Portable tape recorders of the USSR. USSR cassette tape recorder: reliability, quality and nostalgia. The reel-to-reel tape recorder is the forerunner of the cassette recorder.
A cassette recorder is an electromechanical device. It is intended for recording various sounds, songs, concerts on magnetic media. They can be tape or wire, drums or disks, and others. Tape recorders are divided into sound recorders (those designed to record sound) and those that record video signals. The latter are called video recorders. This article provides information about cassette tape recorders in the USSR. What were they like?
Portable cassette recorder "Electronics-302"
This tape recorder was produced in the USSR until 1984. The main plant producing the device was Moscow TochMash. The USSR cassette recorder was designed for recording and playing sound using magnetic tape. Such tape was most often contained in special cassettes, which is how the device got its name.
The Elektronika-302 tape recorder is an improved model of the Elektronika-301, differing from its “ancestor” by slightly different slide controls and an improved appearance. The device was not so light, its weight was 3.5 kilograms, which did not stop Soviet youth from going crazy about it: after all, you could take the machine with you on a picnic and listen to your favorite songs for a long time.
Cassette recorder "Spring"
At the Kommunist plant in the early 70s of the last century, a good portable cassette recorder was prepared for production. However, for some reason they were in no hurry to start releasing it. And then, in 1971, the Zaporozhye Electrical Machine-Building Plant “Iskra” began producing a more simplified model called “Spring-305”. The following year, its successor, Vesna-306, was put into circulation. The first cassette tape recorders of the USSR “Spring-306” differed from their predecessors only in their two-speed tape, while the 305th model had a single-speed tape.
The advantages of “Spring” were the low current consumption of the motors, which made it possible to save electricity. Also, this tape recorder could switch the speed of the tape electrically. Thus, the mechanism of operation of the device was simplified. Also, in the “Spring” models, the tape drive mechanism worked better and more stable. The cassette recorder was so loved by Soviet residents that when going on a trip, they always took it with them. On hikes, on picnics and on the river, he accompanied his owners with cheerful and playful music.
Cassette recorder "Romantic"
This tape recorder acquired a cassette compartment only in the 80s. In those days, having such a device was considered very honorable: it was mainly used to listen to music in the yard. The owner of “Romantic” automatically became the star of the court; everyone wanted to be friends with him so that they could ask him to play their favorite song.
The very first cassette recorder in the USSR from this series was “Romantic-306”. This device weighed 4 kilograms 300 grams and was durable and reliable. But its successor, “Romantic-201-stereo,” already weighed 6.5 kg, but was distinguished by a very high-quality acoustic system. It was released into production in 1984. The last "Romantic" was released in 1993.
Reliable "Mayak"
Soviet cassette tape recorders "Mayak" rolled off the assembly line of the Kyiv plant of the same name. The Mayak-233-stereo model was very popular. Its production began in 1988. The model was distinguished by its beauty and convenience. The front panel of the device was made of thick aluminum, and the tape recorder had metal buttons. “Mayak” could boast of having a power amplifier, which made it possible to connect speakers to achieve acoustic sound. He could work with three types of tape, and when he finished listening to the tape, he automatically stopped.
Now there is a fashion to praise everything that happened in the Soviet Union. It got to the point that on one of the sites they posted pictures from Stalin’s book about tasty and healthy food, while the topic starter stubbornly argued that this is how Soviet people were fed in ordinary canteens. I remembered it for a long time. I remembered how in Soviet canteens semolina porridge was diluted with boiling water from the tap (not even boiled water), I remembered sticky “erasers”, which for some reason were called dumplings, I remember very well how as children we bought coffee concentrate with sugar and nibbled on it, as it was delicious The sweets were "strained", however, and the concentrate then disappeared. I also remember that Soviet food products put me in the hospital twice with dysentery and once with hepatitis. A similar situation occurred with Soviet electronics. Anyone who claims otherwise is simply lying. I had to not only use Soviet electronics, but also repair them and even design some things myself. Of course, there were successful and reliable specimens, but they were very rare.
Origin and elemental base
As a rule, everything that was developed and produced in the Soviet Union from consumer electronics was copied from Western models. The design, operating principle, and original developments were stolen. And this wouldn't be so bad if we could copy well. But the problem is that we made it all much worse, from shitty Soviet parts
Open the lid of this “Lighthouse” and look inside. Do you know what the largest board inside is? You'll never guess! This board switches modes (record, playback, rewind, stop, pause). Where on a foreign tape recorder one microcircuit is responsible for all this (hence the reliability), in the USSR tape recorders had huge circuit boards with a bunch of outdated parts. Please note that for examples I choose the most successful, best examples of Soviet electronics. And all sorts of things were released...
This is where we come close to the Soviet element base. Almost everyone has at least once asked the question: “Why is there a bunch of different radio components in a Soviet TV, but in an imported one, one medium-sized board is responsible for everything?” But this applies specifically to the Soviet element base. The amateur radio circuits of the same, for example, power amplifier were strikingly different from the circuit of a “store” power amplifier. Amateur radio circuits were compact and generally contained few radio components, unlike store-bought ones. Why is that? The answer is simple. Soviet radio components did not meet basic requirements. A radio amateur could choose the right one from a dozen identical parts; such a feint did not happen on the assembly line.
For example, a transistor (triode) has a lot of parameters. One of the main ones is the gain. If we take two similar transistors of Soviet and Japanese production, then for the Japanese one this parameter can be equal to 170-180. I was once lucky - they allowed me to disassemble a broken Japanese synthesizer for parts. The synthesizer was about 15 years old. Old by normal standards, but what was my surprise that half of the parts did not have Soviet analogues. They had not yet been invented in the USSR. Then I started measuring the gain of these old transistors from the synthesizer. It was in the range of 173-178. That is, within normal limits. For a similar Soviet transistor, reference books give gain limits of 40-180. If we measure the real gain of these Soviet transistors, the range will be 20-120. The discrepancy is six times and does not fall within the normal range at all. And I also came across transistors with a coefficient of 0. That is, it seems to be working, but does not amplify.
This is the kind of junk that Soviet electronics were assembled from. And the circuits were cumbersome, because it included multiple additional circuits and cascades designed to compensate for the low quality of Soviet radio components.
There is another interesting nuance here. All the best in the USSR went to the military, the average - to production, the remaining trash - to the sphere of public consumption.
An acquaintance bought a Cometa-212 tape recorder in 1987. A month later he brings it to me - a quiet sound on one channel. I dig around and find a problem - the electrolytic capacitor has dried out. Capacitors are another joke of the Soviet element base: outdated ones, with large sizes and low parameters, are produced by one plant for the entire USSR in Yerevan. Well, you understand. I'm looking at other parts of the tape recorder out of interest. The trend is this: the tape recorder was released in 1987, radio components were released in 1983, radio components were developed in 1969-1975. Imagine that you bought a computer, and inside it is a development from 18 years ago! Welcome to Sovok.
Radios
Perhaps the most successful direction in Soviet electronics. I remember with nostalgia such examples from Soviet industry as “VEF”, “Spidola”, “Riga” (all from the Baltic states), and “Okean-205” has been working for more than thirty years! You will say: “Aha! Here it is! So it wasn’t all so sad!” Alas, everything was sad. We had successful receivers only because they did not require modern radio components; they could be “made from what we had” without loss of quality.
I still remember the Ishim radio with respect. Such a hefty metal box! Its main advantage was that it received ranges that were inaccessible to ordinary receivers. Simply put, you could listen to the Voice of America without jammers. But "Ishim" was an industrial receiver, if not a military one. It was not sold in stores. It could only be stolen.
Vinyl players
Most people probably forgot that the main problem with Soviet players was that they “burned” discs. Somewhere around 1980, Soviet industry found a solution - they began to purchase the entire mechanism in Poland. That is, the result was a Polish turntable "Unitra" in a Soviet wooden case and with a Soviet corrector. This miracle was called "Vega-106". A characteristic feature: when playing a disc, one could only walk around the room on tiptoe, since with every careless step the needle began to jump across the record.
Towards the end of perestroika, around 1988, the Novosibirsk NPO distinguished itself and began producing decent turntables "Electronics". They had good mechanics and completely lacked electrolytic capacitors made in Yerevan. But this is perhaps the only case when Soviet technology came close to world standards.
Tape recorders
This is where there is freedom for the nostalgia of fans of the Soviet Union. And after all, we came across decent devices. I’m still nostalgic for “Kometa-202”, I’m simply touched by the sight of “Nota-M” (my copy fell from the third floor, the fall was slightly slowed down by tree branches, and after that it continued to work for many more years), I remember “Timbre” with respect. . However, I hasten to upset you. "Timbre" was still a professional tape recorder, and ordinary scoops could not buy it. The other tape recorders listed above are tube recorders. That is, we could “lick” more or less well from the West only when the elemental base, damn it, allowed it. What followed was mostly trash. There were some successful glimpses, for example, the ugly but quite reliable “Rostov-102”, the cute “Astra-110” (there was also an “Astra-111”, but I haven’t seen it in stores, only in the picture). Yes, perhaps that's all.
What about Olympus? - you ask. What can I say... Many of my friends had Olympus. And there were also eternal problems: non-identical sound in the channels, failure of the control system (remember one microcircuit in Japanese devices?), eternal clogging of the heads with dirt. And the point here is not at all about the Soviet tape. I bought myself "AKAI 636" here. The tape recorder is 20 years old. I put on a Soviet reel, then another, a third... And what’s strange is that the head doesn’t get clogged, the tape mechanism is generally clean, the dirt from the film only spills onto the shelf in front of the tape recorder. So it's not just about the film.
