deck Model X-165D requires constant voltage for optimum performance.

Playback time for a standard 7″ reel (1200 ft.) is about 32 minutes at 7-1/2 ips in one direction.

If sound sources are far from microphones requiring maximum volume control settings, hum or noise might be recorded. Perform a test recording first.

If your machine needs servicing, take it to the nearest authorized agent or contact the Akai Service Dept. in Tokyo, Japan.

A. Dirty erase head: This prevents complete erasure of prerecorded material.

B. Dust on the recording head: Clean the head gently with a soft cotton swab soaked in rubbing alcohol or carbon tetrachloride.

C. AC power voltage lower than standard: Ensure the machine is adjusted to the correct voltage.

A. Grime adhering to the heads: Clean the heads.

B. Oil on the capstan: Clean the capstan.

C. Sticky or dirty tape surface: Try a different tape or clean the tape path.

D. Bent take-up reel: Replace the reel.

Check for correct position of:

A. Record/Playback knob: Ensure it’s set to REC (while pressing the safety button).

B. Input plugs: Ensure microphones or line sources are correctly plugged into the input jacks.

The Model X-165D can operate on AC voltages from 100V to 240V.

CAUTION: Disconnect the power plug from the AC outlet before readjusting power voltage.

1. Check the previously set voltage.

2. If adjustment is needed, remove the FUSE POST (36).

3. Remove the VOLTAGE SELECTOR PLUG (35).

4. Reinsert the VOLTAGE SELECTOR PLUG (35) so the desired voltage (100/110/120/200/220/240V) aligns with the indicator.

5. Change the fuse according to the selected voltage:

Fuse: 100V – 120V use 0.8A

Fuse: 200V – 240V use 0.4A

6. Reinstall the FUSE POST (36).

Maintain line voltage within 10% deviation of the standard voltage for optimal performance and longevity.

Correct tape speed depends on proper Cycle Conversion Switch settings. There are two switches: Switch (A) (3) on the deck top panel and Switch (B) (37) at the rear.

CAUTION: Do not attempt to rotate the CYCLE CONVERSION SWITCHES when the motor is not running.

1. Using a screwdriver, rotate CYCLE CONVERSION SWITCH (A) (3) counter-clockwise approximately one-eighth of a turn.

2. Slide the switch:

For 50 Hz operation: Move the switch OUT.

For 60 Hz operation: Move the switch IN.

3. Rotate SWITCH (A) (3) back to its original locked position.

4. Reset the CYCLE CONVERSION SWITCH (B) (37) at the rear accordingly (match the setting IN/OUT to Switch A).

Tape speed is determined by the SPEED CHANGE SWITCH (34), the presence of the CAPSTAN BUSHING on the CAPSTAN SHAFT (32), and the EQUALIZER SWITCH (16).

Refer to the following table:

TAPE SPEED (IPS)	POSITION OF SPEED CHANGE SWITCH (34)	CAPSTAN BUSHING USED?	USE
	LOW	HIGH	YES	NO
1-7/8	●			●	Long time recording of Jazz, Speech, Lecture, etc.
3-3/4	●		●		High fidelity recording of Popular or Classical music, etc.
7-1/2		●	●		Recording music with max. clarity. Playback of pre-recorded tape.

1-7/8 ips: Set SPEED CHANGE SWITCH (34) to “LOW”. Do not use the capstan bushing; leave it on the CAPSTAN STORAGE POST (4).

3-3/4 ips: Set SPEED CHANGE SWITCH (34) to “LOW”. Mount the capstan bushing onto the CAPSTAN SHAFT (32); it locks automatically into position via notches.

7-1/2 ips: Set SPEED CHANGE SWITCH (34) to “HIGH”. Use the capstan bushing mounted on the CAPSTAN SHAFT (32).

15 ips (Optional): Requires an extra capstan and pinch wheel (not standard).

Important: In each case, set the EQUALIZER SWITCH (16) to the setting that matches the selected tape speed (1-7/8, 3-3/4, or 7-1/2).

