Maxell UD - 2026 - JP
DU‑60U / UD‑60U — Maxell × Disk Union (2025)
A Japan‑only Type I cassette produced under a Maxell license and distributed by Denkyosha. Released August 21, 2026. The DU‑60U blends classic Maxell UD heritage with Disk Union branding, and the shell design is strikingly reminiscent of early‑80s TDK geometry, a fun surprise for collectors. Solid ferric performance, thick “easy‑in/easy‑out” case, and excellent modern build quality. A short‑run release available only through Disk Union stores.
Note 1: 60 Minutes: A Box-fresh cassettes just arrived from the Japanese record "disk UNION" stores a few days ago. Sept 2026. Less than 10 available. Limit 1 per customer
Collector's Corner: One was recently sold on eBay. See listing: eBay item number: 336762954807. $57 + $15 Shipping. I do not expect to see any more of these tapes to come through of these dU UD-60 tapes. I ordered 20, they sent me 12... They had no more and insist it is a limited run. I reckon they will come up with more in the future, but probably different somehow (?), C90? Different colours (?) Different model name, UD-I (?!). No idea.
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About the Maxell × Disk Union Partnership
Maxell has recently begun licensing its classic audio brands to select Japanese companies interested in preserving and reviving analog culture. One of the most visible collaborations is with Denkyosha Co. Ltd. and Disk Union, the long‑standing Tokyo record‑store chain known for championing physical media. Together, they produce small‑batch, Japan‑made ferric cassettes that draw directly from Maxell’s UD heritage while introducing modern packaging and retail support.
The DU‑60U (also labelled UD‑60U) is a result of this partnership: a licensed Maxell UD‑series tape manufactured by Denkyosha and styled in Disk Union’s black‑and‑red aesthetic. Although not officially documented, the shell design closely resembles early‑1980s TDK geometry, giving the release a nostalgic authenticity that collectors immediately recognize. This collaboration allows Maxell’s legacy in consumer recording media to continue in limited, boutique runs aimed at enthusiasts, musicians, and archivists.