by John Culshaw
Soft Video's Underbelly
LAST MONTH, I dealt with what the trade calls the hardware of video, namely the equipment. Now I want to take a look at the software: the pre-recorded programs on video tape either available now in some countries or likely to be available in the near future.
My dictionary defines the word "soft" in fifteen ways, and quite a few of them seem very apt indeed when applied to prerecorded video music.
Thus we have "yielding to pressure" and "not sharply defined" and "weak" and "feeble" and-well, it would be unkind to go on. "Yielding to pres sure" is of course the unhappy experience of those companies that employ certain artists who will not raise a baton, put a finger on a keyboard, or scrape a bow on a string unless their efforts are recorded on video as well as audio tape. Even by now there must be a veritable mountain of such video tapes, and, although in some cases the costs have been partly amortized by sales on a limited-run basis to tele vision companies, the real bonanza is expected to come when they are offered to the public in cassette form. I wonder.
I wonder for more reasons than I have space to cover, so I will limit my self to fundamentals and use the word "video" in general to include cassettes, films, and discs. At the center of my doubts is what I can only call repeatability-just how often is one likely to want to see a musical performance over and over again? It's a fact that the eye has a stronger memory than the ear, though doubt less that statement could be put more precisely by a doctor; but the eye does remember, with astonishing precision, and what it remembers most are the very things you would most like to forget. It remembers an awkward gesture in the middle of "O patria mia"; it remembers trivialities that can arise as a result of careless editing. as when a conductor who has been seen in wide shot turning to his left is then seen in closeup turning to his right;
and it is ruthless in remembering false continuity as when a conductor is seen agonizing in closeup. his face covered in sweat and his hair disheveled, followed by a wide shot of the chorus, followed by another shot of the conductor whose hair is now immaculately in order and whose brow has been powdered until it is as dry as the desert.
Now you can argue that these are all faults of production and therefore capable of correction, which is quite true. Unfortunately, the eye's memory applies just as strongly to the good as it does to the bad, which inevitably brings in the law of diminishing re turns: That which knocked you out visually the first time 'round will not have quite the same impact on the second, and by the twelfth....
Yet there are some things all of us would like to preserve on the video shelf, given that the price is right.
There was a blazing performance of Tosco, Act II, given by Callas and Gobbi on commercial television in the U.K. some eighteen years ago; there was Stravinsky conducting the Firebird Suite in the Royal Festival Hall and giving an endearing wrong cue to the horns, captured by the cameras and recorded by the BBC, which also has a complete Peter Grimes conducted by Britten with Peter Pears in the role he created, and a costumed performance of Schubert's Winterreise. (The latter should be preserved not because I happen to have directed it, but simply because, in terms of musical performance. it is even better than the disc.) But a handful of goodies do not make a commercial proposition, and that is the problem.
Over the past fifteen years gigantic sums have been spent on tapings for the anticipated video market. Karajan has led the field with Beethoven and Brahms symphonies, Carmen, tell, and God knows what else; Bernstein has not been far behind. And factories in Germany pour out one catastrophic opera after another, presumably get ting some of the money back from German television while remaining ever hopeful for the great day when the entire population of New York storms the doors of Sam Goody's to buy that dreadful Meistersinger or the even more dreadful Freischbtz. I am not a professional prophet, but I can say with total conviction that that day will not come, and it will not come be cause, even leaving aside such major considerations as the poor quality of sound offered to a generation brought up to appreciate the values of fine sound, the product simply isn't good enough.
If from all this you reached the conclusion that I am saying there is no future for video, you would be wrong.
For a start, I believe that in ten to fifteen years a video recorder in the home will be as common as high fidelity equipment today. But notice that I wrote "recorder- rather than "player." I think there will be a market for certain kinds of prerecorded material--children's programs, teach-yourself programs, and other kinds of educational programs that are not too expensive to produce and therefore to sell, and in which the sound quality is not of paramount importance. But I predict that the machines will be used mostly for off-the-air taping: the movie you want to keep until you tire of it and decide to wipe the tape and use it for something else, or a documentary you might like to see again, or a sporting event, or indeed a musical occasion that happens to be televised.
The choice to store or wipe is then yours, the determining factor perhaps being the cost of a new blank tape.
Those who try to draw a parallel between the audio disc and prerecorded video are, I am convinced, working on a false premise, at least so far as music is concerned. Meanwhile, the number of stillborn video projects mounts every month, and the day of reckoning is still not at hand. Yet the true definition of software is staring us straight in the face: It is a blank tape.
