I purchased this player to replace my old Revox B710, whose mechanical system has stopped working, with the desire to integrate the old audio tapes I have that are over 30 years old into the audio chain.
The TASCAM 202MKVII cassette player comes packed in two cardboard boxes, the inner one secured with shockproof polystyrene.
The look is modern and from a distance it has that "vintage" vibe for which I bought it.
The need for two playback slots for two tapes is excessive and unnecessary, as the functions of both are strictly similar.
The playback and recording functions are basic, without additional features. There are no Dolby filters included. From what I've noticed, metal tapes are not accepted for playback (please verify this claim).
The playback mechanism also seems basic, similar to those in portable cassette players. Apparently, their use would be justified by simplifying service procedures.
The audio quality is decent, corresponding to this type of physical playback medium.
The USB input from a digital source to record audio tapes is also a negligible addition, considering that in a serious audio system, digital music playback far exceeds the quality of music recorded on audio tape.
The connection for connecting to a preamp or integrated amplifier is only via RCA, another sign of this player's "mainstream" intention.
In conclusion, the TASCAM 202MKVII is a decent cassette player, without excelling in any of the qualities necessary for an audiophile player (pleonasm audio tape - audiophilia). The appearance is the main asset of this device.
Thank you Soundcreation for the seriousness with which you handled my order for this device, without sufficient market currently.