1. Place your recording tape (full reel) on the SUPPLY REEL SHAFT (2) (left side).

2. Place an empty reel on the TAKE-UP REEL SHAFT (30) (right side).

3. Secure both reels using the REEL RETAINERS (1 and 29).

4. Thread the tape from the supply reel to the take-up reel following the path indicated by the dotted line in the manual’s diagram. Ensure the tape passes through the TAPE GUIDE (7), over the TAPE CLEANER (8), between the CAPSTAN (33) and PINCH WHEEL (31), and past the heads under HEAD COVER (B) (12).

5. **IMPORTANT:**

If automatic shut-off is required: Thread the tape through the AUTOMATIC SHUT-OFF LEVER (28) slot before it reaches the take-up reel. Set the AUTOMATIC SHUT-OFF SWITCH (24) to “ON”.

If automatic shut-off is not required: Pass the tape directly onto the take-up reel, bypassing the lever. Set the AUTOMATIC SHUT-OFF SWITCH (24) to “OFF”.

6. Secure the end of the tape to the hub of the empty take-up reel.

Note: The Model X-165D requires an external stereo amplifier and speakers.

1. Connect the recorder’s AC CORD (38) to a power source.

2. Connect the LINE OUTPUT JACKS (Left – 40, Right – 43) to the TAPE INPUT or AUX INPUT jacks of your external stereo amplifier using appropriate cables.

3. Connect speakers to your amplifier.

4. Set the POWER SWITCH (20) to “ON”.

5. Set the TRACK SELECTOR KNOB (5) to “STEREO”.

6. Select the correct tape speed using the SPEED CHANGE SWITCH (34) and CAPSTAN BUSHING (if needed).

7. Set the EQUALIZER SWITCH (16) to match the tape speed (7-1/2, 3-3/4, or 1-7/8) of the pre-recorded tape.

8. Load the pre-recorded tape.

9. Set the RECORD/PLAYBACK KNOB (27) to “PLAY”.

10. Adjust the volume using the volume controls on your external amplifier.

Important: The maximum output level of the X-165D is 1.23V. Check the input level compatibility of your external amplifier.

When the tape is threaded through the AUTOMATIC SHUT-OFF LEVER (28) and the AUTOMATIC SHUT-OFF SWITCH (24) is set to “ON”, the unit will automatically stop transport functions if the tape runs out or breaks.

When the end of the tape passes the lever, or if the tape breaks, the tension is lost, causing the AUTOMATIC SHUT-OFF LEVER (28) to drop down. This action automatically cuts off the power to the transport mechanism, stopping playback, recording, fast forward, or rewind.

1. To temporarily stop the tape during recording or playback, push the PAUSE LEVER (25) upwards into the “PAUSE” position. The lever will lock in place, halting tape movement but keeping the electronics active (in record or playback mode).

2. To resume tape movement, lift the curved tip of the PAUSE LEVER (25) slightly upward and then bring it down to its normal (disengaged) position.

The PAUSE LEVER does not function during fast forward or rewind operations.

You can use the Pause Control to set recording levels before starting the actual recording. Engage Pause, set the machine to Record mode, adjust levels using the input source and watching the VU METERS (18, 19), and then release the Pause lever to begin recording.

1. Set the POWER SWITCH (20) to “ON”.

2. Set the TRACK SELECTOR KNOB (5) to “STEREO”.

3. Select the desired tape speed using the SPEED CHANGE SWITCH (34) and CAPSTAN BUSHING (if needed).

4. Set the EQUALIZER SWITCH (16) to match the chosen tape speed.

5. Push the RESET BUTTON (10) to set the INDEX COUNTER (11) to “000”.

6. Load a blank tape.

7. Insert the left microphone plug into the MICROPHONE JACK (Left) (13) and the right microphone plug into the MICROPHONE JACK (Right) (14).

8. Position the microphones at least 7 feet (2m) apart for good stereo separation.

9. Thread the tape as usual.

10. Push the PAUSE LEVER (25) upward to lock it.

11. Press and hold the RECORDING SAFETY BUTTON (23), then turn the RECORD/PLAYBACK KNOB (27) to the “REC.” position. The Recording Lamp (22) will light up.

