Description
The KX-400 is a two-head cassette deck built around an electronically controlled DC motor driving a front-loading transport. The record/playback and erase functions are handled by two heads — a single combined record/playback head and a separate erase head. It is worth noting that, as a two-head deck, off-tape monitoring during recording is not available; the single record/playback head handles both functions, and recording levels are set via the front-panel VU meters.
The deck supports normal ferric (Type I) and chrome (Type II) tape formulations, with front-panel switches for bias and EQ selection to optimise performance for each type. Dolby B noise reduction is fitted to improve signal-to-noise performance during both recording and playback. Frequency response extends to 14kHz with chrome tape, with a quoted signal-to-noise ratio of 60dB with Dolby engaged and wow and flutter measured at 0.05% — respectable figures for a deck of this class and era.
The front panel is dominated by the open cassette well, flanked by a mechanical tape counter and a pair of illuminated VU meters that provide clear visual feedback during recording. Transport controls are of the mechanical push-button type, and a large rotary record level knob sits to the right of the meters. A record mute switch is provided for creating gaps between tracks, and a front-panel microphone input with dedicated level control allows direct recording from an external source. Three headphone sockets are fitted for private monitoring.
The rear panel carries both RCA line-level inputs and outputs, along with a DIN socket for connection to a compatible amplifier or receiver. The unit is fitted with a multi-voltage selector (120V/220–240V), making it suitable for use in the UK without a step-down transformer.
Technical Specifications (Source: HiFi Engine / HiFi Wiki)
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Type: 2-head stereo cassette deck
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Track System: 4-track, 2-channel stereo
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Tape Speed: 4.76 cm/s
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Motor: Electronically controlled DC
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Wow and Flutter: 0.05%
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Frequency Response: 30Hz – 14kHz (Chrome)
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Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 60dB (Dolby B On)
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Noise Reduction: Dolby B
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Tape Types Supported: Normal (Type I), Chrome (Type II)
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Inputs: RCA line-level, DIN, front-panel microphone
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Outputs: RCA line-level, DIN
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Controls: Bias (Normal/Chrome), EQ (Normal/Chrome), Dolby NR, Record Mute
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Indicators: VU meters (left/right), mechanical tape counter
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Power Requirement: AC 120V/220–240V, 50/60Hz, 8W
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Dimensions (W x H x D): Not confirmed in publicly accessible reference databases
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Weight: Not confirmed in publicly accessible reference databases
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Year of Production: 1980 – 1982
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Country of Origin: Japan
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Serial Number: 01003580
Why Buy From Us
With over 40 years of experience in the Hi-Fi industry, we are well placed to assess and test equipment of this type. Every item we list is fully inspected and tested before sale — this unit was checked by Andrew in our workshop.
When you buy from us you can expect:
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Full inspection and testing prior to listing — not simply a visual check
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A 3-month guarantee on every item we sell
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Transparent descriptions with no omissions
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Professional packaging to ensure safe delivery
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After-sales support available by phone or email should you have any questions
Summary
The Trio KX-400 is a distinctive and well-regarded cassette deck from the early 1980s, offering a unique front-loading design, chrome tape compatibility, and a smooth, reliable transport in a classic silver chassis. This example is in great condition and represents a solid choice for anyone building a period-appropriate system or exploring analogue tape recording. This is a single-unit listing. Please feel free to get in touch with any questions prior to purchase.