As for Soviet electronics, I think that everything is clear to you. With rare exceptions, nothing worthwhile was produced in the USSR.
Audio cassettes in the USSR. How it was…
The appearance of audio cassettes and cassette recorders in the USSR occurred during my adolescence. It seemed that just recently I was saving on school lunches in order to buy an extra reel of tape, when audio cassettes, as well as battery-powered portable cassette recorders, burst onto the Soviet music market.
Philophonists, owners of good stationary reel-to-reel tape recorders, looked at the cassettes with contempt. This was a clear step back in terms of sound quality. But portable reel-to-reel cameras, for example, such as “Orbita-1”, “Comet-206”, etc., were buried overnight. And rightly so - they brought more anxiety to their owners than pleasure.
It's funny, but really high-quality portable cassette players never appeared in the Soviet industry. There were successful brands that buyers were hunting for. First of all, this is, of course, the Vesna line of cassette players. For their money, they provided decent sound in their class and fairly good reliability. Later, good clones of “Spring” appeared, such as “Rhythm” and especially “Sonata”. The “Electronics” line was also valued for its reliability, but no matter how many times I saw them, they all suffered from a dull sound when recording. However, we are not talking about tape recorders, but about cassettes.
On the territory of Sovk, one brand of audio cassettes reigned supreme - the Order of Lenin, Sutuloy’s medals, and the famous MK-60 cassettes. The name was simply deciphered - a tape cassette lasting 60 minutes. They were made on the basis of iron oxide, and their quality left much to be desired. They cost 4 rubles for one cassette. Occasionally, chromium-based cassettes came across; they were of noticeably higher quality and more expensive. However, the price did not play a role here, since I had to hold them in my hands, and even make recordings on them a couple of times at the request of the happy owners of these cassettes, but I have never seen them on sale.
RUN FOR HAPPINESS
However, you had to run around for ordinary MK-60 audio cassettes; they were sold freely in Soviet stores for only a short time. When I bought my first cassette player, I very quickly began to miss the only cassette that came with the tape recorder. I got out of it in the following way: during the week I went to the opening of the shopping center, and when the store doors opened, I ran to the counter.
Here we should explain why we run. The fact is that in the USSR there were not enough goods for everyone, and accordingly, the shortage gave rise to corruption (and widespread) in the sphere of trade. Remember Dima Semitsvetov from the film “Beware of the Car”, his role was brilliantly played by Andrei Mironov. This Dima made money by reselling the deficit. The film shows it in a simplistic way, but that's pretty much how it happened. When the goods arrived at the store’s warehouse, the store’s management and merchandiser decided where they could “move” the more expensive batch of goods, for example, to speculators. The remainder, if any, was shared by the sellers - the lowest link in the corruption chain. As for cassettes, directors and merchandisers disdained such trifles, sellers did not take much for themselves (only to all relatives and friends), there simply weren’t enough audio cassettes made. And yet, some things also passed on to buyers.
So!
1. Cassettes were not brought to the store every day.
2. Most Soviet citizens waited for the opening in the hope of getting hold of something more serious, for example, a color TV of a popular brand.
3. The doors in the store were usually opened strictly synchronously, so the defense should be kept at the door that is closer to the department where audio cassettes are sold.
4. You need to run fast.
This time I was lucky, I came in about tenth. Therefore, with all the 20 rubles I had, I bought five brand new MK-60 audio cassettes produced by Svema.
The cassettes didn't last long for me. Either the rollers in the cassettes were crooked, or the tape was cut unevenly... in general, after one or two listenings, the tape jammed in them. The cassettes had to be “kneaded” and tapped, but this did not always help. The solution was found as follows: the cassettes were disassembled (more precisely, they were broken lengthwise, since the Soviet industry glued halves of audio cassettes together, rather than twisting them with bolts, as is common throughout the world), small plates were inserted on the sides to increase the thickness of the cassettes, and then the audio cassettes were glued together with insulating tape. This tape looked creepy, but it still worked for some time.
But this was not the end of the low quality of Soviet audio cassettes. The film in the cassettes often “crumbled,” that is, the working layer crumbled and clogged the heads. The cassette began to creak. The audio cassette clamping mechanism often became deformed or even fell off. Then they tried to make it themselves, and sometimes they simply stuffed cotton wool instead.
DEMAGNETIZE ANNA GERMAN
The most important inconvenience of cassettes made in the USSR was that they were 60 minutes long, while music albums usually lasted 45 minutes, sometimes 90 minutes. Simply put, 60-minute cassettes were in no way suitable for the recordings needed. And considering that they were also in short supply...
Fortunately, ready-made cassettes with recordings were still sold in the USSR. Not the ones you could buy in recording studios, but the ones they sold in stores. These are MK-44 cassettes. Duration - 44 minutes. Usually they recorded the same songs that could be freely bought on gramophone records, but cheaper. And these cassettes themselves, due to recording, were more expensive than similar blank cassettes.
What did you have to do? And it’s very simple - in the absence of normal audio cassettes, these same cassettes with recordings were bought, the original phonogram was erased, and what was needed was recorded on top. These cassettes were almost always on sale, as they were reluctant to take them due to the relatively high price (meaning per minute of recording). These cassettes had one more advantage - they almost never jammed in tape recorders, apparently because they used less tape, or the tape was thicker.
It was all so Soviet-style: make a cassette, record music on it, make at least passable printing for it with a list of songs and put it on sale, so that the recording will then be erased and the list of songs crossed out. This is how the recordings of Anna German, Lev Leshchenko and numerous vocal and instrumental ensembles were recorded and then demagnetized en masse.
THANKS TO THE POLES FOR OUR HAPPY YOUTH
One fine day, the incredible happened - almost overnight, imported audio cassettes appeared in stores in the USSR. And what kind! The shelves were bursting with ninety-minute Sonjas and Denons. At first they were bought in whole blocks! They recorded only what was dearest and closest to the heart of the Soviet citizen - foreign music and Russian underground thieves. And then the Soviet MK-60 simply “died” for us. They stopped buying them. At all. When they realized that Japanese audio cassettes were serious and for a long time. Before this, imported audio cassettes could only be bought from speculators for 25 rubles per cassette. Now these cassettes were freely sold for 9 rubles. It turned out that it is easy to fight speculators, you just need to overcome the deficit.
Where did these audio cassettes come from on the territory of the USSR, and in such quantities? Oddly enough, I did not hear many rumors on this matter, as is usually the case, but only one, but from a variety of sources. And you know, I’m inclined to believe him, I think that’s how it was. Although let everyone draw their own conclusions. And that was the rumor.
Poland has traditionally purchased imported goods and in large quantities. But then the Solidarity trade union appeared, and strikes swept across the country, which significantly undermined the country’s economy. And then Poland turned to the leadership of the Soviet Union: “We signed a bunch of contracts here, ordered imported goods, but after all this we are not able to pay. Buy up our contracts." And the USSR helped fraternal socialist Poland. And a flood of imports poured into our homeland, including audio cassettes. I still remember the rows of American cigarettes in every grocery store. In music stores there are stacks of imported audio cassettes, for which there is no queue!!! Eight types of branded jeans in a haberdashery store and a stunned look from the saleswoman, as if saying: “How can this be? For what? How to live without deficit? She can be understood; entering a trade institute was more difficult and more prestigious than entering any technical university.
This is how the Polish proletariat fought for the happiness of the Soviet people.
Victor Zolotukhin
The "Electronics-Microconcert-Stereo" cassette player has been produced since the fall of 1984 by the Zelenograd Precision Engineering Plant. The model has a prototype in one of the Sony tape recorders. In 1984, the USSR did not have the necessary microcircuits and it was not possible to make a full-fledged tape recorder. We made a player using “loose” transistors like KT3129/3130. Later they developed the KF1407UD1 microcircuit, and then recording fit into the device. The 1985 model had a metal body. All subsequent ones are made of plastic. The model had a built-in microphone, which was intended for recording and for use as a hearing aid, including simultaneously with playing cassettes.
The children's cassette tape recorder-toy "Volna" has been produced by the Saratov Production Association "Korpus" since 1985. The tape recorder is designed to play sound phonograms recorded at a speed of 4.76 cm/s on a magnetic tape 3.81 mm wide placed in an MK-60 cassette for the purpose of organizing various games, developing musical abilities in children and developing practical skills in handling complex technical products. The toy is intended for children aged 8 years and older. The toy provides electrical playback via LV for connecting household equipment. The toy works in stationary conditions, in motion, in carrying and transportation. The supply voltage from type A-343 batteries is 6.3...9 V. The speed of the magnetic tape is 4.76 cm/s. The operating frequency range at the linear output is 100...10000 Hz. Rated output power 0.5 W. Battery life is 10 hours. Dimensions of the toy are 280x212x80 mm. Weight of the toy with batteries and cassette is 2.1 kg.
The Proton-402MT cassette tape recorder-player has been produced by the Kharkov Proton Radio Plant since 1985. "Proton-402MT" is a two-speed, four-track tape recorder designed for playing ordinary music and speech phonograms and "Talking Book" phonograms for people with vision loss. The electrical circuit, design and design of the device, except for the track switch, the absence of a recording mode and the presence of a second speed of 2.38 cm/sec, are similar to the basic Proton-402 tape recorder. Read more about the tape recorder in its operating instructions.
