Yamaha KX-493 Natural Sound Stereo Cassette Deck

This Yamaha KX-493 is a stereo cassette deck with Dolby B/C and HX-Pro noise reduction, it was first sold by Yamaha in 1998 with a list price of USD $250 and discontinued 8 years later in 2006.

The main features of the Yamaha KX-493 are: 2 heads, digital tape counter with 4 digits and memory stop, automatic tape type selection and capable of handling normal, chrome and metal tapes, belt driven single-capstan transport.

Typical front loading cassette deck with the cassette compartiment located on the left side of the deck. Tape eject is operated mechanically and the cassette needs to be placed with the side to be played facing forward in the cassette well.

Level meters used on the KX-493 are generic digital peak reading meters. Full-logic transport controls used on the KX-493 let it respond to the slightest finger contact for fast and effortless transport function selection.

To ensure the best response from the wide variety of tapes available adjustment of, bias and sensitivity, to optimum levels can be performed prior to recording.

Dolby C-type used in the KX-493 provides 20 dB of noise reduction above about 1,000 Hz, fully doubling the amount given by B-type. The Dolby HX PRO system provides precise bias control during recording to reduce distortion and improve linearity in the high-frequency range, the result is recorded sound that is highly faithful to the original. The 19kHz multiplex pilot slgnal present in FM stereo broadcasts can cause false triggering of the noise reduction system. The switchable MPX filter of the KX-493 filters out the pilot signal, and assuring proper Dolby processing of FM stereo programs.

For undisturbed listening a jack connector for a pair of stereo headphones is supplied. Connection to other audio components for plaback can be achieved by a RCA cable and recording from a source by a RCA cable. All main transport commands can be issued remotely with a wireless remote control.

• Cassette Stabilizer
• Natural Sound
• Yamaha CF Head