Up for sale is a vintage Nakamichi 680ZX 3-head cassette deck. This is a highly regarded Nakamichi deck and is being sold AS-IS for parts/repair due to playback/output issues described below.

The unit powers on properly and the transport is operational. Play, Stop, Fast Forward, Rewind, and Eject were tested and functioning during our testing. The cassette reels turn during playback and the head/transport mechanism engages.

The deck DOES reproduce music from a cassette; however, the audio output is currently very low and inconsistent. During testing, the connected receiver needed to be turned unusually high to obtain reasonable listening volume.

We also noticed an issue involving the OUTPUT level control. Moving/touching the Output knob can produce crackling/fuzzy audio, and applying light inward pressure to the knob caused the audio to become clearer. Rotating the Output control did not appear to adjust the output level normally. This could be related to the control itself, an internal connection, or another issue, but no attempt has been made to diagnose or repair it internally.

Additionally, the L/R level meters did not show movement during cassette playback, even when music was audible.

The deck has NOT been professionally serviced or fully tested, and there may be additional issues that were not discovered during our basic testing. Because of its age and the issues described above, it is being sold AS-IS / FOR PARTS OR REPAIR with no guarantee of full functionality.

Cosmetically, please review all photos carefully for the exact condition of the unit. This is a desirable vintage Nakamichi deck that may be an excellent candidate for restoration, servicing, or use for parts.

Known testing results:

Powers on

Cassette transport operates

Play engages and tape moves

Fast Forward and Rewind operate

Eject operates

Produces music during playback

Audio output is unusually low

Output knob causes crackling/fuzzy/intermittent audio when manipulated

Pressing Output knob inward improved audio clarity during testing

Output control does not appear to regulate volume normally

L/R meters showed no movement during playback

No internal repairs or servicing attempted