The "Sonata-Mini" player was experimentally produced in 1985 by the Velikoluksk Production Association "Radiopribor". The player is designed to play phonograms from cassettes of the MK-60 type onto small-sized headphones. There is no information on the Nplayer, but on its basis, since 1987, the plant has been producing the Sonata P-421S tape recorder-player.
The portable cassette player "Electronics P-401C" has been produced by the Novovoronezh plant "Aliot" since 1985. "Electronics P-401S" is a portable stereo cassette player. The player is designed to play sound phonograms recorded on magnetic tape in the MK-60 cassette. Playback of phonograms is carried out on stereo headphones. The tape is rewinded only in the direction of movement. The player can be used on the move, when carrying and transporting. The operating time of the player from a set of 4 AA batteries is 3...4 hours. Belt speed 4.76 cm/sec. The detonation coefficient of the LPM is 0.5%. The output audio frequency range for stereo phones is 63...12500 Hz. Harmonic distortion 2.5%. Rated output power 2x5 mW. Current consumption 150 mA. The dimensions of the player are 154x90x38. Weight without elements 300 g. To expand the range of products, the plant simultaneously produced the “Electronics P-402S” player, which was completely similar to the one described.
The Jazz-4 toy tape recorder has been produced by the Saratov Precision Mechanics Plant since 1986. "Jazz" (PKP-4 Portable Cassette Player 4th model) is designed for playing phonograms recorded on magnetic tape in MK-60 cassettes in order to organize children's leisure time, develop their musical abilities and develop skills in handling complex household appliances . The model has performance at the level of 3rd class tape recorders. The range of reproduced frequencies at the linear output is 100...10000 Hz, in terms of sound pressure 150...8000 Hz. Rated output power 0.5 W. Powered by 6 343 batteries or from the mains via an external power supply. Dimensions of the device are 260x173x72 mm. Weight with batteries and cassette 2.1 kg.
The Diana-Stereo cassette recorder-player has been produced by the Kazan Radio Components Plant since 1986. The tape recorder is designed to play mono or stereo music programs recorded on compact cassettes. The tape recorder provides separate volume control, tape rewinding in 2 directions, the possibility of short-term stops, connection to household amplifiers with speakers, electronic and mechanical hitchhiking, listening to cassettes on two pairs of stereo phones of the "TDS-13" type. The tape recorder is powered by 6 batteries and from the mains via an external power supply. Belt speed 4.76 cm/s. Detonation coefficient 0.4%. Output power 2x5 mW. Reproducible frequency range 63...12500 Hz. Power consumption from the network is 1 W. Relative noise and interference level 48 dB. The dimensions of the tape recorder are 170x100x40 mm. Weight without power supply 580 g.
Since the beginning of 1986, the cassette player "Duet-stereo PM-8101" has been produced by the Riga Radio Plant named after Popov. The "Duet PM-8101" cassette player is designed for individual listening to stereophonic phonograms recorded on standard cassettes on stereo headphones. The kit includes: cassette player "Duet PM-8101", stereo phones, battery container. The player is controlled by keys for playback, rewind (in both directions), and a tape type switch. When the magnetic tape in the tape cassette runs out or breaks, the power is automatically turned off. The range of reproduced frequencies is no longer 40...14000 Hz (Fe); nonlinear distortion factor 1%; Power is supplied from A-316 or A-373 batteries located in a special cassette. The dimensions of the player are 140x95x35 mm. Weight 500 gr. In the first releases of the player, the playback path was made on a large hybrid MS, and later on the K157UD2. Since 1986, the plant also planned to produce the "Duet-stereo ML-8101" radio tape recorder, consisting of an all-wave radio receiver, powerful amplifiers with an equalizer, two loudspeakers and a power supply from batteries and from the mains, combined in a common housing where a player was inserted into the middle connector " Duet-stereo PM-8101" thus forming a radio tape recorder, but without a recording function. The rated output power of the radio is 2x2 W. Sound pressure frequency range 100...10000 Hz.
The portable transistor radio tape recorder "Amfiton-MR" was produced by the Omsk plant named after IQ 1987. Karl Marx and Baku Radio Engineering Production Association. The "Amfiton-MR" radio tape recorder is used for receiving radio stations in the DV, SV bands, as well as for listening to mono and stereo (on stereo head phones) phonograms from compact cassettes. There is fast tape rewinding in both directions, and separate volume control when working on stereo phones. Powered by 6 A-316 elements or network via an external power supply. Sensitivity in the range DV - 2, SV - 1.5 mV/m; selectivity 30 dB; range of reproduced sound frequencies by sound pressure when receiving 315...3150 Hz; frequency range at the telephone output when listening to recordings from cassettes 63...12500 Hz; harmonic coefficient 5%; maximum output power 0.5 W; detonation coefficient ±0.5%; model dimensions 196x136x41mm, weight 0.8 kg. The price with stereo phones is 145 rubles. Since 1988, the design of the radio has been slightly changed. The radio was produced in a limited series, and in Baku as a piece.
Since 1987, the Amphiton stereo system has been produced by the Omsk ETZ Karl Marx. "Amfiton" is a portable block device consisting of MP "Amfiton-MS", AAS and BP. MP "Amfiton-MS" is a device that reproduces stereo and mono phonograms from compact cassettes to stereo phones and AAC. There is separate volume control and tape rewinding in two directions. Powered by six D-0.25 batteries or from the mains via an external power supply. Belt speed 4.76 cm/s; detonation coefficient 0.5%; frequency range 63...12500 Hz; noise level in the playback channel -44 dB, phone output power 2x2.5 mW; dimensions 138x337x88 mm; weight 0.5 kg. Price with phones and power supply - 120 rubles. "Amphiton AAS" consists of an amplifier combined with a left channel loudspeaker and a right channel loudspeaker. The AAS has volume and tone controls for bass and treble, and you can connect stereo phones to it. Powered by type 343 batteries and from the mains via a built-in power supply. AAS output power - 2x0.5 W; frequency range on the LP - 80...16000, sound pressure 150...10000 Hz; battery life 10 hours; dimensions 342x143x85 mm; weight 2.2 kg. Price 176 rubles. The Amfiton MS tape recorder was produced by several factories: the Leningrad Novator plant, the Lviv Lenin plant, the Saratov precision electromechanics plant and the Kamenets-Podolsk Elektropribor plant named after the 60th anniversary of the USSR.
Since the beginning of 1987, the cassette recorder-player "Sonata P-421S" has been produced by Velikoluksk PA "Radiopribor". Designed for playing phonograms from cassettes of the MK-60 type on small-sized headphones "TDS-13-1". The MP is powered by 4 elements of type A-316, with a continuous operating time of seven hours or more. The MP has a socket for connecting an external power source. At the end of the cassette, the auto-stop is automatically activated, turning off the "Start" key. The speed of the magnetic tape is 4.76 cm/sec. The range of reproduced sound frequencies is 63...12500 Hz. Output rated power 2x20 mW. MP dimensions - 142x95x37 mm. Weight 325 gr. Price 130 rubles. Using exactly the same electrical circuit, design and external design, an as yet unknown plant produced a cassette tape recorder-player, but under the name "Edelweiss P-421S".
The Vesna-212S stereo tape recorder-player was produced in 1988 in the amount of 10,229 copies by the Zaporozhye tape recorder plant "Vesna". The tape recorder-player in all its technical characteristics corresponds to the tape recorder of the same name "Vesna-212S" of the Zaprozhsky Electrical Machine-Building Plant "Iskra", but without the function of recording audio phonograms. Unfortunately, there is no other information on this model.
The children's toy tape recorder "Druzhok" has been produced by the Kamensk-Uralsky PSZ since the beginning of 1988. Designed for school-age children to acquire skills in handling household equipment, develop musical abilities and technical knowledge. Allows you to play phonograms recorded on compact cassettes MK-60. The tape recorder has 4 switch positions for the type of operation: playback, fast forward, stop and turn off, as well as tilting the lid and ejecting the cassette. The device operates from the network through an external power supply or from 6 343 batteries. Rated output power is 1 W. Frequency range 200...7000 Hz. Battery life is about 10 hours. Model dimensions 230x225x60 mm. Weight with batteries 1.5 kg. Price 60 rubles. Housing made of impact-resistant colored polystyrene. Since 1995, the plant has been producing the “Druzhok-M” toy tape recorder, however, in terms of design, design and design, it was no different from what was described.
The portable cassette player "Kvazar P-405S" has been produced by the Leningrad Production Association named after. M.I.Kalinina. "Kvazar P-405S" is a portable stereo cassette player designed for playing phonograms from MK-60, MK-90 cassettes on stereo head-mounted phones. The tape is rewinded only in the direction of movement. Operating time from a set of batteries is at least 3.5 hours. The player is powered from four A-316 elements or from an external source with a voltage of 4...6 V. The tape pulling speed is 4.76 cm/s. Detonation coefficient 0.45%. The range of reproduced frequencies is 63...12500 Hz. Harmonic distortion 2.5%. Rated output power 5x2 mW. Current consumption up to 150 mA. The player dimensions are 144x94x37 mm. Weight no more than 300 g.
