I can get either of these two for about the same price, one through a friend and one thorugh a dealer. I have found a lot of info and reviews on the Nakamichi but very little on the Luxman. I just need to the machine to have quality during playback but I won't be recording anything so that is not as important to me.

Any thoughts on which one would be better as far as quality and playback?

The 480 is a great deal easier to service than the Luxman, and many techs are familiar with it. Also, the 480 is a superb performer.

Fred

Thank you for the tip. I wasn't even thining of the servicing aspect of it. Very valuable piece of info since it will have to be serviced eventually, although hopefully not too soon:D

Well, I ended up with the Nakamichi and everything seems to work fine except the tape counter. It works when fast forwarding or reversing but not when playing. Guess it is time for a new belt so I might as well do them all.

I have seen a few different places for belts, but not sure if they are genuine. Anyone have recommendations on where to get them?

Just on an off chance I went to Goodill today and bought a near mint Akai CS-703D for $7. I think that should hold me till I get the Nak back in 100% working order.

And despite being a 2 head deck, they are wonderful pieces of gear. I bought my first 480 new in 1981, and except for one service in the early 90's it is still valiantly plugging along. The second I picked up off e-prey for $20...:thmbsp: