MA-XG: 1985
A top-grade Metal tape further refined to reproduce absolute sound
METAL ALLOY EXTRA GRADE
C46: 1,400 yen.
An insider’s recollection
The tape-guide section of the MA-R was die-cast, but here it was replaced with a more precise plastic component. This also reduced manufacturing costs. Since it was an improved version of the MA-R, the name was changed too.
Yoshino (吉野), former TDK employee.
Explanatory notes
The MA-XG was released in 1985 as the successor to the MA-R, TDK’s top Metal tape, with further improvements to both tape and mechanism.
It used the existing Finavinx material (ファイナビンクス), with still smaller particles and higher packing density. This reduced noise, expanded dynamic range and achieved an exceptionally wide frequency response extending into the very highest frequencies.
The shell employed the improved RS-II mechanism. The guide block, previously integral with the die-cast frame, became a separate component made from a special plastic, improving precision. Extremely precise metal guide pins in this block greatly improved tape-transport accuracy and stability.
The die-cast section was slightly reshaped, and the hubs were replaced with newly developed dual-mode hubs, giving the cassette a noticeably different appearance from the MA-R. Replacing some die-cast components with plastic also reduced its weight slightly.
MA-XG Fermo: 1990
Super Metal with a multipart mechanism and dual-layer tape
METAL ALLOY EXTRA GRADE FERMO
C46: 1,800 yen.
The MA-XG Fermo was TDK’s last top-grade Metal tape. It incorporated new ideas, including a five-part construction with every component secured by screws. However, fewer were produced than earlier models, including the MA-XG, making it a rare and valuable model.
The Museum also has an original review of this cassette.
Explanatory notes
Released in 1990 as an improved MA-XG, this cassette featured entirely different tape and shell construction.
Two new Finavinx formulations were developed for the magnetic coating: a low-noise material with good mid- and high-frequency performance, and a high-output material with good low- and mid-frequency performance. Applying them in two layers produced an exceptionally wide dynamic range.
To realize this tape’s potential, the shell adopted the five-part RS-III mechanism. The plates on sides A and B were given vibration-absorbing properties by integrally molding two kinds of plastic, one soft and one hard. These plates were clamped between the upper frame section and two side sections, then secured with screws.
The tape-guide block was separated from the shell as an independent component. Sound-stabilizing weights were fitted on both sides of the guide block to prevent vibration around the tape path. Every joint was screw-fastened, using 10 screws in all. This top-grade TDK cassette combined a rigid, low-vibration shell with high-output tape.