Rugged and heavy duty describes this workhorse recorder. Intended to take the punishment of day-to-day operation this mass duplicator is tailored to deliver perfect results time after time. It starts with the special construction of the cassette loading assembly. It is uses an all-metal framework, rather than a molded plastic. The trackways that glide the cassette in and down have trackways of slippery plastic formed into the steel sides. The reel motor is of the dual pancake motor design which produces consistent forward and back tension using electronics rather than the usual friction band and clutches. The video drum employs a special video head disk that has a wide contact area that smooths out the tape. The makes for better tape contact, easier cleaning and longer head life. The cassette is positioned as it comes to rest inside using metal cone-shaped line-up bosses rather than the usual molded plastic.The base frame that supports this and the tape path, drum, rollers, guides and reel motor is made of thick stamped steel for rigid support. The cabinet is all metal with creased reinforcements and side supports. This over-built philosophy also carries over to the solid electronics to make this one tough Beta. ©Misterßetamax go to homepage