Akai GX-635D Black Face Pro Serviced Open Reel Tape Deck Tested Multi-Volt Video

AKAI GX-635D Black Face Reel-to-Reel Tape DeckServiced • Auto-Reverse • Six GX Heads • 10½" Reels • Multi-Voltage

Offered here is an especially attractive black-face AKAI GX-635D, Akai's imposing three-motor, six-head auto-reverse open-reel deck and one of the standout machines of the company's classic GX era.

This example has been professionally serviced, thoroughly tested, and demonstrated on video. It is operating properly in all tested functions and is ready for regular use.

The GX-635D combines Akai's extraordinarily durable GX glass-and-crystal ferrite head technology with a sophisticated six-head arrangement that provides dedicated record, playback and erase heads for both tape directions. Unlike machines offering reverse playback alone, the GX-635D provides full record and playback capability in both directions, making its auto-reverse system a genuinely useful feature rather than simply a convenience.

This is also a multi-voltage example, switchable for 110/120/220/240V, 50/60Hz operation — an important advantage for international buyers.

Recent Service

The machine received a comprehensive basic mechanical service intended to address the normal maintenance needs of a vintage tape transport.

Work included:

• New rubber components as required
• Thorough cleaning of controls
• Complete cleaning of the tape path
• Moving mechanical components cleaned, exercised and lubricated as appropriate
• Brake system adjusted
• Transport and operating functions fully tested

Following service, the machine was extensively function-tested and is operating properly. We expect it to provide reliable long-term service with normal care and maintenance.

A video demonstration is included with the listing, showing the machine in operation and demonstrating its principal functions.

Six-Head Auto-Reverse System

One of the GX-635D's defining features is its unusual six-head configuration:

• Two GX record heads
• Two GX playback heads
• Two erase heads

This symmetrical arrangement allows the machine to provide record, playback and erase functionality in both tape directions. Akai's GX heads use its glass-and-crystal ferrite construction, developed for exceptional durability and resistance to head wear.

The GX-635D is a 4-track, 2-channel stereo/monaural machine accepting reels up to 10½ inches.

Three-Motor Direct-Drive Transport

The transport uses three motors: a direct-drive AC servo capstan motor and two AC eddy-current reel motors. This arrangement eliminates the need for a belt-driven capstan and provides the stable tape handling for which these larger Akai decks are known.

The deck operates at:

7½ ips (19 cm/s)
3¾ ips (9.5 cm/s)

Playback pitch is adjustable by more than ±6%, according to Akai's specifications.

Factory Performance Specifications

Akai specified the GX-635D for excellent performance:

Frequency response:
30 Hz–27 kHz ±3 dB at 7½ ips with WR tape
30 Hz–21 kHz ±3 dB at 3¾ ips with WR tape

Wow & flutter:
Less than 0.03% WRMS at 7½ ips
Less than 0.04% WRMS at 3¾ ips

Signal-to-noise ratio: Better than 62 dB DIN 45500

Distortion: Less than 0.5% at 1 kHz / 0 VU

Channel separation: Better than 55 dB at 1 kHz

Reel capacity: Up to 10½ inches

Dimensions: approximately 17.4" W × 19" H × 10.1" D

Weight: approximately 46.4 lb.

The GX-635D also provides separate microphone and line recording controls, permitting the two sources to be mixed during recording, along with a real-time counter and timer-recording capability.

Cosmetic Condition

This machine is in good overall cosmetic condition, particularly considering its age.

The black faceplate presents very nicely, the lettering remains crisp and legible, the meters illuminate properly, and the controls and transport assembly retain an attractive, well-preserved appearance.

There is mild separation of the black veneer along the right-hand edge of the cabinet, visible in the photographs. There are also normal minor marks and signs of use consistent with a vintage component.

We have deliberately photographed the machine from all major angles, including the top, bottom, rear, both sides, transport and head area, so its cosmetic condition can be evaluated accurately.

Please examine all photographs carefully; they form part of the description.

Multi-Voltage / International Use

This particular GX-635D is the desirable multi-voltage version.

The rear panel is marked:

AC 110 / 120 / 220 / 240V
50 / 60Hz
70W

This makes the machine particularly attractive for an international buyer. The voltage selector must, of course, be correctly configured for the electrical supply where the machine will be used.

Shipping / Local Pickup

Local pickup is welcome and is always the easiest way to acquire a substantial vintage tape machine of this caliber.

We also offer fully insured worldwide shipping.

The GX-635D weighs approximately 46 lb before packing, and reel-to-reel decks require considerably more care than ordinary consumer electronics. This machine will therefore be packed specifically for safe transport, with careful protection of the reel tables, controls, cabinet and transport mechanism.

International buyers are welcome. Any applicable import duties, taxes, brokerage charges or other destination-country fees are the buyer's responsibility.