Technics Angrom ME - 1985
Technics developed the Angrom line because Matsushita wanted a competitive metal formulation distinct from the metal‑particle (MP) tapes used by Scotch, TDK, Maxell, etc.|
This was essentially Technics’ attempt at a “statement” tape, leveraging their proprietary technology rather than outsourcing it from TDK. Apart from this Angrom line-up, they typically relied on TDK.
What about their Angrom tape formulation?
• Based on ME metal tape, created by evaporating metal in a vacuum so it deposits directly onto the film.
• Marketed as a high‑density, chrome‑coated oxide ME tape with strong durability and wide frequency response.
• ME tape was expensive and difficult to mass‑produce, which is why Angrom tapes were niche and short‑lived.
• Manufactured in Japan and sold as a premium, enthusiast‑level product.
Note 1: 60 Minutes: Only one (1) available. Light to no scuffing.
About Technics:
Technics launched in 1965 as Matsushita’s premium audio brand, first appearing on high‑end loudspeakers before gaining global recognition with its direct‑drive turntables. That engineering mindset carried directly into their cassette‑deck work, where Technics quietly became one of the more innovative Japanese manufacturers.
By the early 1970s, Technics was pushing tape technology ahead of the pack. In 1972 they released the first consumer auto‑reverse deck (RS‑277US), followed in 1973 by the first true three‑head cassette deck, the RS‑279US—years before three‑head designs became standard in serious recording gear. These early milestones set the foundation for the later RS‑B and RS‑AZ series, known for stable transports, clean mechanics, and strong recording performance.
Through the late 1970s and into the 1980s, Technics expanded from entry‑level to high‑end components, but their cassette decks remained standouts: reliable, well‑built machines that consistently outperformed their price class. Even though the brand became most famous for turntables, its contributions to cassette‑deck design helped shape everyday expectations of what good tape performance should be.