Akai CR-80/81 Series Questions

[Red_Raider]

Being that I grew up listening to 8 tracks, I'm currently debating about getting an Akai 8 track player. But I want to make sure I know which is which.

I see that the CR-80 and CR-81 are generally considered among the most highly sought after due to their quality heads, strong AC motors, and overall heavy duty construction.

My questions are with regard to differentiation.

What's is/are the big difference(s) between the 80 and 81?

What's the D for? (i.e. 80D, 81D)

We're there other variations besides the D versions?

I hear the ones that record are better than just regular players. Anything else about that I should know?

And, in conclusion to my question post, I figure it's worth mentioning that I am aware the - SS versions are quad players meaning 4 tracks per program therefore there's only 2 programs per cartridge. Not so sure I really want to go there. Seems a bit expensive to get into, especially considering the prices of some quad cartridges. But, quite frankly I've never heard a quad tape played so I wouldn't know. But, I figured I'd get everything else figured out first before I get to that point.

 

[mario.bono]

"What's the D for? (i.e. 80D, 81D)"

I myself would also love to know the answer to this.

 

[Okke 70s]

In other Akai tape machines the 'D signifies that it is a Dolby version. Dunno about 8-tracks specifically..

 

[mario.bono]

Seems logical, but the shared owners manual doesn’t mention Dolby.
The CR-81 (no D) also has a built in amp and jacks for direct speaker connections as well as a tone control knob on the front right.
And then there’s the CR-81T with an AM/FM tuner.
The T makes sense. The D? Seems mysterious.

 

[oldvinyldude]

As best I can tell, the differences are the black face plate and much larger meters. I have the Radio shack branded version of the 80. It’s so good, I haven’t taken the time to work on my Akai 80SS deck.
Be advised that you will need to replace splices and foam pressure pads on virtually any cartridge you wish to play.

 

[MRL_Audio]

Be advised that you will need to replace splices and foam pressure pads on virtually any cartridge you wish to play.

Great advice. Don't take the splice for granted or try to short change the refresh process. Never works out. Kate's Tape Shack is the place to go for supplies. Great folks to work with at an affordable price.

 

[rojoknox]

Greetings from RojoLand!

Re the CR-81D vs. non-D CR-81: My understanding is that the 'D' means "deck" (that is, without a power amp and speaker connections).

Take care,
--
J. E. Knox "The Victor Freak"

 

[ConchBoy66]

Be advised that you will need to replace splices and foam pressure pads on virtually any cartridge you wish to play.

Thats a whole other art form unto itself. A labor of love!

 

[Jeff Hunt]

Following up on this thread with pictures.

Pic 1 and 2 CR-80. Pic 3 and 4 CR-80D

I have had the CR-80 in my stereo setup for a year now. What a great piece of equipment. Sounds amazing! (replaced bad sounding and lightweight Panasonic RS-803US)

Tonight I picked up a CR-80D locally (needs some repairs as it sounds very bad but otherwise works ok)

Definitely some differences.

CR-80 has separate tone control, and 1/4" speaker out jacks at the very least.