Share Your Knowledge/Wisdom

[cason]

Hello All,
Although I wasn't looking to acquire any new cassette decks (Just got my CT-F9191 operating perfectly) I now have a CT-F750 and a Harmon Kardon CD-491. I can't see a reason to keep but one of the two new acquisitions. Which would you keep (CT-F750 or CD-491), and why.
Thanks for all your thoughts.
Bob

 

[dr*audio]

Definitely keep the Harman Kardon CD-491. It was their flagship deck. It has closed loop dual capstan transport, for best tape to head contact. It has 3 heads, so you can play back your actual recording at the same time you are recording it, to check the quality. The CT-F750 has none of those things and isn't built as well. The specs are not as good, either. FWIW, the HK is also a much better, more reliable deck than the CT-F9191.

 

[nakmandan]

I second Dr. Audio's thoughts. The HK is one of the better regarded decks of all time. The Pioneers are nice, in fact the 9191 was one of the best for its day, but can't hold a candle to the HK. Besides, it's a question of 2 head vs. 3 head and much newer technology vs. older technology. I wouldn't even consider using either of those Pioneers for recording if you have the HK. Playback would be OK.

Why not keep the HK in your main system used for critical listening and recording and keep the 9191 in a second system?

 

[cason]

Thanks guys,
Sort of what I was thinking. Like the looks of the 9191 with the other Pioneer gear, but know the HK is a much better machine.
Bob

 

[BrocLuno]

Keep the Pio so your system matches and send me the CD491 for proper storage or other uses

 

[pioneervato]

So, is it a real problem to keep all three?

 

[SaSi]

It can gradually become...

 

[cason]

Broc, I have the 9191 to match the other Pio gear. Would rather send you the 750.

Pioneervato, It's less a problem for me than for my wife. But they do seem to be multiplying fairly rapidly, so I need to weed.
bob