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When Sony introduced Betahi-fi stereo to the world they also introduced a very clever line of Hi-Fi ready Betamaxes. Designated as the HFR series, the "R" in their model number stood for "Ready" to convert to stereo. The line of hi-fi ready units were regular monaural recorders that, by using a special adapter, could be converted into full functioning Betahi-fi stereo VCRs. The idea was to allow customers an easy way to buy a Betamax and then at a later date add full stereo capability. There were two models of these adapters made. The first one came out before stereo over-the-air broadcasting was available. This was the HFP-100 and it plugged into the back of the HFR series Beta and provided stereo recording and playback. The second model was the HFP-200, which came along after stereo broadcasting was introduced. It was almost identical to the first one but included stereo TV reception. Click on the picture for the features and installation information. Models of stereo ready (Hi-Fi Ready) Betas were the SL-HFR30, SL-HFR50, SL-HFR60, SL-HFR70 and the SL-HFR90. In japan these recorders were labeled as "Hi-Fi Plus VCRs". There was also a HiFi stereo adapter for the Aiwa AV-50M, the SV-50M, which was also made by Sony but branded as Aiwa. Click here for a description and information about Beta hi-fi. ©Misterßetamax go to homepage |