The active stereo system and tape recorder "Saturn-401C" has been produced by the Omsk Electrotechnical Plant named after Karl Marx since 1988. The first releases were called "Saturn MS". Stereo system and tape recorder "Saturn-401S" (since 1989 "Saturn P-401S") - a miniature portable, block device, consisting of a tape recorder and an active speaker system with an external power supply. The tape recorder plays mono and stereo phonograms from MK-60 compact cassettes onto TDS-13 stereo phones or AAS. The player has separate volume control and fast tape rewinding in both directions. The player is powered by 6 batteries or from the mains via a power supply when working together with AAC. Belt speed 4.76 cm/s. Detonation coefficient 0.5%. Frequency range 63...10000 Hz. The output power of the phones is 2.5 mW. Power consumption from the network is 4 W. The player's dimensions are 138x337x88 mm. Weight 0.5 kg. AAC consists of an amplifier combined with a left channel loudspeaker and a right channel loudspeaker. The complex has volume and tone controls for bass and treble. Stereo phones can be connected to AAC. The complex is powered universally, from 343 elements or from the mains via a power supply. Rated output power of AAS is 2x0.5 W. The electrical range of reproduced frequencies of AAS is 80...16000 Hz. The frequency range reproduced by loudspeakers is 120...10000 Hz. Battery life is 10 hours. Dimensions of AAS 342x143x85 mm. Weight 2.2 kg. In addition to the complex, the plant produced a “Saturn-T-201C” tuner, which could be used to replace a tape recorder by removing it and inserting the tuner, or to use it independently, receiving VHF stereo programs on stereo phones.
The toy tape recorder "Volna" was produced by the Saratov Production Association "Korpus" from the first quarter of 1989. "Volna" is a modernized version of the "Volna" model, produced since 1985. By email in diagrams it is sometimes referred to as “Volna-M”, although the diagrams of both models are the same. The new model is designed to play through the built-in speaker phonograms recorded at a speed of 4.76 cm/s on a magnetic tape placed in an MK cassette for the purpose of organizing various games, developing musical abilities, as well as skills in handling complex technical products in children from 8 years old and older. Battery supply voltage 6.3...9 V. From an external DC source with a rated load current of at least 0.3 A - 6.3...10 V. Magnetic tape speed 4.76 ±3% cm/ sec. The operating frequency range at the linear output is 100...10000 Hz, at the loudspeaker 200...7000 Hz. Rated output power 0.5 W. The battery life of the toy tape recorder is at least 10 hours. Dimensions of the toy are 222x205x75 mm. Its weight with batteries and cassette is 2.2 kg.
The "Diana P-406S" stereo cassette player has been produced by the Kazan NPO "Elecon" since the first quarter of 1989. The stereo cassette player "Diana P-406S" is designed for playing magnetic phonograms placed in MK cassettes. The model has the following functions: playback of mono and stereophonic soundtracks, fast rewinding of the tape, adjusting the volume separately for each channel, turning off the engine at the end of the tape in the cassette, listening to soundtracks on two pairs of headphones. Nominal operating frequency range 63...12500 Hz. Power consumption when operating from the network through an external power supply is 5 W. Dimensions 170x100x40 mm. Weight 500 gr.
The Duet PM-8401 tape recorder has been produced by the Riga Radio Plant named after Popov since 1989. The "Duet PM-8401" cassette recorder-player is designed for individual listening to stereophonic phonograms recorded on MK-60 cassettes on headphones. The kit includes: cassette player, stereo phones, container for batteries type A-343 or A-373. Controls: playback keys, rewind in both directions, tape type switch; When the tape ends or breaks, the power is turned off automatically. Reproducible frequency range 40...14000 Hz (Fe2O3); distortion factor 1%; powered by AA batteries or A-343, A-373 through a container; Dimensions of the device are 140x95x35 mm. Weight 500 gr. The model name "Duet" implies listening to soundtracks on two pairs of phones.
The "Legend P-405T" digital cassette player has been produced by Arzamas Instrument-Making Software since 1989. A special digital two-speed four-track tape recorder designed for playing MF2-4 phonograms at a speed of 2.38 cm/s and musical phonograms at a speed of 4.76 cm/s through a LP and a loudspeaker. The model includes; volume control, treble tone, tape speed control, TM-4 headphone jack, jack for external devices and remote control cord. Powered by 6 343 elements and from the network via a power supply. Battery life is 10 hours. Speed adjustment range 2.38 cm/sec 0...50%. Frequency range at speed 2.38 cm/s 125...5000 Hz; 4.76 cm/s 63...10000 Hz. Output power 0.8 W. Dimensions 265x175x85 mm. Weight 2.3 kg.
The Nerl P-411S cassette player has been produced by the Vladimir TochMash Production Association since the first quarter of 1989. The stereo cassette player "Nerl P-411S" is designed for playing phonograms from MK cassettes onto 2 pairs of small-sized headphones. Power is supplied from four A-316 elements, continuous operation time is up to 10 hours. The player has a jack for connecting an external power source. The CP has fast rewinding of the tape in the playback direction. The range of reproduced sound frequencies is 63...12500 Hz. Output rated power 2x20 mW. The player's dimensions are 144x94x37 mm. Weight - 350 gr. The price of the player "Nerl P-411S" with one pair of stereo headphones is 120 rubles.
The stereo cassette player "Romantika-6601-stereo" has been produced by the Kharkov Instrument-Making Plant named after. T.G. Shevchenko. ""Romantika-6601"" household wearable stereo cassette player. It is intended for playing phonograms placed in MK-60, MK-90 cassettes. The device has the following functions: playback of mono and stereophonic soundtracks, general volume control, listening to soundtracks on stereo headphones. Reproducible frequency range 63...12500 Hz. The dimensions of the player are 170x100x40 mm. Weight 500 gr. The player does not have a tape rewind function. A special feature of the player is that the pressure roller and playback head are located in the top cover.
The children's tape recorder-player "Junior" was produced by the Ryazan Instrument Plant in the first quarter of 1989. The children's cassette recorder-player "Junior" plays phonograms recorded on MK-60 cassettes. The device can be used for experiments in the process of technical creativity of children. The LPM in the device is used from the Rus-207-stereo tape recorder. Powered by six elements of type A-343. The tape pulling speed is 4.76 cm/s. Rated output power 0.5 W. Dimensions of the device are 230x155x60 mm. Its weight is 1.3 kg. Price 60 rubles. In 1991, the plant began producing the “Junior-M” tape recorder with a design similar to that described, but with a recording function.
The Amfiton P-401S stereo tape recorder-player has been produced since the beginning of 1990 by the Kamenets-Podolsk Elektropribor plant. "Amfiton P-401" is a portable block device consisting of MP "Amfiton-P-401S", AAS and BP. In terms of parameters, layout and design, the device is similar to the Amphiton MS model.
The portable cassette recorder-player "Vega P-410S" has been produced by the Berdsk Production Association "Vega" since the beginning of 1990. The Vega P-410S stereo cassette tape recorder is designed for high-quality playback of phonograms from cassettes of the MK-60 or MK-90 type onto small-sized headphones of the TDS-13-1 type or the like. The tape recorder-player is powered by three elements of type A-316, and the continuous operation time is 7...10 hours or more. The tape recorder has a socket for connecting an external power source. At the end of the cassette, the auto-stop is automatically activated, turning off the “Start” key. Unlike other similar models, in the M-P "Vega P-410S" fast rewinding of the tape is possible in both directions. The speed of the magnetic tape is 4.76 cm/sec. The range of effectively reproduced sound frequencies is 63...12500 Hz. Output rated power 2x20 mW, maximum 2x50 mW. Dimensions of the tape recorder-player - 140x95x38 mm. Weight 320 gr. Retail price - 185 rubles.
The “Karpaty P-402S” cassette recorder-player has been produced by the Ivano-Frankivsk Production Association “Karpaty” since the beginning of 1990. The MP is similar in design and design to the Amfiton P-402S MP and was produced to increase the range of software products. The MP is intended for listening to phonograms recorded on MK-60 or MK-90 cassettes on stereo headphones or the included amplifier unit with speaker systems.
The Lota-Stereo cassette recorder-player has been produced by the Novopolotsk Izmeritel plant since 1990. MP "Lota-Stereo" is intended for stereophonic playback of phonograms recorded on a magnetic tape placed in an MK-60 cassette for the purpose of organizing games, developing children's musical abilities, and practical skills in handling complex technical products. The toy is intended for children aged 8 years and older. The operating frequency range for sound pressure is 100...10000 Hz. Rated output power from batteries is 0.3 W, from mains 0.7 W. The detonation coefficient of the LPM is 0.5%. Dimensions of the player block - 200x110x120 mm, speakers - 120x135x105 mm. The mass of the unit is 1.8, one speaker is 0.6 kg.
Since the beginning of 1991, the Argo P-401S cassette recorder-player has been produced by the Leningrad Central Research and Production Association "Leninets". The Argo P-401S stereo cassette recorder-player is designed for playing back soundtracks recorded on MK-60 cassettes and listening to them through stereo headphones. The operation of the tape recorder is ensured when powered: from the mains via a power supply; from a set of batteries D-0.26D. The tape recorder provides: playback and listening to recordings via phones; rewinding the tape in both directions; separate volume control by channel; battery charge when operating from the network. Continuous operation time from a set of charged batteries is 2.5 hours. Technical characteristics: Power consumption from the network 3.5 W. Belt speed 4.76 cm/sec. Detonation ±0.6%. Frequency range of playback 63...10000 Hz. Harmonic distortion 5%. The signal-to-noise ratio in the playback channel is -40 dB. The rewind time of the magnetic tape in the MK-60 cassette is no more than 180 seconds. MP weight with batteries 0.6 kg. PSU weight - 0.3 kg. Dimensions MP - 119x138x37 mm, BP - 63x107x85 mm.
