Topic: Nakamichi Cassette Deck repair suggestions?

[popskull]

I have a Nak 700ZXE that needs some love and attention.

Willy Herman and ESL are the two names that keep popping up on the internet.

Has anyone had any experience working with these firms? or any other firms for NAK repairs?

Thanks!

[gdplusmore]

I used ESL about a year ago when the controls on my BX-300 would not function...I did not go for total restoration but they
did fix the controls and gave it a tune up...it still cost me around 400-500.. they due have a decent customer response with detailed instructions on how to ship etc..and you can call or email..

 

[Angstroms]

I did not want to start a new thread if there was already one out there, but I have an old Nak Dragon that needs an overhaul can anyone recommend a good place? Obviously, I have been to ESL's site but just wanted to know if anyone else has had good work done here. Or other places.

[keytohwy]

I did not want to start a new thread if there was already one out there, but I have an old Nak Dragon that needs an overhaul can anyone recommend a good place? Obviously, I have been to ESL's site but just wanted to know if anyone else has had good work done here. Or other places.

Willy Herman.  He lives 15 minutes from me and I've met him personally at his house/workshop.  He does amazing work.  I was in need of a deck for a small project and had initially asked if he had any Dragons to sell/rent.  He simply gave me one to use until I was done.  No rental, no paperwork, just the trust of a handshake.  Ends up his wife is a bit of a fan of an artist I'm into, so I hooked him up with some CDs. 

Anyway, nice guy, solid work, and trusted by the big boys (he had just done 20 Dragons for Sony's archive house).

My $.02
keytohwy

[H₂O]

What is the typically cost of a tune up - $400-500 is a bit steep IMO

[OOK]

What is the typically cost of a tune up - $400-500 is a bit steep IMO

Not really considering the value of these machines and how intricate they are.  All those moving parts, taken apart, lubed and put back together I am sure it is very time consuming. I have always marveled how all those moving parts worked together to make the music roll. cassette decks were works of machenical art.   

[H₂O]

Looks like I will have to fix mine myself if it ever breaks down

I taught myself to repair my DAT decks

I just have a DR-1 so I doubt it is anywhere as complex as the Dragon or other older Nak's