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The SL-800ME is a very special kind of Betamax. It is a Super  Beta video recorder and player that handle a multitude of video formats. These are the ones used by nations around the world. Which formats are noted in the features list below. This model has a very attractive exterior design and easy-to-use controls. Features two dual azimuth DA4 heads that combine to permit various recording schemes and provide a noiseless picture during pause and step. Beautiful deep black metallic exterior with observation window over the cassette compartment. Formidable in design and detail, truly a world-class Betamax. Links to more information are available from the listing of features below.
• Refurbished product that meets or exceeds factory specifications • Super Beta and Standard Beta  and  speeds • Eight video standards are supported: PAL B and G, SECAM B and G, NTSC 3.58 and 4.43 Also plays older French SECAM and NTSC 4.43 • Three tuners for global TV channel standard accessibility plus cable • DA4 video heads for clear special effects in pause • Programmable timer with 2 events over 7 days or every day • Timer Indictor with programming, function and operation stages • SuperBeta indicator shows a recording is being made in SuperBeta • Inputs/output connectors for audio and video • Military clock and timer 24 hour time cycle • Sharpness control for customizing the playback picture • Linear time display in hours, minutes and seconds • Observation window over the cassette compartment • Wireless remote control duplicates important functions • Feather touch function buttons for easy control • Freeze-frame step-motion and x2 with clear picture • Edit switch for improved copies and removing unwanted content • Express-tuning for direct access to programmed channels • Auto tuning to automatically discover and set available channels • BetaScan high-speed viewing in forward and reverse during playback • BetaSkipscan high-speed viewing during fast forward and rewind • Clock/counter button for checking tape location • Multi-display with tape direction indicator • SuperBeta on/off switch for picture compatibility • Test signal for tuning television monitor • AFT switch to select automatic or manual tuning of weak stations • Micro-timing-phase (µTP) circuitry for noise free transitions • Cassette inside indicator in display for easy verification • BNR noise reduction to reduce noise in the monaural sound track • Vertical lock adjustment for fine tuning picture stability • Power failure 5 second memory backup of time and programs • Manual tracking control for fine-tuning the best picture • Adapter Plug included for use with USA house current. • Auto functions: modules 1, 2, 5, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 19 and 21 apply • Operation and protection features are standard • Corrections and modifications: module 11 applies • Reproduction of the original owner's manual • Highlighted wording in the features list |
Is this the Betamax you are looking for? To make selection easier I have put together a table that lists them by their pedigree. To see it click here.  The SL-800ME can play a bunch of broadcast formats used in different countries, but it cannot change one foreign format into another. For example, while it will play and record the PAL format, it will not change it so it can be seen or recorded on an NTSC or SECAM device. To do that, you need to send the video through a multi-system converter (you can find these on the internet). To see just one design, click here. Changing one format to another requires altering the outgoing signal to match the requirements of the receiving device. Adding this device would give one the ultimate control over the foreign standards as needed. The reason PAL recordings will not play in an NTSC VCR (USA) is because the video signal scheme isn't compatible. The result is the video might roll, the colors could be off, or the speed might be incorrect, This also applies when playing SECAM and any other foreign format (when using an NTSC VCR). Hence the need for a multi-format recorder and player for use in foreign countries. Sony didn't make this SL-800ME to convert formats. It was designed to travel from country to country and operate using different video systems and voltages. Adding converter electronics would have impacted the cost and possibly the size of the VCR. It must have been a good idea because Sony sold a good number of these special multi-format Betas. PERFORMANCE DETAILS: The SL-800ME can record and play Super Beta and standard Beta in the following formats. USA NTSC 3.58 SuperBeta and standard Beta in and speeds. SuperBeta can be turned off for recording tapes in standard Beta. Records and plays PAL B, G and I and SECAM B & G single speed (18.73 mm/sec). Also plays French SECAM and NTSC 4.43. Tapes recorded in Betahi-fi will play correctly in the SL-800ME but not in stereo. This VCR was made prior to 1989 and should be unaffected by Copyguard encryption. To examine a Beta format compatibility chart click here.
 
I refurbish all the Beta VCRs offered through my Website. If you would like to examine how this is accomplished, I have composed a special section that explains how it's done. To go to the "Beta Refurbishing" section, click here. Read an important message about my refurbished VCRs by clicking here. Do you have one of these premium Betas that isn't working? It is eligible for repair along with a lot of others. To see the list of candidates, click here. For service, click on "Getting It Repaired" in the right button array or click here.
 *These rating numbers are comparisons between the Beta VCRS within this particular design group. Contributing factors are engineering quality, popularity, aesthetics, execution, repair frequency, and the number of features and their benefits. Analysis is subjective and should not be considered an endorsement. |
