Akai GX-646 Custom Red Reel-to-Reel Tape Deck – Professionally Restored – 1-Year Warranty

Akai GX-646 – 4-track, 2-channel stereo auto-reverse reel-to-reel deck

Accepts reels up to 10.5 inches; 7-1/2 and 3-3/4 ips tape speeds

6-head layout: 2 GX record, 2 GX playback and 2 erase heads for both directions

AC servo direct-drive capstan motor plus 2 AC eddy-current reel motors

Power-supply and amplifier sections serviced – capacitors and a relay replaced by HQaudios

All meter and indicator lamps replaced with LEDs

Wood side panels re-veneered; top cover and bottom plate touched up

Sound Demo video of this actual unit linked above

Backed by our 1-Year HQaudios Warranty

Before Restoration

When we received this Akai GX-646, we performed a complete visual, mechanical, electrical, and functional inspection before beginning the restoration process.

We checked the front panel, controls, knobs, VU meters, indicator lamps, power cord, input and output jacks, wood case, chassis, and the internal power-supply, amplifier, and control circuit boards.

Inspection Findings: The power-supply section and the amplifier section required service, and the original incandescent lamps were due for replacement. The front panel carried surface dirt, the wood side panels showed scratches, the top metal cover and bottom plate had scratches, and the jacks needed cleaning. The front panel, controls, meters, and lamps showed no faults at inspection.

The inspection results were used to determine the work required for this specific unit.

Technical Condition

Power-Supply & Amplifier Sections: Serviced; capacitors and relay replaced

Lamps: VU meter and indicator lamps replaced with LEDs

Transport: Play, fast forward, rewind and auto-reverse checked

Record / Playback: Tested in both directions at both speeds

VU Meters: Responding on both channels

Inputs / Outputs: Jacks cleaned and checked

Brand: AKAI

Model: GX-646

Type: 4-Track, 2-Channel Stereo Auto-Reverse Reel-to-Reel Tape Deck

Maximum Reel Size: 10.5 inches (NAB)

Tape Speeds: 7-1/2 ips and 3-3/4 ips

Heads: 6 heads: 2 GX record, 2 GX playback, 2 erase

Motors: 3 motors: 1 AC servo direct-drive capstan motor, 2 AC eddy-current reel motors

Wow & Flutter: 0.03% WRMS at 7-1/2 ips; 0.04% WRMS at 3-3/4 ips

Frequency Response: 25 Hz – 33 kHz ±3 dB at 7-1/2 ips; 25 Hz – 25 kHz ±3 dB at 3-3/4 ips

Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 65 dB at 7-1/2 ips

Inputs: Microphone 0.25 mV; Line 70 mV

Outputs: Line 0.775 V; headphone jack

Remote Control Socket: For Akai RC-21 (remote not included)

Original Rated Voltage: 100V AC, 50/60 Hz, 75 W (rear label – Japanese-market unit)

Current Operating Voltage: 120V AC (converted by HQaudios for direct U.S. use – no external voltage converter required)

Dimensions: 17.3 W × 19.0 H × 10.1 D in

Weight: 46.3 lbs

Serial Number: 61210-14434

Only the item specifically listed above is included. Reels, NAB hub adapters and other accessories shown in the photos are for display only and are not included.

SHIPPING & PACKAGING

Your vintage audio equipment will be professionally packed by HQaudios using protective materials appropriate for its size, weight, and construction. Large or heavy items may be palletized and shipped by freight when required for safer transportation.

1-YEAR WARRANTY & CUSTOMER SUPPORT

Your purchase is backed by our 1-Year HQaudios Warranty. Our team provides support before and after your purchase. If you have questions about setup, operation, compatibility, or your order, please contact HQaudios for assistance.

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