ELCASET Tape Recorders

Elcaset tape recorders were developed around Sony’s larger cassette-based recording format, introduced during the 1970s as an alternative to conventional compact cassette and open-reel systems. Using tape approximately twice the width of compact cassette tape and operating at a higher speed, Elcaset recorders were designed to provide improved recording performance while retaining the convenience of an enclosed cartridge. Manufacturers including Sony, JVC and TEAC produced sophisticated Elcaset decks featuring multi-head transports, dual-capstan mechanisms, comprehensive tape calibration, noise reduction and advanced monitoring facilities, although the format remained in production for only a short period. Learn More

Made In Japan

Released in 1976 /

Sony EL-5 Stereo ELCASET Tape Deck

Introduced in 1976, the Sony EL-5 was a two-head stereo Elcaset recorder featuring logic-controlled feather-touch operation, an FG servo motor, a solid-core ferrite recording and playback head, Dolby noise reduction, independent bias and equalisation selection, microphone and line mixing, memory operation and timer compatibility.

Made In Japan

Released in 1977 /

JVC LD-777 Stereo ELCASET Tape Deck

Introduced in 1977, the JVC LD-777 was a three-head, two-motor stereo Elcaset recorder featuring logic-controlled transport operation, Super ANRS and Dolby noise reduction, manual bias and level calibration, adjustable test generators and comprehensive source and tape monitoring.

Made In Japan

Released in 1977 /

TEAC AL-700 Stereo ELCASET Tape Deck

Introduced in 1977, the TEAC AL-700 was a three-head, three-motor Elcaset recorder featuring a closed-loop dual-capstan transport, separate coreless reel motors, off-tape monitoring, Dolby noise reduction, three-position tape selection and comprehensive recording and timer controls.

Made In Japan

Released in 1977 /

Technics RS-7500US Stereo ELCASET Tape Deck

The Technics RS-7500US was a three-head ELCASET recorder released in 1977, using 6.3mm tape at 9.5cm/s. It combined automatic tape selection, off-tape monitoring, an FG servo transport, photo-electronic auto-stop, memory rewind, timer operation and comprehensive recording controls in a large-format cartridge deck.

Made In Japan

Released in 1978 /

Sony EL-4 Stereo ELCASET Tape Deck

A more accessible alternative to the flagship EL-7, the Sony EL-4 brought the core benefits of the Elcaset format to a simpler domestic recorder. With wider tape, 9.5 cm/s tape speed, Dolby noise reduction, automatic tape-type switching, logic-controlled transport, ferrite-and-ferrite heads and large illuminated VU meters, it offered a serious step beyond standard compact cassette performance while remaining straightforward to use.

Made In Japan

Released in 1978 /

Sony EL-7 Stereo ELCASET Tape Deck

The Sony EL-7 was a three-head ELCASET recorder featuring a three-motor closed-loop dual-capstan transport, ferrite heads, logic-controlled operation, Dolby noise reduction, source and tape monitoring, microphone and line mixing, memory functions and optional remote control.