NAKAMICHI BX-150

Pre owned. In good condition. Shows slight signs of wear. Original packaging not included.

The Nakamichi BX-150 is a true expression of the golden era of cassette decks, produced between 1984 and 1985 as the flagship model of the BX series in its most essential configuration, focused on sound quality. It was designed to replace the BX-2 and remained in production for a relatively short period, later succeeded by the VX-125, a slightly simplified version, reflecting how carefully engineered and ambitious the BX-150 was considered.

The design emphasizes a refined mechanical structure, drawing on the know-how developed in Nakamichi’s high-end models, with particular attention to reducing flutter and micro-vibrations from rotating components that could affect tape stability. The system uses a single-capstan mechanism with belt drive and three motors, selected for high rotational precision, a key factor in minimizing irregularities typical of this design. The pulleys are made of metal with extremely high circular precision, ensuring smooth power transmission without unwanted vibrations.

The mechanism features a microprocessor-controlled “silent” system, replacing traditional solenoids with a dedicated motor that drives the control cams for the heads and brakes. The operation is quiet, fast, and precise: during playback startup, the head moves quickly at first, then slows just before contacting the tape, reducing wear and maintaining alignment over time. Function control is managed by a cam system that generates digital signals processed by a 4-bit microprocessor, accurately handling the deck’s various operating modes.

The BX-150 uses a two-head configuration with an RP-2D record/playback head in laminated sendust, a high magnetic flux-density material that allows extended reproduction up to the upper limits of the audio range. Gap precision is ensured through computer-controlled assembly, and the hyperbolic contact surface reduces low-frequency irregularities during playback. The E-2D double-gap erase head uses a high-performance ferrite core for excellent erasure, even with high-coercivity metal tapes.

The electronics are designed for linearity and low distortion. Both recording and playback equalizer circuits use a Double NF configuration, applying feedback to critical components to reduce distortion and precisely compensate for head losses according to theoretical values. Amplification stages employ low-noise op-amps and transistors, providing wide dynamic range and clean signal reproduction. The bias circuit is optimized for stable, low-distortion oscillation, preventing irregularities during recording.

The deck integrates Dolby B and C noise reduction for cleaner, more detailed playback and includes an MPX filter to remove the 19 kHz FM pilot tone, preventing interference with the Dolby circuit. Tape compatibility with Normal, CrO₂, and Metal types is managed via a three-position selector, along with 120 μs / 70 μs equalization selection.

The user interface is complete and functional. The deck features LED peak meters ranging from -30 dB to +7 dB for precise level monitoring, a four-digit digital tape counter with positive and negative counting, and a memory stop function to automatically halt the tape at zero. Auto repeat allows automatic playback from tape start to end or from zero to end. Recording can be controlled via a one-touch rec/pause system for simplified operation. A dual-speed master fader enables automatic fade-in and fade-out over 2 or 4 seconds, and timer rec/play allows scheduled recording or playback with an external timer.

The front panel provides independent recording level controls for left and right channels, output volume adjustment, and a headphone jack with adjustable level, making the BX-150 a versatile tool for both listening and precise recording.

Technical specifications:

• Type: 2-head compact cassette deck; 4-track, 2-channel stereo
• Tape speed: 4.8 cm/s
• Heads: 1 x record/playback; 1 x erase
• Motors: 1 x reel; 1 x capstan
• Tape types supported: Type I; CrO₂; Metal
• Noise reduction: Dolby B; Dolby C
• Frequency response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz (Metal tape)
• Signal-to-noise ratio: 68 dB (Dolby C)
• Input: 50 mV (line)
• Output: 0.5 V (line)
• Dimensions (W x H x D): 430 x 110 x 250 mm
• Weight: 5.5 kg