12. Adjust and balance the recording levels using the RECORDING LEVEL CONTROL KNOBS (Left – 15, Right – 17) while monitoring the sound source (e.g., through headphones connected to jack 21 or via the amplifier connected to outputs). Watch the VU METERS (18, 19). Normal recording levels should peak around the “0” VU mark, occasionally entering the red zone but not exceeding it consistently to avoid distortion. Adjust levels so they do not exceed the black zone on the meters.

13. Once the desired recording level is set, release the PAUSE LEVER (25) by lifting its tip and bringing it down to start the stereo recording.

This requires two separate radio receivers (or a stereo tuner).

1. Connect the speaker output (voice coil terminals) or line output of the left-channel radio receiver to the LINE INPUT JACK (LEFT) (41) on the X-165D.

2. Connect the speaker output or line output of the right-channel radio receiver to the LINE INPUT JACK (RIGHT) (42) on the X-165D.

3. Follow steps 1-6 and 9-13 from the “Stereo Recording using microphones” procedure.

4. Instead of microphones, use the radio signals as the source. Adjust recording levels using the RECORDING LEVEL CONTROL KNOBS (15 and 17).

Using a Crystal or Ceramic Pick-up Cartridge:

1. Connect the left channel output from the record player directly to the LINE INPUT JACK (LEFT) (41).

2. Connect the right channel output from the record player directly to the LINE INPUT JACK (RIGHT) (42).

3. Follow steps 1-6 and 9-13 from the “Stereo Recording using microphones” procedure, using the record player as the source and adjusting levels with knobs 15 and 17.

Using a Magnetic Pick-up Cartridge:

A magnetic cartridge requires a phono preamplifier.

1. Connect the record player output to the phono input of a separate preamplifier (or integrated amplifier with phono stage).

2. Connect the line-level output (e.g., Tape Out) from the preamplifier (left channel) to the LINE INPUT JACK (LEFT) (41) on the X-165D.

3. Connect the line-level output from the preamplifier (right channel) to the LINE INPUT JACK (RIGHT) (42) on the X-165D.

4. Follow steps 1-6 and 9-13 from the “Stereo Recording using microphones” procedure, using the preamplifier output as the source and adjusting levels with knobs 15 and 17.

In monaural recording, only the left channel amplifier and input (MIC or LINE) are used.

1. Set the POWER SWITCH (20) to “ON”.

2. Set the TRACK SELECTOR KNOB (5) to “1-4”.

3. Select the desired tape speed.

4. Set the EQUALIZER SWITCH (16) to match the chosen tape speed.

5. Push the RESET BUTTON (10) to set the INDEX COUNTER (11) to “000”.

6. Insert the microphone plug into the MICROPHONE INPUT JACK (LEFT) (13) or connect the line source to the LINE INPUT JACK (LEFT) (41).

7. Load a blank tape.

8. Push the PAUSE LEVER (25) upward to lock it.

9. Press and hold the RECORDING SAFETY BUTTON (23), then turn the RECORD/PLAYBACK KNOB (27) to the “REC” position.

10. Adjust the recording level using the RECORDING LEVEL CONTROL KNOB (LEFT) (15) while watching the left VU meter (18). The reading should not exceed the black zone.

11. Release the PAUSE LEVER (25) to start recording on track No. 1.

12. At the end of recording on track No. 1, stop the recorder.

13. Invert the reels (swap supply and take-up reels).

14. Repeat steps 8-11 to record on track No. 4.

This procedure typically follows recording on tracks 1 and 4.

1. Ensure the tape is positioned correctly after recording/playing track 4 (i.e., the tape that was originally the supply reel is now on the take-up spindle).

2. Set the TRACK SELECTOR KNOB (5) to “3-2”.

3. Follow steps 1, 3, 4, 6, 8-11 from the “Monaural Recording on Tracks 1-4” procedure to record on track No. 3.

4. At the end of recording on track No. 3, stop the recorder.

5. Invert the reels.

6. Repeat steps 8-11 from the “Monaural Recording on Tracks 1-4” procedure to record on track No. 2.

For recording from a disc player, external amplifier, or radio (monaurally): Connect the source to the LINE INPUT JACK (LEFT) (41). Use a crystal pick-up directly, or connect the Tape Output of an amplifier, or connect a radio’s speaker/earphone output using a suitable cable.