ADs:
Beauty in sound. By Fuji.
Every Fuji cassette means beauty and purity in sound.
No hiss, no dropouts. Widest frequency response and dynamic range. Total reliability. Fuji high-fidelity cassettes such as the FX will give you the best performance possible on your tape recorder.
Already widely recognized by experts as the finest cassette in the world.
Fuji. The cassette of the pro.
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Akai receivers---Spread the word.
Howdy, pardner. I'm spreadin' the word about Akai receivers.
Them there Akai receivers sound as clear and sharp as a cowboy playin' his geetar by a prairie campfire.
Why, they sound so powerful good, it's like bein' right there! Just consider the Akai AA-1050.
It's got 50 watts per channel continuous output power at 8 ohms from 20 to 20,000 Hz with no more than 0.15% total harmonic distortion.
AKAI Ain't that an earful.
And Akai stereo receivers go for $200 to $900 suggested retail price. Nobody, I say nobody gives you more for the money.
So spread the word. Akai ! A right tine name in stereo receivers.
Akai America, Ltd., 2139 East Del Amo Boulevard, Compton, California 90220
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Technics
Waveform fidelity.
If you don't understand it, you could be making a $350 mistake.
Today a good amp and tuner can easily cost you $350, S500, $700 or even more. But no matter how much a component costs, if it doesn't have waveform fidelity, the music that's put into it won't be the music that comes out. And that's an expensive mistake to make.
It's also a mistake Technics won't let you make.
Because Technics' two new integrated amps, the SU-7600 and the SU-8600, as well as our two new timers, the ST-7600 and the ST-8600, have superb waveform fidelity.
With both tuners, the waveform being broad cast will be the waveform you'll receive, with virtually no distortion or cross modulation. Because both have flat group delay filters in the IF sections.
S.3 the time delay is constant for all frequencies.
There's also a Phase Locked Loop IC in the MPX sections. That's why, for example, with the top of our line, the ST-8600, you'll get stereo separation of 45dB Ft 1kHz and 35dB at 10kHz. And a frequency response that's as flat as it is wide, 20Hz to 18kHz (+ 0.2dB- 0.8dB).
And with an 8-ganged tuning capacitor (5 for FM and 3 for AM) and a Technics developed 4-pole MOS-FET, broadcasts with the ST-8600 will sound more like master tapes than FM.
You'll also find waveform fidelity in both amps.
Including our most powerful one, the SU-8600. With 73 watts per channel, minimum RMS, both channels driven into 8 ohms from 20Hz to 20kHz, with no more than 0.08% total harmonic distortion.
And the SU-8600 will stay 73 watts regardless of the power-hungry transient bursts found in many musical waveforms. The reasons: Six-fold independent power supplies for the control voltage and power amplifiers. The results: Virtually no transient cross talk distortion. And optimum waveform fidelity.
So before you make a $350 mistake, or an even more expensive one, listen to our new amps and tuners. Your Technics dealer has them. Along with Technics waveform fidelity.
Cabinetry is simulated wood.
Technics
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Nikko
Nikko's dedication and your patience are now rewarded.
The people at Nikko have a very unique philosophy about the way they produce and market audio products.
It starts with producing only state-of-the-art components, the testing of every unit before you buy it, a three-year parts and labor warranty and conservatively rating every specification. Only in this way do you reap the benefits of true performance. Nikko now presents its finest discrete matched components: the Alpha-1 dual channel power amplifier has a three-stage Darlington direct-coupled OCL pure complementary circuit, large electrolytic capacitors (33,000 mF), and a rack mount design with optional side panels.
A matching Beta-1 "FET" preamplifier features high-voltage FET circuitry, three-stage direct coupled with two-stage differential amplifier, and a number of useful features, including a phono impedance selector and tape monitor (play 1, play 2, dubbing 1 to 2, dubbing 2 to 1). Beta-1 is also provided in a rack mount design (shown stacked atop Alpha-1). Alpha-1 specifications Continuous power output of 220 watts per channel, both channels driven from 20 to 20kHz into 8 ohms with no more than 0.08% total harmonic distortion.
Intermodulation distortion Frequency response Input sensitivity impedance Signal-to nose ratio I H F Dimensions Price $599 95
See the warranty card with the product for full details The above prices are shown for informational purposes only Actual retail price will be set by the individual Nikko dealer at his option
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Discover why its price is deceptively low! There's quite a story behind the new Realistic STA-64.
It's packed with technological intrigue. Like phase-locked loop multiplex and an FET font end for sensational FM stereo.