The Berestye P-402S cassette recorder-player has been produced by the Brest Radio Engineering Plant since 1991. Designed for listening to phonograms recorded on MK-60 or MK-90 cassettes on stereo headphones or on the included amplifier unit with speaker systems.
Since the fall of 1991, the Vesna P-404S stereophonic player has been produced by the Zaporozhye Electrical Machine-Building Plant Iskra. "Spring P-404S" is a portable, small-sized, single-speed, stereo cassette player. It is designed for playing mono and stereophonic phonograms recorded on magnetic tape in cassettes of the MK-60 (90) type. Playback of phonograms is carried out on stereo headphones. Rewinding in the direction of movement of the magnetic tape with fixation. The player can be used in any conditions, including while driving. The operating time of the player from a set of fresh batteries (2 AA cells) is at least 6 hours. The speed of the magnetic tape is 4.76 cm/sec. The detonation coefficient of the LPM is 0.5%. The operating range of audio frequencies at the output for stereo phones is 63...12500 Hz. Harmonic coefficient no more than 2.5%. Rated output power 2x5 mW. Current consumption is no more than 120 mA. The dimensions of the player are 154x90x38. Weight without batteries ~ 300 grams.
The “Debut” portable cassette recorder-player has been produced by the Kostroma Electromechanical Plant since 1991. It is designed to play phonograms from MK-60 cassettes. The model provides the following operational conveniences: rewinding the tape forward, stopping the movement of the tape, ejecting the cassette, separate volume control for each channel. It is possible to listen to soundtracks through stereo phones. There is a device for electronic stereo expansion. Belt speed 4.76 cm/s; LPM detonation coefficient ± 0.5%; range of reproduced sound frequencies on the LP - 63...12500 Hz; reproduced by loudspeakers - 150...7000 Hz; rated output power 2x0.75 W, maximum 2x1.5 W; Dimensions of the model are 342x116x89 mm, weight with batteries is 1.85 kg. Price 110 rubles. Later, probably since 1993, the power button was moved to the general LPM keys and an LED power indicator appeared.
The Sanda P-401S cassette recorder-player has been produced by the Mari Machine-Building Plant since 1991. "Sanda P-401S" is a portable stereo tape recorder-player with a supply voltage of 3 V. It allows you to listen to phonograms on cassettes of the MK-60 type, with the connection of 2 pairs of stereo telephones. The MP can also be connected to the amplifier of any radio device. The MP is powered from an autonomous power source (two A-316 elements), or from the network through a power supply with an output voltage of 3 V and a current of 0.6 A, which is included in the kit. The operating time from one fresh set of elements is at least 3 hours. Main characteristics of MP: Tape pulling speed 4.76 cm/s; reproduced frequency range 63...10000 Hz; detonation coefficient no more than ± 0.4%; THD 1%; MP external dimensions -150x107x38 mm; weight 150 g.
The Yauza P-401S stereo cassette player was produced from the first quarter of 1991 by the Moscow Electromechanical Plant No. 1. It is designed for playing magnetic phonograms through external active speakers. In addition, the player provides tape rewinding in both directions and a “rollback” mode, which is convenient when transcribing voice recordings. The SP has the ability to remove the cassette without pressing the “stop” button while maintaining the operating mode, light indication of the operating mode, illumination of the cassette receiver, volume control in each channel. In addition, electronic pseudo-touch control of the operating modes of the CVL from a wired remote control is provided. The joint venture can be powered from internal and external power supply. Detonation coefficient ±0.3%. Frequency range on LV 63...12000 Hz, AC 315...10000 Hz. Maximum output power 2x1 W. Power consumption from the network is 20 W. Dimensions of the joint venture - 140x114x150 mm, weight 2 kg.
The Vega P-420S stereo cassette tape recorder-player has been produced by Berdsk Production Association Vega since the first quarter of 1992. The MP is designed for playing phonograms from MK-60 or MK-90 cassettes onto small-sized headphones. Powered by two A-316 elements. The MP has a socket for external power. At the end of the tape and an attempt to clamp, the auto-stop with the "antirolling" function is activated, turning off the "Start" key. Rewinding is done in both directions. Belt speed 4.76 cm/sec. Reproducible frequency range 63...10000 Hz. Rated output power 2x50 mW. Dimensions 130x90x38 mm. Weight 300 gr.
The portable cassette player "Spring P-401C" was produced by the Zaporozhye Tape Recorder Plant in the first quarter of 1992. The MP is designed for playing mono and stereophonic phonograms recorded on magnetic tape in MK-60 cassettes. Playback of phonograms is carried out on stereo headphones. The tape is rewinded in the direction of movement. The operating time of the player from a set of fresh batteries (2 AA batteries) is at least 6 hours. Belt speed 4.76 cm/sec. Detonation coefficient 0.5%. The operating range of audio frequencies at the output of stereo phones is 63...12500 Hz. Harmonic distortion 2.5%. Rated output power 2x5 mW. Current consumption is no more than 120 mA. The dimensions of the player are 154x90x38. Weight without batteries 300 grams.
The Berestye RM-304S stereo cassette recorder was allegedly produced by the Brest Radio Engineering Plant since 1993. Designed for listening to phonograms recorded on cassettes MK-60 or MK-90 and radio stations in the VHF range (mono) on stereo headphones or on the included unit with speaker systems. The photo does not show the lid covering the cassette. Previously, when the equipment broke down, they most often looked for a craftsman to repair it, now there is an Honor Service Center, which will do an excellent job of repairing these popular smartphones.
The Legend P-305T typhlotechnical cassette recorder has been produced by Arzamas Instrument-Making Software since 1993. "Legend P-305T" is a special typhlotechnical (for the blind) cassette, two-speed, four-track monophonic tape recorder, designed for playing magnetic phonograms MF2-4 (talking book) at a speed of 2.38 cm/s and musical phonograms at a speed of 4, 76 cm/s via line output or loudspeaker. The tape recorder has a built-in VHF-FM radio receiver. There is no other information on the device.
Since 2000, the cassette player with radio receiver "Russia KP-708" has been produced by OJSC Chelyabinsk Radio Plant "Polyot". The player is designed for receiving radio stations in the VHF range and for playing stereophonic audio phonograms using magnetic tapes MK1 and MK2 in cassettes MK-60 or MK-90. Listening is carried out using stereophonic earphones or headphones. The player is powered from two A316 elements or from an external 3 V DC source or from an AC mains through the included remote power supply BPS-3/0.25.©
In those days, cassette tapes were extremely popular, although not everyone had high-end cassette decks. For many, this format is associated with simple, domestically produced portable tape recorders, on which they first heard Boney M, Arabesque and Modern Talking rewritten from a friend. However, these tape recorders are almost 40 years old; what can such primitive technology do after so much time? Will it fall apart in your hands or will it still play “like then”?
A short historical excursion and technical characteristics
Cassette tape recorders "Electronics-302/302-1/302-2/302-2M/302-3" were produced, respectively, from 1974, 1984, 1988, 1989 and 1990 by the Zelenograd plant "Tochmash", the Chisinau plant "Mezon" and Stavropol Radio Components Plant in Izobilny.
The Elektronika-302 tape recorder is designed for recording and playing back sound on magnetic tape in an MK-60 cassette. Developed on the basis of the unified model "Electronics-301", differing from it in the use of a 1GD-40 loudspeaker instead of 0.5GD-30, slider and angular volume and tone controls, and a more modern appearance. Rated output power - 0.8 W, operating frequency range 63...10,000 Hz.
Powered by 6 A-373 elements or 6 A-343 (in a cassette), and through a power supply inserted into the battery compartment and from an alternating current network. Model dimensions 315x225x90 mm, weight - 3.5 kg.
Due to claims from warranty workshops about the poor quality of slider regulators, the production of such models was discontinued. The tape recorder has undergone several modernizations over the 20-year production period: transistors and a microcircuit were installed in the ultrasonic unit, domestic and imported motors were used in the CVL, and the design changed. Sometimes tape recorders with different indices were released simultaneously...
Let's take a closer look
In our review we have an early version of the tape recorder, the year of manufacture is 1977, there are inscriptions in English on the front panel. The terminal is based on GT403B germanium transistors, the entire circuit is made in bulk. The motor is Japanese, with an external speed stabilization board.
I bought a copy, naturally, on Avito, but here is an important clarification: given that prices for such ones in good external and serviceable internal condition (as some write - after preventive maintenance) can easily reach the price for a pair of “S90”, it was decided to buy a non-working or semi-working one the device and put it in order, as long as it looks more or less intact and complete, the buttons shine like new, and the design is the most classic. Later revisions with a flimsy lid and a round cutout for the speaker are not suitable.
All main controls are located on the front panel; Below the cassette compartment there is a hole for adjusting the azimuth of the head, which, although it looks a little collective farm, but, in my opinion, is necessary for this device (especially when playing back good recordings made on serious equipment).
Rewinds, surprisingly, are fixed - apparently, this modification was also left over from one of the previous owners. Overall a nice bonus, the main thing is to press the “stop” button in time, otherwise the new tires can very quickly become unusable, since no hitchhiking is provided here.
There are four SG-5 connectors on the side: they are used for recording from external sources, connecting a microphone, outputting sound to an external speaker system, as well as for line output and for recording to another tape recorder.
The 220 V power supply is a black brick that is inserted into the battery compartment instead of batteries. A separate pair of terminals is used to connect to the tape recorder.
