Sony WM-B52 Tape Transport

The Sony WM-B52 Sports Walkman uses toothed cogwheels for the transport mechanism, because rubber surfaces will likely slip when exposed to water. The smaller black cogwheel at the centre often made a crunching noise when using the fast forward and rewind functions.

The tape path was well designed and reliable. There is a wide pinch roller and thick capstan spindle, which pulls the tape out at a uniform speed. There is also the tension sensor for the auto stop mechanism, which works even today.

Back in the 80s when Akio Morita was still in charge, Sony made many innovative designs for use in the consumer electronics arena.

BS12 Audio Head

The design of the audio playback head was a common feature in the Walkmans of that era. This was one of the best designs of that time, which Sony used for their Walkman range.

This is a stereo head with four terminals; however, two of the terminals connect together to the earth wire.

Cogwheels

Here are some more cogwheels. They seem to have lasted a long time and should continue operating for many more years.

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