And there's plenty of specs appeal for excitement. 16 watts per channel, minimum RMS at 8 ohms from 20-20,000 Hz with no more than 0.8% total harmonic distortion. "Classy" down to the last detail. Massive silvery panel, huge edge-I t dial, oversize meter. Precision controls for loudness, tape monitor, 11-step detented bass and treble, and an exclusive Quatravox synthesizer. Handsome walnut veneer cabinetry. A thriller you can see, hear, and feel. Sound expensive? Don't be deceived! The STA-64 has a surprise ending. It's only 239.95. FREE! Come in for your copy of our colorful 1977 catalog and see what's really new in electronics.
164 pages. 2000 items.
SOLD ONLY WHERE YOU SEE THIS SIGN:
Radio Shack--A TANDY COMPANY FORT WORTH, TEXAS 76107
OVER 5000 LOCATIONS IN NINE COUNTRIES
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In 1968,we introduced an unconventional loudspeaker system-the legendary Bose 901.
Now, we are introducing another new speaker-- a speaker unlike any ever before.
The Bose 901 Series III.
The life-like, spacious sound of the 901 Series III results from combining proven Bose concepts with unique new speaker technology.
The Bose 901 Series III is the most innovative new speaker since Bose startled the high fidelity world with the original Bose 901 eight years ago.
It is revolutionary in concept, design, materials, and manufacture, and most important, in performance.
What you will hear.
You will be struck by a sense of immediacy and presence.
Sound seems to originate from a stage in front of you that appears larger than the room, resulting in an open, spacious quality and an accurate stereo image almost anywhere.
in the room.
Equally startling is the real ism and accuracy with .which the 901 Series III reproduces the correct timbre of each instrument, from the subtle textures of the woodwinds through the incisiveness of the percussion instruments. In addition, each instrument is reproduced with such clarity and definition that you can easily follow a single instrument through even a very complex musical passage.
And at the low end of the frequency range, the 901 III produces the deepest bass notes with accuracy, clarity, and dynamic range clearly distinguishable from conventional speakers.
The heritage of the Bose 901 Series III.
In 1956, a university study began which totally redefined the criteria for the design and evaluation of loudspeakers.
That research led to the formation of Bose Corporation and, in 1968, to the introduction of the unconventional Bose 901.
The worldwide acclaim of both music lovers and critics of high-fidelity equipment has made the 901 a legend in the high-fidelity world.
Technical innovation.
Then, in 1972, Bose began to develop the 901 Series III, in order to realize even more fully the potential inherent in the concepts proven in the 901.
Two major advances are critical to the spectacular performance of the 901 Series III: the WI The unique, injection-molded Acoustic Matrix enclosure creates an equal-volume, semi-isolated air cell behind each driver Air flow from four cells mixes in this region.
Nine drivers are mounted in the Acoustic Matrix enclosure, four on each rear panel and one facing forward.
1976 Bose Corporation. Covered by patent rights issued and pending.
The clear Plexiglas speaker shown on the preceding page is for demonstration only.
Cabinets are walnut veneer construction.
Acoustic Matrix' enclosure and a new high-performance, high-efficiency driver.
The new Acoustic Matrix enclosure.
The Acoustic Matrix enclosure is a unique, molded structure which yields performance unattainable with a standard wood enclosure. The Acoustic Matrix enclosure creates nine, equal volume, semi
-isolated cells, one behind each driver, to provide a balance of coupling and isolation between drivers.
The enclosure also incorporates three Reactive Air Columns, which drastically reduce cone motion at low frequencies, allowing the 901 III to produce the lowest bass notes with clarity and accurate timbre readily distinguished from conventional speakers.
A new full-range driver.
The new 901 Series III full-range diver combines an ultra-high-efficiency aluminum helical voice coil, a unique injection-molded basket, and a high-efficiency magnet structure to achieve greater efficiency, smoother, more precise frequency response, and lower distortion than the previous 901 driver, an extraordinary A third Reactive Air Column radiates deep bass from the single front-facing driver.
Reflected and direct sound.
Third, the 901 III is a Direct/ Reflecting speaker. Instead of beaming sound directly at the listener, like a conventional direct-radiating speaker, the 901 III reflects most sound off the back and side walls of the listening room. This surrounds the listener with a combination of reflected and direct sound, just as n a live performance.
The resulting spacious, realistic sound contrasts to the harsh, "hi-fi" sound of conventional direct-radiating speakers.
Uniform acoustic power radiation.