Complete power supply and the minimum required supply of batteries for using the tape recorder far from the outlet On the back of the case there is a protrusion for large “D” type batteries (also known as 373), in this revision of the tape recorder they are connected in series and installed directly into the case. In later ones, the protrusion was no longer there, and the batteries were placed in a separate block, which had similar dimensions to the power supply of the tape recorder, and the batteries had a smaller form factor - type “C” (then known as the 343 battery).
Restoration work
A quick inspection of the found specimen revealed a number of faults. The tape recorder showed signs of life, the background and engine noise could be heard from the speaker, but neither the capstan shaft nor the receiving unit was spinning. But replacing a belt is probably the most common malfunction, and by no means the most important. Its previous owner, far from electronics and radio engineering, bought it and another tape recorder secondhand. I paid a certain amount of money to restore it, but as they say, I didn’t get around to it. Well, never mind, such a valuable artifact will never be superfluous, and someone else will get its hands on it.
Later, during a detailed examination, in place of the belt, the remains of a rubber band for banknotes were found to be hardened. After replacing the belt, the pull somehow started spinning, but the problem was that instead of the sound from the cassette, nothing could be heard other than the hum of the engine. We try to send a signal to the linear input and hold down the P2K switch, and... lo and behold! The signal appeared, albeit relatively quiet.
Tape drive with new belt By checking the board, we find, at best, three dead electrolytic capacitors, but in order not to climb several times, we copy the values onto a piece of paper and change everything in a circle. There is an important clarification here: I highly do not recommend installing Chinese capacitors of particularly low capacity, especially isolation capacitors, in a universal amplifier. I ran out of normal ones of the required denomination, so I installed several of these. There were certain questions about the sound, but after replacing this misunderstanding with Nichicon and Jamicon, all questions disappeared - the sound improved noticeably.
Board after replacing electrolytes And at the same time we will install a new universal head, fortunately there are many of them, and the price is cheap. I installed a mono head proudly labeled "JVC Japan", although I have some doubts about its Japanese origin. For a product of this class, I think it’s not critical; it will be better than what was originally there.
We solder everything that was poorly soldered, and these are at least some wires going to the side connectors and holding, as they say, “on the snot”, the contact of which disappeared due to the slightest change in their position, and one trimmer, which, apparently, Someone has already tried to solder it unsuccessfully. We clean and lubricate all switches and potentiometers, just in case. Until I wiped the MP1-1 with alcohol, it didn’t want to work properly.
About mechanics. At first I tried to build an elastic band for the winding unit from plumbing gaskets, but due to their poor quality I had to abandon this idea. I ordered an idler from Gennady from the “20th Century Radio Engineering” forum, dimensions: D 25.5 mm d 20.5 mm h 1.5 mm D1 24.5 mm d1 19.5 mm. The dimensions are very close to what was originally there, the only thing is that it is a bit tight to put on, and it would be good to check later that the rubber is seated evenly, and before all this, wipe off the stretch from the old rubber. I didn’t change the idlers for rewinding, it winds very quickly anyway.
Be sure to lubricate all the necessary parts of the broach, as shown in the diagram, and especially the outer metal part of the winding unit, which is in contact with the rubber idler. If this is not done, not only will the winding unit creak loudly, but the winding will also be very brutal, and as a result - detonation. Well, if you’re lucky, you might even stretch some cassette in the process. I used silicone grease SI-180, you don’t need very much of it, just a couple of drops on the rubbing parts, a little more on the winding unit.
The belts can be bought at the Quartz Store, but I am not at all satisfied with the quality of their belts - no matter how hard you adjust them, no matter how you adjust the trimmer, the detonation does not decrease. I probably took about five of them, and none of them fit properly, they were all crooked. But the counter belt from the Pioneer cassette deck fit perfectly, and the dimensions are suitable (105 x 1.2 x 1.2 mm).
An equally important part is the pressure roller: it also had to be replaced; in my device it became stiff and became oval instead of round. You won’t be able to achieve normal performance with this, so I got around it by replacing it with roller No. 53 from the Quartz Store; No. 54 should also work.
After this, we adjust the speed of the tape according to the test cassette with a frequency of 3150 Hz. An important clarification: the test cassette should not be too tight, Japanese cassettes from those years, or some cheap normal one, will work well. It is also important to pay attention to the spring of the winding unit; it should be tightened, but not too much. My detonation peak was no more than 0.35%, which is very good for this broach.
After all these machinations, the tape recorder began to produce something similar to sound. Half a turn with a screwdriver on the screw for adjusting the azimuth of the head, and high frequencies appear. The device sounds - you can use it for its intended purpose.
The device in operation
After pressing the “start” key, the device begins to play, and the warm, albeit slightly harsh, sound of germanium transistors flows from the speaker. But what else could you want from a speaker that was built into Soviet Rubin TVs and a host of other small-sized equipment? However, about sound - in the next section. 
After the restoration work, there are no complaints about the performance of the tape recorder; the design, although very primitive, is extremely repairable if the hands grow from the right place. The main thing is not to accidentally tear off all these tiny wires, and if they do come off, solder them back. Regarding the mechanical part, with the correct settings and the absence of factory defects, he did not even try to jam a single cassette (of course, with such a winding and new tires). And this is also when testing on the street, on the go, with a certain amount of sudden movements during operation. So the rumors that this tape recorder chews cassettes are rather a myth, nothing more. Another thing is that the operation of such a primitive tape drive needs to be understood and adjusted humanly, and the rubber will definitely require replacement over such a long period of time. 
The operating time from six D-type elements is about 15 hours. I note that I used GP rechargeable batteries with a capacity of 2200 mAh each. The tape recorder continues to work normally until the EMF of the power sources drops from nine volts to six, then (after 15 hours of operation), playing a little quieter with increased detonation, and in the process, and with a lower than necessary tape speed, it will somehow make sounds some sounds. In other words, the batteries are consumed mercilessly, especially in comparison with higher-class Japanese devices, but the circuitry is of a completely different level.
The dimensions and weight of the tape recorder are relatively small, due to this it is very convenient to carry it with you on the street, on a half-bent left hand, with your right hand switching modes and adjusting the volume level.
Listening
It is not recommended to listen to such a product near a large stereo system: apart from sharply negative ones, there may be no impressions at all. So we take the mafon out to a bench in the yard and take with us a friend and a couple of bottles of beer.
Collections from the eighties, classic rock (the main thing is not heavy metal, it’s mixed into a mess here), the Gaza Strip group, Soviet VIA and pop music may work well. Performers such as Arabesque, Boney M, Sandra, Modern Talking, “Veselye Rebyata”, “Forum”, “Mirage” are required to listen to.
The sound of this tape recorder in the background in the yard, or far from a large system as a whole does not cause disgust, unless you turn the volume knob more than normal. The sounds of this tape recorder, despite one speaker with a power of one watt, can produce quite loud sounds, and within a small room the ear will be hurt by the harsh presentation of the music and low detail.
However, considering that this is a simple monophonic tape recorder, high detail is not required from it. Its main advantages are, like “back then,” the ability to take it with you to barbecues, drinking parties, and walk down the street, so that “those” well-known melodies can be heard for some distance.
And it seems to me that the tape recorder copes with this task quite well. Compared to today's portable speakers, it looks unusual; at least you can put a cassette in it (even the second type - it will have more high frequencies). And its sound is much more emotional and lively than from a piece of plastic with 10 tiny Chinese speakers installed in it.
conclusions
“Electronics 302” is a familiar, iconic tape recorder from Soviet times. Its sound is quite suitable for a portable monophonic tape recorder, it doesn’t have enough stars in the sky, but even after proper prevention it does not cause disgust. It won’t ruin the cassettes like the plastic CVLs in Chinese balalaikas. If necessary, you can always find a second one and use it for spare parts to bring a better-preserved copy into working condition. The very fact that after so many years the tape recorder was so well preserved (both in cosmetic and technical condition) shows how efficiently and reliably the USSR was able to make even such simple low-class products.
Now, after the revival of vinyl, the cassette theme is also gaining momentum. In addition to large vintage Japanese ghettoblasters ala “Sharp”, it seems to me that small-sized wearable tape recorders should be no less popular, if only because they are much more convenient to use in a number of cases. In addition, there are events to which you cannot carry a large radio.
Advantages: Small dimensions and weight, good volume reserve, reliable and easy-to-maintain mechanics, the ability to connect an external speaker, record from a separate microphone or line output from another source. If necessary, in a fight, they can hit someone in the head, while the tape recorder continues to work, and the bully’s head begins to hurt badly
Flaws: No hitchhiking, no locking of rewinds “from the factory”, fairly large detonation (by the standards of high-end CVL), operating time on one set of batteries
Special thanks for your help in editing and designing this review.
In the 1980s, a tape recorder was the main attribute of a cool guy who could easily throw a party or take the equipment with him on a camping trip. With a “cassette player” you could go out into the yard or take a walk with friends around the area. “The cassette player” was the dream of all the boys of those years...
The tape recorder was a vital part of the non-state culture and non-state economy of the Soviet Union. State culture was conveyed through radio stations, Record televisions and Aurora telephones.
The tape recorder, thanks to the possibility of re-recording, distributed what was not released on records and was not heard on TV - from Vysotsky and Galich to Arkady Severny and Pink Floyd, covering the entire spectrum of music not covered by the Melodiya company.
Household appliances were not cheap. Not cheap - to put it mildly. The average Soviet family prepared for the purchase of a cassette recorder with no less trepidation than, say, for the birth of their first child. 
