Hello, need some PRO help....Is the CT-F650 a good unit ? and if so , is 25 bucks worth it in MINT cond. thanks all for your help..... Michael...**************************************** ************************************************** ************************************************** *********
since this first post, I got one localy for $5 but it needs a drive belt, anyone got one for sell......Thanks...Michael...

If you need to get anything serviced you will be spending much more than $25 that one claims to have a new belt and offers money back in case of problems so if you can't repair it yourself it's not abad deal.

Having said that, I have seen much better decks for less or more but that are better buys. To give you an example yesterday I saw on ebay a Pioneer CTF 950 which is a lot (I mean a LOT better) for just $45 buy it now and it look in fairly good condition.

I have one, and it has been very reliable. It sounds as good as any other deck that I have had, I have never tried to make a tape on it though. Nice looking deck, I like the blue level meters.

I have been listening to my "new" 650 quite a bit lately. I agree it sounds pretty good. As good as my Teac Z-6000 which I use as my benchmark deck.Clean sound and easy to adjust, the only deck I have that I prefer using the Dolby B on. Though, if the 950 is available, I might think about that one, though I haven't heard it myself. Though, 25 is cheap to get a deck to play around with, and 45 is more like a small investment. Depends on how much you will use it I suppose. If you keep your eyes out though, you should be able to find a deck for 10 bucks or less at the local thrifts. Onkyo Integra decks are very good, and I have heard good things on the larger Yamaha decks, which both are in the 5-15 dollar range any day of the week.

I want to thank ALL of you for the responces. BUT I do have a question now...... Does ANYONE know how the large drive belt is put on. I picked up a 650 for $5 at Goodwill in EXCELLANT condition, justs needs a NEW belt. and I dont know how its supposed to "wind" thru the rollers. also, does anyone know where to get a belt for it? I again thank ALL of you....ANY input would be SO helpful. I wish I had the manual....:)

Hi Michael

You can order a new belt from Bob in Colorado.
Bob@vintage-electronics.net
To replace it the back-plate need to come off so you can reach the flywheel.
Locate a service manual if you feel unsafe taking it apart.

Good Luck Michael.:)