Fourth, the 9C1 Series III speakers and equalizer are designed so that the total acoustic power radiated into the room (not just the energy radiated from the front of the speaker) is in correct balance at every frequency. This "uniform power radiation" design criterion, results in more accurate reproduction of instrumental timbre.
performer in its own right. In fact, the 901 III can produce the same loudness level with a 15-watt amplifier that previously required a 50-watt amplifier.
Proven concepts.
In addition to these important innovations, four critical design concepts first implemented in the original 901 are essential to the performance of the new 901 Series III.
Multiple, full-range drivers.
First, the 901 III employs nine matched full-range drivers instead of the conventional woofers and tweeters. As a result of the complex acoustic coupling of the nine drivers, the many small imperfections in response inherent in any speaker are averaged across all nine drivers, yielding clear, A concentric core, extending the full length of the Reactive Air Column, smooths air flow in the column, smooth response across the entire frequency range.
Active equalization.
Second, the 901 Series I system includes an active, equalizer, a compact electronic signal processor precise y programmed to automatically adjust, frequency by frequency, power input from the another to the speakers. The result is constant sound output though-out the frequency spectrum.
The equalizer also has high-frequency and midbass con tour controls which let the listener adjust the output of the speakers to the acoustics of the listening room.
The 901 Series Ill creates in a Ming room the high proportion of reflected sound experienced in a live performance.
A tapered Reactive Air Column radiates the lowest bass from the four drivers on each rear panel.
And, we submit, the finest speaker engineering and manufacturing capability in the world.
Over the years. Bose has developed manufacturing capabilities, facilities, and processes that are unique. We believe that no other speaker manufacturer could build a speaker of the precision and performance of the 901 Series III.
Building a second-generation driver.
The extraordinary performance demands placed on the 901 Series III loudspeaker system call for innovative approaches to both design and manufacturing of every component in the system.
The helical voice coil-a study in precision manufacturing.
For example, the voice coil is the heart of any driver. In a conventional voice coil, round copper wire is wound on a paper cylinder. Round wire leaves relatively large gaps between windings, resulting in poor utilization of energy in the magnetic field, and thus relatively poor efficiency in the speaker. In the 901 Series III helical voice coil, a flat ribbon of aluminum wire is precisely wound, on edge, on an aluminum core, leaving no gaps between windings, and helping make the 901 Series III driver more than three times as efficient as its predecessor.
Production of this high-precision voice coil was simply not possible using existing methods and equipment-so Bose developed new methods for flattening and insulating wire and a proprietary, computer-controlled winding process.
Similarly, the 901 III injection-molded plastic basket is far more precisely manufactured than a conventional steel basket, resulting in less magnetic leakage, a stronger structure, and tighter assembly tolerances.
A unique speaker construction technique.
Early in the 901-iii program it was clear that the complex enclosure needed to meet our design goals could not be built using conventional wood construction. Therefore, the decision was made to invest in the urge design effort and tooling cost to develop the injection-molded Acoustic Matrix enclosure. Each part of the Acoustic Matrix enclosure is precision injection molded from a high-strength plastic and then bonded into a strong, vibration free, airtight structure, using special bonding techniques developed by Bose engineers.
The Acoustic Matrix enclosure.
The result is a unique, highly functional enclosure that sets the 901 Series III far ahead of the performance limitations of woodworking technology.
Bose advanced quality control systems.
The sophisticated design of the Bose 901 Series III would be to no avail without equally advanced techniques for quality control on the production line.
The components of the 901 Series III loudspeaker system.
The Mountain, Framingham, Mass. 01701
Better sound through research.
For every critical performance characteristic of the speaker system. Bose has developed its own specialized test systems to provide a degree of quality control unmatched in the high-fidelity industry. In addition, the 901 Series III speakers and equalizer are covered by a full five-year warranty.
Your enjoyment.
In the end, technology is only of academic interest if the final product does not bring you closer to the experience of live music. With truly accurate music reproduction. you will have this experience, know it, and remember it, whether you are an audiophile, a musical connoisseur, or a novice. At such time, the thought of hi-fi and loudspeakers will be over shadowed by the music experience.
If we can produce a loud speaker that can accomplish this. that indeed is our ultimate pride. And we rest our reputation with the best we have to offer-the Bose 901 Series III.
To appreciate the spectacular performance of the Bose 901 Series III, visit an author ized Bose dealer and ask him to play the 901-III in comparison to any other speaker, regardless of size or price. For a full color, 16-page brochure on the 901 Series III, write:
Bose, Box PV32
The Mountain, Framingham, Mass. 01701.
