The Philips N7300 is a tape deck that was produced in 1983, marking the company's last entry into the consumer market before production halted due to changing market conditions that favored cassette decks. This model features controlled tape tension, a three-speed setting allowing playback at 4.75 cm/s, 9.5 cm/s, and 19 cm/s, and is designed to operate with larger reels. The Philips N7300 incorporates pitch control, enhancing its utility for audio recording and playback. However, it is important to note that the deck is primarily constructed from plastic, including internal components such as cogwheels, which contributes to its lightweight design compared to other models like Teac and Tascam. Although this can lead to durability concerns, many users have reported that their units have remained functional after several years. Additionally, the deck performs exceptionally well, delivering high-quality audio output, particularly at the middle speed of 9.5 cm/s, with minimal difference in sound quality when compared to the highest speed. It has been noted that the deck can accommodate a reel of 26 cm using 35 micrometer tape, allowing for approximately 6.5 hours of playback time. Using a thinner tape can extend this to about 8.5 hours. Overall, the Philips N7300 is considered a reliable option for 4-track stereo recordings, with users appreciating its performance despite its plastic construction.
