Sony TCD-D 100 specifications

Brand : Sony

General

Tech nical data

The TCD-D100 (as well as its "semi-professional" twin PCM-M1, which is freed from SCMS and kept in black) is basically an excellent sounding and easy-to-use device with a quite usable microphone preamp and analog recording with 44.1 kHz. Due to the significantly reduced dimensions compared to its predecessors, the DAT-Walkman fits perfectly in the hand and allows the most important functions to be operated with the thumb. The workmanship and feel are good thanks to the all-metal housing, but the robustness suffers due to the high component density and the sensitive mechanics of the drive. If the device falls down once, operational malfunctions are pre-programmed afterwards, because the cassette holder (and thus also the important tape run) no longer "sits" cleanly even with slight deformation of the housing. Clear indications of fall damage are visible irregular or excessive gap dimensions when closed. Interested parties should pay attention to used equipment.

Another structural weak point is the plastic cover flap of the battery compartment - this has a specific point of high bending stress, at which it breaks regularly. In addition to the aging of the plastic, the rather high spring tension on the two batteries is responsible for this. A metallic and therefore sufficiently strong cover would have eliminated the problem, but Sony probably saved on material here. If the flap is broken once, it can be fixed again with superglue or the battery can still be closed with the small front fragment and then the device can be stored in the supplied leather case.

The Walkman offers the usual proprietary combination interface for digital signals at Sony 's consumer DAT Portis (optionally with adapter cable for Toslink or Coax), to which other accessories can also be connected. Plus point: the external components available for the older TCD-D3/D7/D8, such as the SBM-1 AD converter or the RM-DK3 remote control kit, also run on the D100.

As a rule, used devices urgently need a service, at least a drive maintenance with subsequent adjustment of track position and head switching interval (DPG), in order to obtain the best possible compatibility with their own and third-party recordings. Old grease often hardens the mechanics, which leads to problems with threading in and out, rewinding, or can even deform the loading arms. In addition, the brake felts require a renewal in order to ensure the necessary belt tension and a clean stopping during title jumps. Less often, electrolytic capacitors also have to be exchanged. An inspection of the plastic gears in the gearbox should also be carried out. If necessary, the pressure roller must also be renewed.

Due to the power supply with only two AA batteries (NiCd or NiMH batteries also work), the DC-to-DC converter does amazing things. If, despite proper maintenance, the device sounds a little "tired" during the threading-in and threading-out processes and during winding, the function of the DC-DC converter may be impaired. In principle, however, the D100 reacts somewhat more slowly than its predecessors TCD-D3, TCD-D7 or TCD-D8 with 6 volts each in battery operation due to the lower supply voltage of only nominally 3 volts (4.5 volts in mains operation).

Conclusion: if you are looking for an uncomplicated digital recorder or player, you will most likely not be happy with a DAT-Porti. As a fan of the format, the D100 is a successful device in itself with good functionality and some weaknesses. As usual with DAT, the maintenance status is decisive for the experience.

Manufacturer: Sony
Model: TCD-D 100
Years of manufacture: 1997 - 1999
Made in: Japan
Color: Silver
Remote control: yes
Factory price approx.: 1'700 DM