For monaural playback, only the left channel amplifier and output are used.

1. Connect the LINE OUTPUT JACK (LEFT) (40) to the TAPE INPUT or AUX INPUT jack of your external amplifier.

2. Connect a speaker to the amplifier.

3. Set the POWER SWITCH (20) to “ON”.

4. To play back tracks 1 and 4: Set the TRACK SELECTOR KNOB (5) to “1-4”.

5. Select the correct tape speed.

6. Set the EQUALIZER SWITCH (16) to match the tape speed.

7. Load the pre-recorded tape (start with track 1 side up).

8. Set the RECORD/PLAYBACK KNOB (27) to “PLAY”. Play track 1.

9. After track 1 finishes, stop the recorder, invert the reels, and play track 4.

10. To play back tracks 3 and 2: Set the TRACK SELECTOR KNOB (5) to “3-2”.

11. Ensure the tape is positioned correctly (track 3 side up).

12. Set the RECORD/PLAYBACK KNOB (27) to “PLAY”. Play track 3.

13. After track 3 finishes, stop the recorder, invert the reels, and play track 2.

Any previously recorded signal is automatically erased when you make a new recording on the same section of tape.

To erase a tape without recording new material:

1. Load the tape you wish to erase.

2. Ensure no plugs are connected to the recorder’s input jacks (MIC or LINE).

3. Turn both RECORDING LEVEL CONTROL KNOBS (15 and 17) to the “0” (minimum) position.

4. Select the desired track configuration (e.g., “STEREO” to erase tracks 1 & 3, or “1-4” to erase track 1).

5. Press and hold the RECORDING SAFETY BUTTON (23) and turn the RECORD/PLAYBACK KNOB (27) to “REC”.

6. Let the tape run through. This will erase the selected track(s).

7. If erasing stereo or multiple monaural tracks, you will need to invert the reels and repeat the process for the other tracks (e.g., tracks 2 & 4 after erasing 1 & 3, or track 4 after erasing 1, etc.).

For quick and complete erasure of the entire tape (all tracks simultaneously), a BULK TAPE ERASER is recommended.

1. Ensure the RECORD/PLAYBACK KNOB (27) is in the STOP (center) position.

2. To fast forward the tape, turn the FAST FORWARD/REWIND KNOB (26) clockwise to the FWD position.

3. To rewind the tape, turn the FAST FORWARD/REWIND KNOB (26) counter-clockwise to the RWD position.

4. To stop fast forward or rewind, return the FAST FORWARD/REWIND KNOB (26) to the center (STOP) position.

Note: The FAST FORWARD/REWIND KNOB (26) cannot be turned unless the RECORD/PLAYBACK KNOB (27) is in the STOP position.

Connect stereo headphones to the STEREO HEADPHONE JACK (21).

During recording, you can typically monitor the input signal (source monitoring). During playback, you monitor the signal being read from the tape.

Use stereo headphones for both monaural and stereo monitoring.

Caution: Stereo headphones should be of low impedance type (approximately 8 ohms).

1. Cut the tape ends diagonally. An overlap is needed so the ends line up perfectly when joined. Cutting diagonally minimizes the audible effect of the splice during playback.

2. Align the cut ends carefully on a splicing block or suitable surface, ensuring the coated sides match.

3. Cover the aligned ends with appropriate SPLICING TAPE.

4. Press firmly and evenly to secure the splice.

5. Trim off any excess splicing tape that overhangs the edges of the recording tape. It’s recommended to cut very slightly into the recording tape edges when trimming; this prevents the sticky adhesive from oozing out and potentially causing issues with tape transport or head contamination.

Using scissors requires skill. A dedicated PORTABLE SPLICER (like the optional Akai AS-3) can make the process easier and more precise.