Money for a shabby cassette player was saved for months, during which all family members, without exception, were engaged in a painful process, which I once described with the strange word “look after.” This process boiled down to regular visits to radio stores.
Although, process is a slightly different word that defines all the action that unfolded in these stores. If you think about it, it was much easier for buyers of those years to make the right choice - the number of products offered at the same time never reached even a dozen.
Nevertheless, in the sales areas of stores, you could always and at any time meet a crowd of gloomy men who huddled around the counter, silently looking at angular radios, massive record players and cassette decks. 
As a rule, each of the men was mentally aimed at one or another product, which he came to look at every day. The whole process took 10-15 minutes, after which one “sort of buyer” was replaced by another. People came and went, but the crowd of curious people almost never thinned.
The seller dominated this exhibition of unfulfilled desires, of course. Salespeople in radio stores of those years were quite an interesting type: dressed in the latest fashion in hundred-ruble imported jeans, they radiated around them a charge of greatness, uniqueness and awareness of their own superiority over mere mortals.
Not paying any attention to the “stayers”, the seller majestically looked through the crowd, examining fragments of trolleybuses, grain vans and panel trucks, barely visible above people’s heads, steadily making their way along the city streets 
Of course, this was not always the case. Occasionally, the doors of the store were opened by yesterday's "stayer", and he did this not cautiously and ingratiatingly, as usual, but in a businesslike manner, confidently and proudly looking at those around him. And immediately everyone around understood that this person would definitely buy something now... 
Portable cassette monophonic tape recorder of the third class "Electronics-302"
Tape recorder "Electronics-302" produced until 1984. The main plant that produced this model was the Moscow TochMash. The Elektronika-302 tape recorder is designed for recording and playing back sound on a 3.81 mm wide magnetic tape placed in an MK-60 cassette.
It was developed on the basis of the unified model “Electronics-301”, differing from it by the use of a new dynamic head 1GD-40 instead of 0.5GD-30, slider volume and tone controls, and a more modern appearance. Due to claims from warranty workshops about the poor quality of the slider adjusters, they were soon replaced with conventional angle adjusters.
Over the years of production, the tape recorder has undergone many changes in the electrical circuit; transistors and a microcircuit were installed in the output stage of the amplifier, and the entire circuit was adjusted. 
Portable cassette recorders "Electronics-321" and "Electronics-322.
The tape recorders were developed on the basis of the tape transport mechanism of the Vesna-305 device. In the new tape recorders, the clutch drive of the receiving unit has been modernized, guide posts for small-sized cassettes and clamps for the magnetic head unit in the vertical direction have been installed.
The "321" series tape recorder uses a built-in electronic microphone, manual and automatic recording level adjustment, fine-compensated volume control, and a 1GD-40 type loudspeaker. 
Cassette tape recorders “Electronics-323/1” and “Electronics-324/1”.
Novovoronezh plant Aliot. 1981 and 1987 models
Household wearable monophonic cassette recorders "Electronics-323" and "Electronics-324"- designed for recording and playback of audio tracks in any conditions. The built-in mains power supply, autonomous power supply from batteries or a car battery makes the tape recorders universal in use. Among the service amenities, the models have an ARUZ and a signal output.
According to the electrical circuit and general design, the devices are the same, the only difference is the absence of a built-in microphone in the Elektronika-324 tape recorder. 
Portable tape recorder “Electronics-211 stereo”.
Novovoronezh plant "Aliot". Issued since 1983.
Portable stereo cassette recorder ""Electronics-211 stereo"" designed for recording or playing sound programs from a microphone, receiver, audio pickup, TV or other tape recorder.
It provides manual and automatic adjustment of the recording level, an auto-stop, a noise reduction device, separate tone controls, and a flax consumption meter.
you, two built-in microphones. 
Tape recorder "Electronics-311-S"
Novovoronezh plant "Aliot" - Production since 1977
Tape recorder "Electronics-311-S" provides tone control for high and low frequencies, automatic and manual control of the recording level of all inputs, a temporary pause in tape movement, erasing recordings, and the ability to visually and audibly control the recorded signal.
For high-quality listening and expanding the stereo base, the device is equipped with two external speaker systems. The tape recorder was produced in four configuration options: 1. With a power supply and a microphone. 2. Without power supply and microphone. 3. With a microphone but without a power supply. 4. Without power supply and microphone. In configuration No. 1, the price of the “Electronics-311S” tape recorder is 289 rubles. 
Portable cassette recorder "Spring-202"
Zaporozhye electrical machine-building plant Iskra. Serial production of the model began in 1977.
Second class monophonic cassette recorder "Spring-202" (UNM-12) Unlike the produced cassette tape recorders of the second and third classes, it has an increased output power of the low-frequency amplifier, a noise reduction system, and manual and automatic adjustment of the sound recording level.
Price - 200 rubles. 
Stereo cassette recorder "Spring-201-stereo".
Zaporozhye EMZ Iskra. Production of the model since 1977.
Record player "Spring-201-stereo" works on its own loudspeaker as monophonic, and on external speakers as stereophonic. The band of reproduced sound frequencies on external speakers is 63...10000 Hz. The rated output power of the amplifiers for their own speakers is 0.8 W, for remote speakers 2x3 W.
In anticipation of the 1980 Olympic Games, from the beginning of 1978 the attribute “Olympic” was added to the name of the tape recorder. The cost of the tape recorder has increased accordingly. Until 1978, the plastic case of the tape recorder was covered with decorative wood-like film on the sides and back at the top, and since 1978 it began to be produced only in plastic, with the addition of aluminum design. 
Portable cassette recorder "Spring-202-1"
Zaporozhye electrical machine-building plant Iskra. Production of the tape recorder began in 1983.
Cassette monophonic tape recorder ""Spring-202-1"" type UNM-12 has increased output power, noise reduction system, manual and automatic recording level adjustment. The level is controlled by a dial indicator, and the magnetic tape consumption is carried out by a three-decade mechanical counter.
The operating audio frequency range of the tape recorder is 63...12500 Hz. The tape recorder is powered by 6 373 elements.
Price 195 rubles. 
Portable cassette recorder 2nd class "Spring-207-stereo"
Zaporozhye electrical machine-building plant Iskra. Vol. 1982
The tape recorder has a switchable noise reduction system, automatic switching of the LPM to stop mode when the power is turned off and when the tape in the cassette runs out or due to a cassette malfunction.
There is automatic level adjustment when recording. There are peak overload indicators, an electret microphone, a magnetic tape consumption meter with a memory device, and a magnetic tape type switch.
The device is powered by 6 373, 7 A-343 batteries or from a 220 V network. via built-in rectifier. 
Second class stereo cassette tape recorder “Spring-211-stereo”. Zaporozhye electrical machine-building plant Iskra. Issued since 1978.
A tape recorder similar in appearance, design and parameters under the brand ""Russia-211-stereo"", produced since 1979 by the Chelyabinsk Production Association - "Flight".
The tape recorder was developed on the basis of the “Spring-201-stereo” model and differs from it in its external design and the presence of such operational amenities as; complete auto-stop, as well as control of the recording level using peak indicators on LEDs. There is a noise reduction device and a tape consumption counter.
The tape recorder can operate on the built-in loudspeaker "2GD-40" or on external loudspeakers "6AS-503", each of them has 2 heads of the 4GD-35 type. Powered by mains power or eight 373 elements. 
Portable cassette recorder "Spring M-212 S-4"
The production has been established since 1989 by the Zaporozhye Vesna tape recorder plant and the Iskra electrical machine-building plant.
The tape recorder was also called ""Spring-212-4S"" and ""Spring-212 S-4"". It allows you to record onto magnetic tape and play back music and speech programs from various sources of sound programs through the built-in speaker.
It has an auto-stop when the tape in the cassette runs out or is jammed, control of the recording level using dial indicators, as well as peak indicators, control of the supply voltage using a dial indicator, a switchable ARUZ system, a tape type switch, a three-decade tape consumption counter in the cassette, with a device memory, a switchable noise reduction system and a device for expanding the stereo base, improving sound quality. The tape recorder is powered by mains power or 8 373 elements.
Price 365 rub. 
Cassette stereo tape recorder "IZH-303-stereo"
Izhevsk Motor Plant (JSC Aksion). Issued since 1986.
In the tape recorder "IZH-303-stereo" Provides manual and automatic adjustment of the recording level, auto-stop when the tape in the cassette breaks or ends, there is a tape consumption meter with a memory device, dial indicators of the recording level, and a noise reduction system.
You can connect external speakers and TDS-9, TDS-6 headphones to the device. The power supply is universal: from 6 A343 Salyut-1 elements or from the mains. Rated output power - 2x1 W. The operating range of sound frequencies is 63...10000 Hz.
Price 285 rub. 
Portable cassette recorder on the substation "Elegy-301"
Voronezh plant Elektropribor. Issued since 1986.
In the tape recorder "Elegy-301" There is a built-in electret microphone, an ARUZ system, a switchable noise reduction system, and tone controls for low and high frequencies.
Using the same electrical circuit and design, but with a slightly different design of the front panel, tape recorders of the "Agidel-301" and "Legend-301" brands were produced by different factories in the country.
The price of the “Elegy-301” model is 184 rubles. 
Portable cassette recorder "Tom-303"
Tomsk Radio Engineering Plant. Serial production since 1982.
In the tape recorder "Tom-303" There is a switchable noise reduction device that allows you to reduce the noise level during playback.
