The Pioneer T-818 is a stereo cassette tape deck manufactured between 1988 and 1990 in Japan. This model features a robust black design and dimensions of 420 x 133.5 x 372 mm. It weighs 9.6 kg and operates at a power consumption of 20 W. The T-818 employs a dual capstan system for stable tape tension and enhanced playback. It is equipped with three audio heads and utilizes various advanced technologies to reduce vibration and resonance during operation. Notable features include a laser amorphous head wound with oxygen-free copper for improved sound quality, a mechanical chassis with high rigidity, and a flywheel designed to minimize wow and flutter. The cassette deck supports different tape types with automatic detection and offers a frequency response of 20 Hz to 23 kHz for Fe tapes, and slightly lower for the other types. Distortion is kept below 0.6%, indicating a focus on audio fidelity. The signal-to-noise ratio exceeds 60 dB without Dolby, with the addition of Dolby B and C noise reduction providing further improvements. The deck also boasts a fluorescent level display, a three-mode tape counter, and capabilities for monitoring audio signals. Connections include two line inputs and outputs, along with headphone output. The model incorporates sound quality enhancements such as a bias adjustment feature, auto tape selector, and a newly developed cassette stabilizer that helps suppress vibrations, ensuring a cleaner playback experience. As a serious piece of audio equipment, the T-818 is notable for combining functionality with sophisticated engineering.
