TCS-310
(1981)
This pocket-sized recorder brought high quality stereo playback through headphones to the Sony range of tape machines aimed at the business user and journalist, previously such models had been mono only. The TCS-310 could also record in stereo, either using its built-in electret microphones or with an external microphone. Recordings could be made on ferric tape only but a playback equalising switch meant that metal and chrome tapes could be played back correctly as well. Power came from either four AA cells or a Sony rechargeable pack (the same type that is used in the TC-55 and WM-D6/WM-D6C), the latter could be recharged in situ using a DC adaptor. Text copyright © Walkman Central. Unauthorised reproduction prohibited.
The mechanism inside was simple, being more akin to a miniaturised standard cassette design that the specialist arrangements typical of the smaller early Walkmans. A large DC motor of conventional design was used, this and the battery pack account for the large size of the machine overall. Using a powerful motor and large flywheel did give respectable wow and flutter performance however and in general the TCS-310 is a good performer. Text copyright © Walkman Central. Unauthorised reproduction prohibited.
Concessions to business use include a single built-in loudspeaker, cue and review functions and a pause control. In common with many Sony machines, the pause control is electrical, it interrupts the supply to the motor rather than disengaging parts of the tape drive. Text copyright © Walkman Central. Unauthorised reproduction prohibited.
The TCS-310 did form the basis for an early budget Walkman model, the WM-1. Text copyright © Walkman Central. Unauthorised reproduction prohibited.