In which Statler & Waldorf assess the Akai 4000DS…
PS I really rate these. Really nice sounding and well constructed machines. I’ve got a 4000DB the same as Mike’s above that I found at the local auction for £35 in dirty but otherwise superb condition. After a good clean, re-lube, new pinch roller (it had been left in play so had a ding) and belts it works really well. Miles ahead of any cassette deck I‘ve ever owned. I also feel they got the price level wrong, it was never cheap. £170 back in 1973-4 was more than twice an LP12, more than a Quad 33/303, and I’d have to check, but I think you could get at least one ESL for that, maybe even a Tannoy.