Nakamichi LX-5 Discrete 3-Head Cassette Deck Introduced in 1981 and produced until 1984, the Nakamichi LX-5 was designed to bridge the gap between audiophile-grade studio performance and elegant, minimalist "lifestyle" aesthetics. It stripped away the intimidating, studio-console look of the classic 700 and 1000 series, adopting a sleek design by industrial designer Peter S. Outerbridge, while retaining Nakamichi's legendary, uncompromising internal engineering. ------------------------------ ## Key Features & Technological Innovation## 1. The Discrete 3-Head System Unlike standard 3-head decks that house the record and playback heads inside a single casing (sandwich heads), the LX-5 features completely independent Crystalloy record and playback heads. * Perfect Alignment: Each head is physically separated and individually adjusted for height, zenith, and azimuth. * Optimized Gaps: The playback head has a ultra-narrow gap (0.6 microns) for extended high-frequency response, while the recording head features a wider gap (3.5 microns) to deeply saturate the tape without distortion. * Real-Time Monitoring: Allows the user to switch instantly between the source signal and the actual tape playback during recording (Tape/Source monitoring). ## 2. The Classic Nakamichi Transport (Asymmetric Dual-Capstan) The LX-5 utilizes Nakamichi’s highly acclaimed Second-Generation Transport System. This mechanical masterpiece is vastly superior to the cheaper, mass-produced Sankyo transport mechanisms found in later models (like the BX and Cassette Deck series). * Diffused Resonance Dual-Capstan: The supply and take-up capstans operate at slightly different diameters and flywheel masses. This asymmetry prevents the build-up of resonant frequencies, obliterating tape scrape noise and lowering flutter to near-microphonic levels. * Pad Lifter: A small protrusion on the playback head physically pushes the cassette’s internal pressure pad out of the way. The deck relies solely on its dual-capstans for tape-to-head contact, eliminating the irregular friction caused by cheap cassette housing pads. ## 3. "Stealth" Ergonomics The front panel is divided into two operational zones: * Primary Controls: Exposed, highly tactile transport keys (Play, Pause, F.Fwd, Rew, Stop, Record) for daily operation. * Secondary Panel: A motorized or weighted flip-down door conceals advanced calibration tools, keeping the fascia clean. This hidden bay contains the manual bias adjustment knob, master stroke volume controls, recording balance, Dolby selectors, and the monitor switch. ------------------------------ ## Technical Specifications | Parameter | Specification | |---|---| | Heads | 1 x Record, 1 x Playback, 1 x Erase (Discrete 3-Head System) | | Motors | 1 x Reel (DC), 1 x Capstan (DC, Governor), 1 x Mechanism Control (Cam) | | Tape Types | Type I (Normal), Type II (CrO2 / Chrome), Type IV (Metal) | | Frequency Response | 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz (±3dB) — Identical performance across all 3 tape types | | Wow & Flutter | Less than 0.06% WTD RMS / ±0.11% WTD Peak | | Signal-to-Noise Ratio | > 62 dB (Dolby B), > 70 dB (Dolby C) | | Total Harmonic Distortion | < 0.9% (with Nakamichi ZX Metal tape at 400Hz, 0dB) | | Erasure Effect | Better than 60 dB (at 1 kHz, +10 dB) | | Dimensions | 450 mm x 135 mm x 307 mm (W x H x D) | | Weight | 8.5 kg (18.7 lbs) | ------------------------------ ## Maintenance & Common Faults (Buyer's Guide) While the LX-5 is a sonically brilliant machine capable of competing with the flagship Nakamichi Dragon, it is over 40 years old and requires specific upkeep. If you are buying or restoring one, be aware of the following: