The Mitsubishi Intelligent Audio System, manufactured in Japan in 1984, is an impressive and unique integration of different audio components, reflecting the technological ambition of its time. This Japanese-made system includes the following devices: LT-45P Turntable: A digitally controlled, fully automatic linear tracking turntable, ensures precise playback of vinyl records. DP-45P CD Player: A fully automatic compact disc player designed for ease of use and high-quality sound reproduction. DT-45P Cassette Deck: An auto-reverse stereo cassette deck with a sleek horizontal loading mechanism. DA-R45P Receiver: A digitally controlled intelligent receiver featuring a programmable timer and a graphic equalizer. This unit is noted for its compact build and significant weight, indicative of robust internal components. SS-62P Speakers: These 8-ohm speakers deliver a nominated power rating of 50W with a frequency range from 40 Hz to 25 kHz, catering to a wide audio spectrum. What sets this system apart is its reliance on the System Commander, an infrared controller that goes beyond a conventional remote. It serves as the brain of the system, making the individual components highly interdependent. Without this controller, the system cannot be operated, underlining the integrated design philosophy. You can take the controller with you to the sofa, or keep it attached to the system by integrated magnets. The whole design reflects a forward-thinking approach, anticipating modern-day integrated systems. However, it poses challenges for collectors and enthusiasts, as the loss of the controller significantly hampers usability. Overall, this system is a fascinating piece of audio history, appealing to those interested in vintage technology and high-quality sound.
Check out the Akai F3L which predates CD. https://stereo2go.com/forums/threads/akai-f3l.2840/ It certainly has some of the same ideas, like the front panel remote attached by magnets. You couldn't change the volume or source without the remote.
There is one for sale on ebay uk https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/195731223791 This one doesn't look to have the CD player. For once the eBay seller is right using the word "Rare". Mitsubishi TVs and VCRs were quite common here but their audio gear was rarer than brands like Akai. Back in 1984 having an infra red remote was a high end feature. The remote that came with my Mitsubishi VCR had three buttons (Pause, Cue, and Review) and was on the end of a 9 foot (3m) long cable.
It looks like an office building! This thing is like 70's architecture. The remote is cool, but also makes the machine very vulnerable to premature aging. If you lose or break the remote, the machine is kind of worthless. Aren't there also Walkmans from the 90s where the machine can no longer be operated without a remote control? I think it's a strange concept actually. Especially for 1984. I don't have any Mitsubishi equipment. I love their MK1 Pajero/Shogun, but their audio stuff isn't for me.
My DJ buddy had Mitsubishi in the 80's and said it was the fashizzle but it definately didn't have a big footprint over here either. I love these systems, I think they will be very collectable, like fancy colored cheap plastic portable TT's from the 60's, but finding them is going to be very hard and to have one that is not broken or working is another issue. The majority of the really cool higher end models seemed to have been sold in Japan only.
That was right around the start of the huge "MASTER" universal remotes, even Marantz had a high-dollar universal remote but they only lasted a few short years. I think some people were turned on by the big flat size.
