Sony TC-2200A

A high-grade stereo cassette deck from Sony featuring a closed-loop dual capstan system and FET-based amplification

Overview

The Sony TC-2200A is a stereo cassette deck priced at ¥46,800. Designed for high-fidelity audio recording and playback, it features a precision transport mechanism and advanced electronics for its era. It belongs to Sony's line of cassette decks aimed at serious audio enthusiasts.

Specifications

Tape speed	4.8cm/s
Available recording time	120 minutes round trip by C-120
Fast forward and rewind time	1 min 20 sec (at C-60)
Track system	4-track 2-channel stereo / mono
Recording bias frequency	85kHz
Total S/N	49dB
Overall strain rate	2%
Frequency characteristic	20 Hz ~ 18 kHz (Sony Chromicassette Used) 20 Hz ~ 16 kHz (General Tape Used)
Wow and flutter	0.1%
Input jack	Mic jack (2 systems) : Maximum sensitivity 0.2 mv / low impedance
Input jack	Line input jack (2 systems) : maximum sensitivity 0.06V/100k Ω
Input jack	Re-connector (input side) : 2.2k Ω
Output jack	Line output jacks (2 systems) : Reference output 0.775 V (100k Ω at optimum load)
Output jack	Load impedance 10k Ω or more
Output jack	Stereo headphone jack (1 system) : 8 Ω
Output jack	Recording and re-connector (output side) : 10k Ω
Semiconductor used	Transistor : 16 FET : 2 Diode : 7 pcs
Power	100 VAC, 50Hz/60Hz
Power consumption	12W
External dimensions	Width 400x Height 127x Depth 276 mm
Weight	6kg

Design

The TC-2200A uses a closed-loop dual capstan system for stable tape transport and a hysteresis synchronous motor with anti-vibration measures to ensure speed accuracy. It features Sony's proprietary F & F (ferrite & ferrite) head with a uniform black mirror finish on the head surface, and an FET preamplifier for low-noise signal processing. The deck includes a full auto-stop mechanism with a mechanical shut-off, a tape selector switch for compatibility with Sony Chromicassette (CrO₂), and a limiter recording method developed by Sony. The level meter has independent left/right lighting driven by a dedicated 2-transistor, 2-diode amplifier, and the headphone output offers two-level volume switching via a special amplifier.

Market

The Sony TC-2200A was originally priced at ¥46,800, approximately in 1972.

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