Sound and build quality

Some controls are a little fiddly, no Dolby S.

I bought this deck for playing pre-recorded cassettes and the odd CD - tape transfer. In the UK the KX-W492 costs 170 pounds.

The KX-W492 is a basic single cassette deck. The unit looks smart with most minor controls hidden beneath a flap. Construction is excellent with a sturdy metal front fascia and slick mechanism. The only criticism is the record level, balance and play trim controls, which are a little small.

Where the Yamaha excels is in sound quality. With pre-recorded cassettes detail recovery is very good. Pitch stability is fine with no noticeable wow and flutter. Bass is also clean unlike most tape decks at this price.

For recordings I use TDK chrome or metal tapes. There is a handy auto set-up function for bias and recording level. Recordings are accurate and close to the quality of the original source.

All in all, this a fine product. If you can live without Dolby S the KX-W492 is highly recommended.

Similar Products Used:

Nachamichi CR1