If you are interested in more detailed technical background. enclose
$1.00 and you will also receive the 20-page 901 Series III owner's manual and a copy of Dr. Bose's articles "Sound Recording and Reproduction.”
reprinted from Technology Review.
For the name of the Bose dealer nearest you, call toll free (800) 447-4700. In Illinois, call (800) 322-4400.
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Introducing the B-I-C Electronic Drive 1000.
With two motors.
Electronic controls.
"Pause cueing."
Remote control.
And awaiting list a mile long.
Sorry about the waiting list, but when you see it you'll understand. Here you have a purist's tone arm and superb playback in a "bee eye cee" belt drive unit which we believe promises better long-run performance than a direct drive unit. At about $279, we think it's irresistible. See what you think at your high-fidelity dealer's. You'll find our 5 turntables folder there. Or write to British Industries Co., Dept. ID, Westbury, N.Y. 11590.
Turntables . 1976. British Industries Co., A Division of Avnet Inc.
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Meet Your Record Collections' New Best Friend
Fine recordings have many enemies. The moment a recording is taken from the jacket, it must face them- dust, dirt, grime. All do their best to turn your new recordings into old, worn- !r out ones. That's why Audiotex Laboratories developed Total Concept-specially formulated record care pro ducts for your record collection. Products designed to prolong the life of your records. So get acquainted with Total Concept. With all the dust, dirt, and grime that's around, your records need all the friends they can get.
Total Concept Kit
All the record maintenance accessories you need for total record care. Kit contains one each of Record Plus, Record Basic, Record Purifier and Blue Max.
Cat. No. 30-8500 Record Basic Aerosol loam dissolves hardened contaminants and restores records to original condition. Simply spray on record, allow to bubble, then wipe dry with Record Purifier.
Cat. No. 30-8530 Ill Record Plus Dual purpose spray dissolves finger smudges and other harmful de posits as well as lubricating record grooves to prevent wear. Leaves a microscopic layer at sili cone lubricant that contains an anti-static agent and fungus inhibitor.
Simply spray record, then gently wipe surface.
Cat. No. 30-8525
Record Purifier
Super-soft. super absorbent cleaning cloth.
Fibrous texture gently and safely wipes record surface dry--in an instant.
Plastic tube contains 6 Record Purifiers.
Cat. No. 30-8535 Total Concept Sophisticated record maintenance accessories, preferred by the discriminating listener.
Blue Max--Velous fibers remove dust and other foreign particles from record grooves as well as absorbing excess lubricating liquid.
May be used hand held or while record is on turntable. Comes complete with storage contain er and nylon brush for cleaning Blue Max.
Cat. No. 30-8540 Available At Audio Specialists Everywhere.
AL-- Audiotex Laboratories
DIVISION OF HYDROMETALS, INC.
400 SOUTH WYMAN STREET ROCKFORD, ILLINOIS 61101 U.S A.
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Hi-fi Harmony crown IC-150A D-150A
80 watts per channel min. RMS into 8 ohms (1 Hz-20 KHz), total harmonic distortion of .05%.
In any great vocal group, each singer could make it on his own. Together, they're beautiful.
That's how we designed the Crown IC-150A pre-amp and the Crown D-150A power amp.
The IC-150A provides precise control with minimum distortion. The D-150A provides reliable power* to drive almost any stereo speakers.
Each one could be a superb addition to your system.
But together we think they're incomparably beautiful, whether you think of beauty as powerful, clean sound; or honest, uncluttered appearance; or simple, accurate control.
If the receiver or integrated amp in your current system seems somehow limited, please consider seriously the Crown IC-150A/D-150A combination. You'll be pleased at a new quality of sound, and surprised at a real bargain.
Write us today for the name of a dealer near you. It could be the start of a harmonious relationship.
When listening becomes an art, crown Box 1000, Elkhart, IN 46514 USA.
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If you can see a difference, imagine what you'll hear.
4 Magnified, you can see record You're looking at the solution to one of the oldest problems in audio-how to protect records from wear, while at the same time preserving full fidelity.
It's called Sound Guard? and it's remarkable.
Independent tests show that discs treated with Sound II Record Preserv. 2 Fl Oz
vinyl wearing away.
With Sound Guard With same magnification, record vinyl shows no wear.
distortion as "mint condition" discs played once.
A by-product of dry lubricants developed for aerospace applications, Sound Guard preservative is so smooth it reduces friction, yet so thin (less than 0.000003") it leaves even the most fragile groove modulations unaffected.
