Sansui - WS-X1 Analogue multitrack recorder

Sansui WS-X1 – Rare 6-Track Cassette Multitrack Recorder / 8-Channel Mixer

Interesting and uncommon Sansui WS-X1, an analog workstation for multitrack cassette recording produced by Sansui.

The WS-X1 is not a ordinary cassette deck: it’s a true autonomous music production system that combines in a single machine a 6-track multitrack recorder, an 8-channel mixer, and a dedicated stereo backup recorder also for the mixdown.

A particularly interesting machine today for collectors of Sansui equipment, musicians and producers seeking the sonic and operational characteristics of analog cassette recording.

A decidedly unusual configuration

The heart of the WS-X1 is Deck A, capable of recording and playing back 6 separate tracks on the same cassette.

Unlike the more common 4-track cassette multitracks, the Sansui thus provides six independent tracks, allowing recordings, overdubs and the construction of fully analog multitrack arrangements.

Deck A also runs at 9.5 cm/s, twice the normal cassette speed, and features a ±20% pitch control.

Next to the multitrack there is a second stereo deck, usable to realize the final mix directly on the same machine.

The system also includes a true 8-channel analog mixer, with Mic/Line inputs, level, pan and EQ controls, as well as effects and monitoring connections.

Key features:

• 6-track / 6-channel analog recorder
• integrated 8-channel analog mixer
• second integrated stereo recorder for mixdown
• Deck A at 9.5 cm/s
• Pitch Control ±20% on the multitrack
• per-channel equalization
• ability to connect external effects
• individual outputs for the 6 tracks, particularly interesting for transferring the recorded tracks separately to a mixer or a digital system
• monitoring and routing system designed as a small autonomous recording console

Declared frequency response of the tape section: 40 Hz – 15 kHz.
Frequency response of the mixer section: 10 Hz – 60 kHz.
Dimensions: about 625 × 110 × 343 mm.
Weight: about 9 kg.

It is an interesting example of the late 1980s to early 1990s era when several Japanese manufacturers developed complete systems for home analog recording.

Today the 6-track format on compact cassette makes the WS-X1 a particularly unusual machine compared with the much more widespread 4-track multitracks of the era.

Conditions

The unit was purchased used and is sold NOT TESTED.

At the time of purchase I was told there were issues related to the cassette transport section/mechanism. I have not subsequently performed a technical diagnosis nor had the device serviced, therefore I cannot determine the nature or extent of any intervention that might be necessary.

A full test of recording, playback, forward/rewind, mixer and other electronic functions has not been performed.

For this reason the device’s operation or the operation of its individual sections is not guaranteed.

Considering also the age of the machine, a normal service of mechanical parts prone to wear such as belts, pinch rollers and other transport system components might be required.

It is therefore sold as-is, in its current state, as an untested device potentially needing servicing/repair.

It is particularly suited for a hobbyist or technician capable of performing the necessary maintenance, or as a collectible example.

Aesthetic conditions

The aesthetic conditions are documented in the photographs, which form an integral part of the description.

Normal signs of use and aging compatible with the age of the device are present.

Considering the particular architecture 6-track cassette + 8-channel mixer + stereo mixdown deck, the WS-X1 represents a decidedly unusual machine in the history of analog home recording and an interesting alternative to the more common cassette multitracks of the era.

The device will be packed with particular care, adequately protecting the front, controls and mechanisms during transport.