Why: Tape oxide deposits, dust, and magnetic particles accumulate on the heads (erase, record, playback), tape guides, capstan, and pinch roller during use. This build-up causes poor head-to-tape contact, leading to deteriorating sound quality, loss of sensitivity (especially high frequencies), and reduced recording, playback, and erase quality. Dirty heads are a major cause of tape recording failures.

How:

1. Make it a rule to clean the heads and tape path every time you use your recorder, or at least frequently.

2. Use a dedicated Head Cleaning Kit (like the optional Akai HC-500) or rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol) and soft, lint-free cotton swabs.

3. Moisten a swab with the cleaning fluid.

4. Gently but thoroughly rub the surfaces of the erase, record, and playback heads where the tape makes contact.

5. Clean the metal tape guides.

6. Clean the capstan shaft (the metal pin that drives the tape).

7. Clean the pinch roller (the rubber wheel that presses the tape against the capstan).

8. Use a dry swab to remove any excess fluid.

9. Allow a moment for any residual fluid to evaporate before loading a tape.

Why: Over time, the steel pole pieces in the record and playback heads can become slightly magnetized. This residual magnetism can partially erase the high frequencies on your tapes and introduce noise or distortion. Severe magnetization (e.g., from using magnetized tools near the heads) can cause significant signal loss and noise.

How: Although the Model X-165D has a built-in Head Demagnetizing Circuit, periodic demagnetization using an external head demagnetizer (like the optional Akai AH-6) is recommended.

1. Turn the tape recorder OFF.

2. Turn the head demagnetizer ON, keeping it several feet away from the recorder.

3. **NOTE:** To avoid scratching the head surfaces, cover the tips/prongs of the demagnetizer with masking tape or a similar soft material.

4. Slowly bring the demagnetizer close to the heads.

5. Lightly touch or bring the demagnetizer tips very close to the face of each head (erase, record, playback) and any metal tape guides in the tape path.

6. Move the demagnetizer in small, slow, circular or sweeping motions over the entire surface area of the heads and guides for a few seconds each.

7. VERY SLOWLY withdraw the demagnetizer from the recorder area to a distance of several feet BEFORE turning it OFF. Turning the demagnetizer off while it is near the heads can magnetize them.

This requires two tape recorders: one for playback (source machine) and the X-165D for recording.

1. Connect the LINE OUTPUT JACKS or EXTERNAL SPEAKER JACKS of the playback machine to the LINE INPUT JACKS (Left – 41, Right – 42) of the X-165D.

2. Follow the procedure for “Stereo Recording” or “Monaural Recording” on the X-165D, using the signal from the playback machine as the input source.

3. Load the source tape onto the playback machine and a blank tape onto the X-165D.

4. Set levels on the X-165D while playing a portion of the source tape (use Pause on the X-165D).

5. Start recording on the X-165D and then start playback on the source machine.

The DIN JACK (39), located on the left side panel, provides a single connection point for both recording input and playback output when used with an external stereo amplifier equipped with a compatible DIN jack. This simplifies connections compared to using four separate RCA plugs.

The pinout allows for:

• Ground

• Preamp Output (Left Channel – Recorder)

• Preamp Output (Right Channel – Recorder)

• Record Input (Right Channel – External Amp)

• Record Input (Left Channel – External Amp)

If your amplifier doesn’t have a DIN jack, the standard accessory AKAI Cord DR 110 can be used to adapt the connection.

Note on Input Level: The DIN Jack also has an associated HIGH/LOW Input Selector Switch (part of 39). Set this switch based on the output level of your external amplifier when using the DIN connection for recording:

• If the amplifier output level is more than 50 mV, set the switch to “HIGH.”

• If the amplifier output level is more than 5 mV (but not more than 50mV), set the switch to “LOW.”

The Model X-165D has a unique ventilation system to prevent excessive heat build-up. However, it is recommended to always position the unit with some space around it.

Ensure there is a short distance between the unit and any wall, screen, or other obstacle to allow for good air circulation and prevent overheating, which could shorten the life of component parts.

DR-110 Connection Cord: 1

Silicon Oil Kit: 1

Smoked Plastic Dust Cover: 1

Operator’s Manual: 1