Len Feldman in Radio Electronics reports "At last! The long awaited record-care product has arrived.
It preserves Sound Guard..
Record Preservation Kit frequency response Guard preservative played while reducing distortion and 100 times display the same surface noise:' It's effective and full amplitude at all frequencies and the same absence of old 78's to the newest LPs.
- safe for all discs, from precious
surface noise and harmonic Sound Guard preservative, in a kit complete with a non aerosol pump sprayer and L
Test record played first time.
components After 100 plays without Sound Guard.
Identical test record after 100 plays with Sound Guard.
velvet buffing pad, is avail able in audio and record outlets.
Sound Guard keeps your good sounds sounding good.
Sound Guard is Ball Corporation's registered trademark for its record preservative. Copyright Ball Corporation, 1977.
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In phase.
With Power.
The overhead. When timing is perfect, when power is synchronized with skill ... Smash! When timing is off, when power is misdirected . . . clunk.
In music. When sound is out of phase, jarring the ear with fractured time sequences, when the speaker is incapable of handling today's high power amplifiers . . clunk.
Conventional speaker systems combine sound from several positions on the cabinet's mounting baffle. When the lows and highs reach the ear at different times, however slight the difference, mt.sic is diffuse. It is out of phase.
The high and low frequency drivers of the Tannoy loudspeaker system are combined within a single massive magnetic core assembly.
Sound from both is reproduced from a common transducer matrix, phase coherent throughout the total audio range.
Tannoy systems have earned a world wide reputation for power handling capacity. (The Tannoy warning system at Dungeness lighthouse handles 7 kilowatts and can be heard a distance of 6 miles!) The Tannoy incorporates a horn loaded high frequency drive- and a unique, heat resistant voice coil assembly. The low frequency cone is reinforced by rigid structural ribs. The heavy magnet structure and frame function as an effective heat sink drawing off distortion-producing heat.
The prestigious British audiophile journal, "Gramophone", wrote "There can be no doubt that . . . the new range of Tannoy loudspeakers will be received with enthusiasm not only for excellent and effortless reproduction but also for pleasing new design." Music, anyone? If you write to us, we'll forward a list of the selected dealers of established reputation who will be pleased to provide a listening demonstration. We'll include a brochure with the details of each model in the Tannoy array of integrated loudspeaker systems. Tannoy, 122 Dupont Street, Plainview, N.Y. 11803.
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12XP monitors bring 'em back alive.
To accurately reproduce live music being recorded, studio engineers employ monitors with high efficiency, extreme clarity in midrange/high end, and tight bass.
Now you can experience the same lively performance and precise reproduction in your home system. With 12XP monitor speakers by American Monitor Company. The high power 12" woofer and 3" voice coil combine with the 4 1/2" midrange and two 2" micro-tweeters to produce studio quality sonic images. Packaged in a walnut cabinet 26" tall.
To bring your system's sound back alive, capture the 12XP at your franchised American Monitor Co. dealer.
AMERICAN MONITOR COMPANY
8116 Deering Ave.
Dept. HF
Canoga Park, CA 91304
Write for dealer list and specifications
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225,287 people already know listening is only hall the Fun
A classic
TEAC's A-2300SX is the latest version of a classic. The most reliable tape deck ever made. As of April 1976, more than 225,287 have been purchased. And they have the lowest incidence of repair and maintenance of any deck on the market today.
What is it about the A-2300SX that makes its performance and acceptance so remarkable?
Three motors
The A-2300SX features TEAC's heavy-duty, 3-motor transport system. Each reel has a motor to assure proper tape tension at all times. A third motor drives the capstan and was designed to allow electrical, instead of mechanical, speed change. No gears. No idlers.
Just dependable, smooth operation.
Fingertip control
With three motor transport you get the flexibility of touch button control. You can switch instantly from mode to mode-play, fast forward, rewind, pause and record.
With our new cue lever control, editing is made easy. Instant starts. No bounce. No click.
With one touch of the EQ and bias switch you adjust the machine to different types of recording tape.
Less noise. Less hiss. Better response.
Three heads
Each of the three basic functions-erase, record and playback-is assigned to a separate head. Each head is designed to perform its specific assignment, and to keep performing use after use.
These are some of the reasons so many TEAC tape recorders have been sold. Another reason is that so many people get tired of just listening to music.
Listening is fun, of course, but if you really want to enjoy your stereo system, try adding fun...
try adding a TEAC A-2300SX. Just remember, you won't be alone.
TEAC The leader. Always has been.
