JVC KD-W55 Cassette Deck
The KD-W55, (also known as KD-W55BK), was a dual cassette deck manufactured by the JVC Corporation. It had the following features.
- Double Speed dubbing with synchro start
- Two 2-motor full-logic mechanisms for reliable, smooth operation
- Random access programmability for up to 10 songs
- ANRS/Dolby B noise reduction for clean, clear recordings
- Computer Shift Control: Simple two-key touch for versatile operations
Specification
| Model Name | KD-W55 |
| Frequency response (metal) | 30 Hz to 16 kHz (±3 dB) |
| Frequency response (chrome) | 30 Hz to 16 kHz (±3 dB) |
| Frequency response (normal) | 30 Hz to 15 kHz (±3 dB) |
| SNR (metal) | 58 dB |
| Wow and Flutter | 0.17 % |
| Crosstalk | 55 dB (1 kHz) |
| Channel Separation | 40 dB (1 kHz) |
| Number of Heads per deck | 2 |
| Recording/Playback Head | Metaperm (Deck B) |
| Playback Head | Metaperm (Deck A) |
| Erase Head | 2-gap Ferrite (Deck B) |
| Motors | Electronic Governor, DC Motor |
| Additional Motors (Deck A, B) | For FF and REW operations |
| Fast Forward/Rewind Time | 95-seconds with C60 |
| Line-in Sensitivity/Impedance | 80 mV/100 kΩ |
| Line-out Level/Impedance | 300 mV/5 kΩ |
| Headphones | 0.3 mW/8 Ω |
| Dimensions | 435 mm × 120 mm × 285 mm |
| Mass | 4.9 kg |
Cost/eBay
The KD-W55 was a highly desirable dual tape deck that audiophiles desire even today. Each tape transport mechanism had two motors, including metaperm heads, making it very sought after. A good working one in mint condition can sell for well over fifty pounds or more.