The "Tom-303" tape recorder allows you to record and playback while moving, when carrying and during transportation. This ensures the preservation of basic electrical parameters and sound quality.
The tape recorder is powered from the mains, through the built-in power supply, or from batteries. Since 1985, the plant has produced the Tom M-303 tape recorder with a different front panel design and a wide range of case colors. 
Cassette tape recorder "Belarus-301"
Record player "Belarus-301" allows you to record phonograms from a microphone, receiver, TV, broadcast line, recorder, electric player or other tape recorder. The recording level is controlled using a dial indicator.
You can connect an external amplifier with a speaker system or a small-sized speaker system with a resistance of about 4 ohms to the tape recorder.
The range of recorded and reproduced frequencies is 63...10000 Hz. The rated output power when operating on an external speaker is 0.8 W. Duration of operation from a set of elements is 15 hours. Power consumption from the network is 5 W. 
Portable cassette recorder "Karpaty-202-1"
Prykarpattia radio plant. PA "Karpaty". Ivano-Frankivsk Tape recorder production has been established since 1977
Class 2 monophonic cassette recorder ""Karpaty-202-1"" (UNM-12) was produced simultaneously with the model "Spring-202-1" and according to its electrical circuit and design, nothing from
it is no different.
In turn, both tape recorders are a modernization of the “Vesna-202” and “Karpaty-202” tape recorders, differing from them only in the loudspeaker grille and minor changes in the electrical circuit. The range of audio frequencies of the tape recorder at the linear output is from 63 to 10000 Hz, and those reproduced by the loudspeaker are 100...10000 Hz.
The tape recorder is powered by six 373 elements. The rated output power of the amplifier is 1 W, the maximum is 2 W.
Price 200 rubles. 
Portable cassette recorder "Karpaty-205-1"
Prykarpattia radio plant. Production since 1987.
The tape recorder was produced on the basis of the model “Spring-205-1” and, with minor changes in the circuit, is completely similar to it. 
Cassette recorder "Parus-201-stereo"
Saratov plant "Banner of Labor". Production started in 1983.
Record player "Parus-201-stereo" has the following functions: recording and listening to stereo and mono programs through an external amplifier in stereo and mono modes, or through the built-in monitor speaker in mono mode; the ability to connect stereo phones and an external speaker or speaker; built-in noise suppressor; autostop of all modes; three-decade tape consumption counter.
The tape recorder has universal power supply: from a 220 volt network via a built-in power supply, from an external 12 volt DC source or from 8 A-343 elements. Frequency range: 40...14000 Hz; Maximum amplifier output power 2.5 W: 
Stereo cassette recorder - "Parus M-213S". Saratov plant "Banner of Labor". Production since 1991.
Record player "Sail M-213S" can work in a stand-alone version as a monophonic one for playing back soundtracks through its own built-in speaker, or in a stationary version as a stereophonic one with two speakers. The range of recorded and reproduced sound frequencies on chrome oxide magnetic tape is not less than 63...14000 Hz.
Rated output power for own speakers is 1 W, for external speakers 2x1 W, maximum output power is 2x3 W. 
Portable cassette recorder "Proton-401", "Proton-402" and "Proton-402MT". Kharkov radio plant "Proton" Production since 1980.
In the tape recorder "Proton-401", "Proton-402" and "Proton-402MT" ARUZ, auto-stop at the end of the tape in the cassette, a dial indicator of the recording level and a built-in microphone are provided. Powered by 6 A-373 elements and the network, in this case the output power doubles.
The device has an automatic recording level system, tape type switch, and high-frequency tone control. The range of operating audio frequencies at the linear output is 40...12500 Hz, at the loudspeaker 200...7000 Hz. Rated output power - 1.2 W.
Since the beginning of 1985, on the basis of this tape recorder, a two-speed, four-track tape recorder of the Proton-402MT type was produced. It is designed to play “Talking Book” phonograms for people with vision loss. The electrical circuit and design of the model, except for the track switch and the second speed - 2.38 cm/sec - are similar. 
Tape recorder "Proton M-412"
Kharkov radio plant Proton. MG production since 1988.
Portable cassette recorder class 4 "Proton M-412" assembled on transistors and microcircuits. It is intended for recording or playing back phonograms on magnetic tape A-4207-3B or similar in standard MK-60 cassettes. Number of recording tracks - 2.
The range of sound frequencies effectively recorded and reproduced through the LV is 63-10000 Hz, the frequency range reproduced by the internal loudspeaker 1GDSH-3 is 150...7000 Hz. The power supply is universal, from a 220 volt network or from 4 A343 elements. Rated output power 0.5 W. Power consumption from the network is 8 W.
The price of the model is 125 rubles. 
Portable cassette transistor tape recorder class 4 - “Legend-404” Arzamas Instrument-Making Plant named after. 50th anniversary of the USSR. Class of 1981
""Legend-404""- Class IV portable cassette recorder with universal power supply. The tape recorder can be used as a voice recorder. The range of recorded and reproduced sound frequencies at higher speeds is 63...10000 Hz, and at lower speeds 80...3150 Hz. Power supply voltage is 9 volts from 6 A-343 batteries or from the mains via a separate power supply.
The rated output power of the amplifier is 0.5 W, maximum 0.8 W. The tape recorder has a built-in electret microphone, an ARUZ system, connectors for installing a special radio cassette operating in the range of only LW or only MW and allowing you to turn the tape recorder into a radio tape recorder.
Since 1989, the tape recorder has been produced under the name "Legend M-404". In general, the model was a long-liver; production of the tape recorder was completed in March 1994.
The price of the tape recorder "Legend M-404" is 139 rubles. 
Portable stereo cassette recorders “Spring M-310S”, “Rus M-310S”, “Rus M-310-1S”, “Spring M-310S1”
Zaporozhye plant Iskra (“Spring M-310S”, “Spring M-310S-1”)
Ryazan Instrument Plant (Rus M-310S", "Rus M-310-1S")
Production of the M-310S models since 1987, M-310S-1 since 1990.
All tape recorders have the same design and are built on the basis of the " "Spring-310-stereo"". The difference is in the external design and minor changes in the electrical circuit.
The tape recorder has the ability to: automatically stop the tape recorder when the magnetic tape in the cassette runs out or the cassette malfunctions; automatic recording level adjustment; recording level control using peak indicators on LEDs; stereo balance adjustments; separate tone control for higher and lower frequencies; use of two types of magnetic tapes; automatic switching of tape type.
The noise reduction system reduces the level of noise during playback. Nutrition; from 6 elements 343 or from the AC mains via an external power supply. The cassette recorder is made of impact-resistant polystyrene. The set includes 2 cassettes of the "MK-60" type. 
Portable cassette recorder "Rus-207-stereo"
Ryazan State Instrument Plant. Serial production of the device began in 1985.
Cassette recorder ""Rus-207-stereo"", was produced on the basis of the “Spring-207stereo” model produced in 1982. Different factories of the USSR, according to the same design and electrical circuit then
Similar cassette recorders were produced with the names:
""Tarnair-207-stereo"" and ""Rhythm-203-stereo"".
Playback in monophonic mode through the built-in speaker, in stereophonic mode - through external UCU and external speakers Operating frequency range at the linear output - 40...14000 Hz, when using magnetic tape - A-4312-3B. The nominal output power of the speaker is 1 W, maximum 2 W.
Retail price 265 rubles 
Cassette tape recorder "Sonata-211"
Velikolukskoye PA Radiopribor. Released in 1980.
The model has an ARUZ and separate HF and LF tone controls, a tape consumption meter, and a dial indicator of the recording level
and power status, built-in electret microphone, pause mode. For the first time in domestic tape recorders of this class, a tape type switch was used, and the possibility of recording on chrome dioxide tape was provided. The tape recorder is equipped with a retractable carrying handle.
The speaker model has a 2GD-40 loudspeaker installed. You can connect an external speaker with a resistance of 4 Ohms to the device. Power is supplied from the mains, through a built-in stabilized power supply or from batteries.
Rated output power is 0.7 W, when operating from the mains or from a car battery 1.5 W. The operating frequency range at the linear output is 63...12500 Hz, when recording on chrome dioxide tape 63...14000 Hz. The frequency range reproduced through the loudspeaker is 100...10000 Hz. Power consumption from the network is 10 W.
Price 260 rubles. 
Portable stereo cassette recorder-set-top box “Sonata MP-213S”. Velikolukskoye PA Radiopribor. The production of the set-top box tape recorder began in 1989.
Stereo pre-line output set-top box tape recorder ""Sonata MP-213S"" designed for recording and playback of stereo and monophonic phonograms. In standalone mode, the model works with the built-in loudspeaker as monophonic, and with the connection of stereo phones or a stereo amplifier with speakers as stereophonic.
The tape recorder is powered from six A-343 elements, or from the mains through a built-in power supply. The first releases of tape recorders were called “Sonata-213-stereo” 
Cassette portable monophonic tape recorder - “Romantic-306”
Gorky plant named after Petrovsky. Model production since 1979.
The model was produced for a short time by the Petropavlovsk Plant named after. Kirov but without the index ""M"". The carrying handle was either rigid, made of duralumin and plastic, or like a shoulder strap.
Operating frequency range at the linear output is 63...10000 Hz, loudspeaker - 100...10000 Hz. Rated output power 0.5 W, maximum, when operating from the mains 4 W.
In 1985, the Petrovsky plant began production of a modernized model - "Romantic M-306-2"