TEAC Corporation of America. 7733 Telegraph Road. Montebello, CA. 90644) r TEAC 1976 In Canada TEAC is distributed by White Electronic Development Corporation (1966) Ltd.
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Sennheiser presents the first stereo headphones that don’t keep you on a "leash"
Now. you can have all the enjoyment of stereo headphone listening in a pair of wireless headphones that let you move about with total freedom.
On first glance they re similar to our top-rated deluxe stereo headphones.
Which is no coincidence because they provide the same linear, wide-range response, superb transient capabilities and unparalleled comfort that made our HD 424 Open-Aire" headphones among the worlds most popular But the resemblance ends there: our wireless gets its
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INTRODUCING WIRELESS STEREO.
stereo signals via a beam of in visible light instead of a cable.
Audio from your receiver or amp is fed to a tiny self-contained transmitter with a built-in LED (light-emitting diode) array The two stereo signals (or if you wish two separate mono sources)
1976. Sennheiser Electronic Corporation (N Y )
... are superimposed on an invisible infra-red light beam that s dif fused throughout the room.
At the headphone, a special photocell and receiver pick up the light and recover the sound.
With power and versatility to ad just the volume for ear-shattering levels. balance channels even select between two mono sources for special applications.
With your eyes closed, you couldn't tell the difference be tween wireless and top-rated conventional Sennheiser models. But with your eyes open, you can change location, move about, even dance if you like.
Try them for yourself at your Sennheiser dealer's...or write for more information.
SENINHEISEIR ELECTRONIC CORPORATION 10 West 37th Street, New York 10018 (212) 239-0190
Manuf. Plant Bissendort Hannover. West Germany
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Our new CD-5200 has five LEDs to help stop distortion in your tracks.
That's four more than most other cassette decks.
The capability of eliminating distortion and noise from recordings is one of the major factors that distinguishes a run of the mill cassette deck from a JVC professional like the CD-S200.
One of the unique features of the CD-S200 is its LED peak level indicator system. Unlike most cassette decks on the market, the CD-S200 has five LED peak indicators. By simply watching the five flashing LEDs, you can set and adjust the sliding levers to perfect recording levels. This fail-safe system, which responds faster than VU meters, helps you eliminate the distortion that results when peak levels are exceeded. It also helps you to guard against noise when the input signal is too low. And when you hear the playback, you'll know it's as close as you can come to professional results outside a recording studio.
Then, to further assure top performance, JVC has developed for the CD-S200 its exclusive Sen-Alloy recording/playback head. Designed to exceed the capabilities of conventional perm-alloy and ferrite heads, it captures an exceptionally high frequency response with reduced distortion. And while it offers the extreme longevity of ferrite, it eliminates its major drawback. Noise.
5 LED peak level indicators help eliminate distortion.
REC LEVEL moat
Precise sliding recording level controls.
Long life Sen-Alloy head reduces distortion.
AIMS Simplified vertical cassette insertion.
ANRS ON OFF EC BIAS CrO2 TAR Fe-Cr A SELECT AL NORM/SF A.
Automatic Noise Reduction System reduces tape hiss.
3-posItion bias and EO switches for every type of tape.
Speaking of noise, the CD-S200 uses JVC highly effective ANRS switchable noise reduction system which minimizes tape hiss and improves signal-to-noise ratio.
While these features alone set the CD-S200 apart from conventional decks. JVC has also incorporated three-position bias and equalization switches for any tape on the market. And to protect your tape, there s an all-mode automatic tape-end stop system. There's even a novel and very handy automatic Start/Stop feature that lets you record with an electric timer when you're not there.
The JVC CD-S200 is an outstanding performer at any price. At $300, from JVC. it's also an outstanding value.
Frequency Response (chrome): 30-16,000 Hz ± 3dB
Wow & Flutter (WRMS): 0.09%
Signal-to-Noise Ratio (ANRS): 62dB over 5kHz
JVC America, Inc., 58-75 Queens Midtown Expressway, Maspeth. NY 11378 (212) 476-8300
Approximate retail value. Call toll-free 800-221-1502 for nearest dealer
In Canada JVC Electronic.,
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LOOK AT US NOW
Three-head recording makes a difference.
Double Dolby circuit for recording and playback Dolby calibration control Dolby FM broadcast decoder Signal-to-noise ratio of E3 rib with Dolby in Wow and flutter- 0.05% WRMS Peak-reading/VU meters Mic/ line mixing (D/ 3500 only) CRO bias switch MPX filter.
We-lake a full line of quality stereo cassette decks starting from just $149.95.
