Sansui SC 5100 (1977–1979)
A Japanese-built stereo cassette deck from the late 1970s with Dolby B noise reduction and a 2-head design.
Overview
The Sansui SC-5100 is a stereo cassette deck produced between 1977 and 1979. It was manufactured in Japan and marketed as a high-fidelity audio component, part of Sansui’s lineup of cassette decks during the late 1970s. The unit features a 2-head configuration and supports tape types including Type I (FeCr), CrO2, and metal. It includes Dolby B noise reduction and operates at the standard tape speed of 4.8 cm/s.
Specifications
| Type | 2-head, single compact cassette deck |
| Track System | 4-track, 2-channel stereo |
| Tape Speed | 4.8 cm/s |
| Tape Type | type I, CrO2, Metal |
| Noise Reduction | B |
| Power consumption | 50 W |
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 480 x 198 x 317 mm |
| Weight | 12.5 kg |
| Made in | Japan |
| Color | Silver |
Design
The SC-5100 features Sansui’s Direct-O-Matic format, a system designed for simplified operation, along with a timer facility and Dolby FM recording capability, which allowed high-quality recording from FM broadcasts.
Market
Listings for the SC-5100 appear on eBay and Reverb, often noted as sold "for parts or repair." Replacement belts and recap services are available, indicating a modest presence in the vintage audio repair and restoration market.
eBay Listings
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