Stereo Cassette Player (Serviced with Soldering and Belt Replacement)

On May 5th, some solder joints were redone to improve sound quality and durability!

This is a stereo cassette player (equivalent to a Walkman, etc.) that likely omitted rewinding to reduce costs.
(Manufacturer and official name unknown as not listed)
The construction resembles that of ANDO or CROWN, so we are listing it under Brand: ANDO.

At first glance, the cheap-looking plastic body is surprisingly robust.
It maintains stable playback even when turned or shaken, and the simple design actually enhances its appeal.

However, this doesn't mean it's made entirely cheaply.
For example, while Sony's WALKMAN uses a single belt for both playback and rewinding,
this player uses two belts for playback and fast-forward only (both belts have now been replaced with new ones).
Naturally, this is effective in improving belt durability and reducing rotational unevenness.
Despite reducing parts and costs, one can't help but feel the craftsman's spirit that doesn't compromise on reproducing sound (though, considering that... *mumble mumble*).

The design with only playback and fast-forward is actually logical.
Auto-reverse and rewinding (reverse rotation) not only put a significant strain on the belts and mechanisms but also cause noise.
The straightforwardness and decisiveness of not having a rewind mechanism itself have a positive effect on durability and sound quality.
The sound quality was as expected, but the resoldering was successful, allowing it to reproduce sound as it is.
For ears accustomed to high-resolution digital audio, it has a unique sound.

This model should have an AUTO STOP mechanism, but it only works occasionally.
Since it's a mechanical mechanism rather than electronic control, it's likely not difficult to fix if one were inclined to do so.

A great feature of this model is how easy it is to maintain. Unlike late-model Walkmans with their ultra-precise circuit boards that are impossible to maintain, and which often end up ruined by mysterious battery leakage from gumstick batteries, this model runs on standard AA batteries from a 100-yen shop and can be disassembled by removing just two screws.
You can see this by looking at the number of functional Walkmans still around.
However, if you're solely focused on listening, this simple mechanism is perfectly fine.