See there all at your Hitachi dealer.
Whether you choose the top-loading Hitachi D/3500 or the front-loading D/800 Stereo Cassette Tape Deck, you'll get all the benefits of three-head recording and playback.
Three-heads give you separate record and playback capability with separate and optimum gap widths-a wider gap for more magnetizing on recording, a narrow gap for improved frequency response on playback.
Three-heads provide other benefits. too.
You can monitor the tape while recording.
The double Dolby feature gives you improved signal-to-noise ratio on both the tape and the monitor output simultaneously.
Naturally. there are other features that will make these two Hitachi cassette decks attractive to you. They're listed below.
Front-loading convenience (D/ 800 only)
HITACHI-- Believably Better
Prices subject to change without notice. Hitachi Sales Corporation of America, 431 West Artesia Blvd, Compton, CA 90220
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Listen to the music
PHASE LINEAR 1000
Noise in the form of hiss, hum and rumble-all the things that effectively cloud the clarity of records, tapes and FM broadcasts.
Ideally, music should be heard against a silent background. The Phase Linear 1000 achieves just that with two unique systems: Auto-Correlator Noise Reduction and Dynamic Range Recovery.
The AutoCorrelator reduces noise by 10 dB without the loss of high frequency music and without pre-encoding.
The Dynamic Range Recovery System restores 7.5 dB of the overall dynamic range, without the pumping and swishing associated with other systems.
The Phase Linear 1000 represents the most significant improvement in sound reproduction for the money... more than any other single piece of equipment you could add to your system. It is easily installed to any stereo receiver or preamplifier.
Ask your dealer for an audition, and listen to the music.
of the noise.
The Powerful Difference
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RESEARCH DELIVERS
A Quantum Jump in Record Care
New D3 Fluid
1. Unmatched activity plus safety to vinyl additive (the critical compounds of longevity).
2 A secret non-adhering anti-static system that is measured in parts-per-billion!
3. A special chemical "release system" (pat. pend.) that allows suspended contaminants to pull away from critical micro-grooves.
The Systems Approach Of the Discwasher Brush
D3 plus the patented directional micro-fibers and absorbent backing remove-rather than line up-all dust and suspended debris.
Research Delivers from: Discwasher Group. 101407 N. PROVIDENCE COLUMBIA, MO 65201
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No matter how young or old the recording, the Institute of the American Musical, Inc. relies on Stanton for playback.
---Mr. Kreuger and Mr. Albert Husted, Vice President, show visitors how a Stanton 681 Is installed on an original Edison Standard phonograph.
Wes Kreuger, snows a portion of the extensive collection to a scholar.
----Close-up of the Stanton 681 with special stylus in position on the original Edison Standard phonograph.
--- Music scholar following the score of Show Boat while listening to original cast performances.
Speaking of problems, how would you like to be faced with the need to accurately reproduce the sound from Edison Diamond Discs, Pathes and Aeolian-Vocalions? That's just what the Institute is faced with- and that's precisely why they turned to Stanton cartridges.
The Institute collection consists of approximately 35,000 recordings, from just about every American theatre or film musical since the Berliners of the 1890's through to the latest stereo and quadraphonic recordings. The collection (not counting hundreds of cylinders) is roughly evenly divided between 78's and 33 rpm's.
They have original, historic machines to play these accurately, but the arms are heavy and the old styli insensitive and somewhat worn. Furthermore, the acoustic playback does not permit them to filter the surface noise or tape these rare records.
Miles Kreuger, President of the Institute, discussed his problem with other famed and experienced archivists. They all agreed that the Stanton calibrated 681 Series was the answer. Naturally, it is the 681 Triple-E for critical listening and taping with more recent discs; the special 681 stylus for LP's; and, for the old ones, a cartridge, especially wired for vertical response (with a 1 mil stylus).
Today, thanks to Stanton, the scholars, authors and researchers, who are dependent on the Institute's materials to pursue their projects, can get perfect to adequate reproduction of any of the material in the collection. The Institute, which is crowded into small quarters, is open by appointment only to qualified people. For the future, it looks forward to the day when it will have the space in its own building to make its collection more readily available.
The work of the Institute is important work
… Stanton is proud to be an integral part of it.
Whether your usage involves archives, recording, broadcasting or home entertainment, your choice should be the choice of the professionals ... the Stanton 681 Triple-E.
Write today for further information to:
Stanton Magnetics, Terminal Drive, Plainview, N.Y. 11803. USA.
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(High Fidelity, Jan. 1977)
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