Harman-Kardon TD-262: A two-head Cassette Deck with Exceptional Features

At first glance, the Harman-Kardon TD-262 cassette deck, made in Japan in 1988, has only two heads and therefore does not provide for midstream comparisons between the copy and the original during the recording process. However, it compensates for this with a host of remarkable features that cater to the discerning audiophile. In this story, we delve into the TD-262's key attributes, which include the HX-Pro dynamic expansion circuit, an amorphous head, and its status as an Ultrawide Band Linear Phase cassette deck.



HX-Pro Dynamic Expansion Circuit:
One of the standout features of the Harman-Kardon TD-262 is its incorporation of the HX-Pro dynamic expansion circuit. This technology proves invaluable when duplicating audio from CDs, as it enables the cassette deck to accommodate the demanding requirements of digital sound. The HX-Pro circuit extends the dynamic range, allowing for precision bias current adjustments tailored to the specific tape being used. This not only ensures optimal recording quality but also minimizes distortion and noise. With a claimed frequency response extending to 20,000 Hertz (-3dB) across all tape types and a remarkably low flutter rate of just 0.05 percent, the TD-262 excels in delivering pristine audio reproduction.

Amorphous Head:
Another standout feature of the TD-262 is its utilization of an amorphous head. This type of head, renowned for its high-quality performance, provides several advantages. Amorphous heads offer smoother and extended high-frequency response compared to traditional ferrite heads, resulting in clearer and more detailed audio recordings and playback. They also exhibit lower distortion in the high-frequency range, preserving the integrity of audio signals. Importantly, amorphous heads are less sensitive to variations in bias levels, ensuring consistent recording quality. Furthermore, their extended lifespan makes them a reliable choice, reducing the need for frequent head replacements. This makes the TD-262 an ideal match for high-quality cassette tapes, such as metal or chrome, as it maximizes their audio fidelity.

Ultrawide Band Linear Phase:
The TD-262 proudly boasts its status as an Ultrawide Band Linear Phase cassette deck, powered by individual discrete transistors. This configuration results in superior dynamic range and lower noise levels, further enhancing the audio experience during playback and recording. The frequency response of this deck is nothing short of fantastic, ensuring that your tapes capture and reproduce audio with exceptional accuracy.

In summary, despite having only two heads, its integration of the HX-Pro dynamic expansion circuit, amorphous head, and Ultrawide Band Linear Phase technology elevate it to the ranks of the finest two-headed cassette decks ever made.