Also known as the Kastam SS-102. There is also a model EM-808 (without the D), released one year earlier, which looks identical to this one (see catalog below). I don't know what the difference is.
For an 8-track based unit, the EM-808D has it all: multiple inputs, tone controls, back-lit VU meter, plus the ability to output a 100% wet signal. You can't really ask for anything more from this kind of technology... Its limitations are the same as every other 8-track delay: one head only, short delay time and low fidelity at slow tape speeds. Regardless, 8-track delays have a charm of their own: low wow & flutter, plus a very peculiar way of distorting signal that makes them extremely useful for certain applications. The EM-808D does a great job at all of this. This unit, along with the Kastam SS-102 (they are basically the same units), are my two favorite 8-track delays.
The catalog says that the unit uses "CT-2" cassette tapes (sold for 1500 yen each in 1982, about 15$US!). I've never seen one, but I suspect these 8-tracks have wide enough holes at the front so as not to need modification. More info on this topic on the 8-track cartridge mod page.
Excerpt from a 1982 Guyatone catalog (full catalog here).
Click on image to enlarge.
Excerpt from a 1981 Guyatone catalog (full catalog here).
Click on image to enlarge.
My EM-808D needed no servicing, apart from the usual cleaning. I didn't need to change the drive belt, but in my experience with 8-track delays, the belt could fail at any time. Fortunately it's not so hard to replace, provided you have a bit of money to spare.
Francesc Fri, 04 Mar 2011 02:51:42 -0800
Hello, do you have the service manual for this echo? I've a erase head iussue that dont erase completely what recorded before. I think that could be a wrong bias regulation
ESTECHO Fri, 04 Mar 2011 06:45:18 -0800
Unfortunately I don’t have the service manual. In fact I don’t have any docs for the EM-808D, apart from the catalog excerpt above.
First thing I would do is try another tape. It’s the cheapest, easiest test, and you’ll need more than one tape if you’re planning to use it anyway. I’ve never done troubleshooting on erase head issues, but I would: 1) check for physical contact, and 2) look at the components near the erase head in the circuitry, and check for shorts, bad values, etc.
.jpg)
.gif){kind=small}
