Sharp RD-630E

The RD-630E (also written RD 630E) is a portable cassette recorder manufactured by the Sharp Corporation in Malaysia. Here are some of its features and specifications.

• Auto-stop
• Mains and battery powered
• Earphone, microphone, and remote jacks
• DIN socket
• Built-in microphone
• Dimensions: 147 mm × 50 mm × 263 mm
• Mass: 1.1 kg (without batteries)

Review

This is a wonderful cassette recorder that is very ruggedly built with generous amount of plastic and has a substantial weight. It has much in similarity with RD-620, which was a much more basic unit without a DIN socket. Interestingly this unit does not have a 3-digit counter, however I was still able to use it with my 80s home computer to save/load data.

In this design, the circuitry has the BA526 audio power amplifier IC, with capacitor output going to a 6.5 cm 8 Ω loudspeaker. The complete circuitry is simple consisting of one IC, two transistors, and three diodes for the semiconductors. The sound quality is fairly decent, and the specifications indicate one can expect approximately 700 mW dynamic power output.

The tape transport mechanism (TTM) consists of a single drive belt, which drives the capstan flywheel and clutch pulley, and the design is very reminiscent of the early Philips recorders. In this design, the TTM chassis consists of a single thick metal plate upon which they have mounted the components on both sides. The plastic pushbutton mechanisms, including the TTM cogwheels, are rugged and designed to be robust. The date on the motor appears to indicate 1984, which gives an approximate time when this unit would have been manufactured. Of all the budget-end cassette recorders of that era, this unit appears to be a much better design worth having.

Value/eBay

This is a wonderful model that I have not seen often for sale. It was extremely well designed and consequently a desirable item for the collector, or for anyone who wishes to use cassettes. A unit in good working order and mint condition would be worth more than twenty pounds.

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