Sansui SC-1110 (1978–1979)

A stereo cassette deck from the late 1970s with Dolby B noise reduction and a reputation for solid audio reproduction.

Overview

The Sansui SC-1110 is a stereo cassette deck manufactured in Japan between 1978 and 1979. It was designed for high-fidelity audio playback and recording, featuring a Dolby B noise reduction system and compatibility with both Fe₂O₃ and CrO₂ tape types. Known for its straightforward circuit design and durable mechanical layout, the SC-1110 has gained attention among cassette enthusiasts as a reliable machine suitable for restoration. It shares design lineage with the Sansui SC-1100, part of the same product series.

Specifications

Track System	4 track, 2 channel stereo
Tape Speed	4.8 cm/sec
Wow and Flutter	<0.08% WRMS
Frequency Response (Fe₂O₃ tape)	30 Hz - 13,000 Hz (±3dB)
Frequency Response (CrO₂ tape)	30 Hz - 16,000 Hz (±3dB)
Signal to Noise Ratio (CrO₂ tape, no Dolby)	Better than 54 dB (weighted)
Signal to Noise Ratio (CrO₂ tape, with Dolby, above 5 kHz)	Better than 64 dB
Heads	1 x Permalloy record/playback head, 1 x Ferrite erase head
Motors	1 x DC motor
Semiconductors	Transistors: 19, Diodes: 15, Zener Diodes: 1, Integrated Circuits: 2
Power Voltage	220 V, 240 V at 50 Hz
Power Consumption	13 W
Dimensions	160 mm (H) x 430 mm (W) x 302 mm (D)
Weight	6.8 kg
Connections	Line In: 70 mV / 100 kOhm; DIN In
Made in	Japan
Colour	Silver

Design

The SC-1110 features a simple signal path with three transistors and a single Dolby IC per audio channel, contributing to its clean audio performance. The circuit design is noted for its straightforward layout, with main boards coded G-1217 (Main Circuit Board), G-1218 (Power Supply), and G-1230 (Lead-in and Shut-off Circuit). It uses a Permalloy record/playback head and a ferrite erase head, driven by a single DC motor. A spark-canceling ceramic disc capacitor on the mains power switch is known to develop faults over time due to electrical stress.

Reception & Use

Users have praised the SC-1110 for its high-quality audio reproduction, with one noting the sound quality was compelling enough to justify a full restoration. It is regarded as nearly matching the performance of higher-end cassette decks and has been described as a simpler, more preferable playback option compared to complex models like the Akai GX-95. Its additional controls make it a strong candidate for use as a rugged playback-only machine.

Collectibility

The SC-1110 is often found with non-original record/playback heads, sometimes replaced with Pioneer units, and may show signs of poorly executed internal repairs. Common restoration issues include replacement of capacitors with Chinese equivalents, substitution of small-signal transistors, and LED replacements for original VU meter bulbs. Despite these challenges, detailed component replacement guides exist, supporting full restorations. The deck is considered desirable, with current listings for working units and original parts.