The iconic Akai GX - 77 reel - to - reel tape recorder The GX - 77 was produced from 1981 to 1985 .
The GX - 77 was compact compared to competitors recorders .
It also cost less than other novelties of that time - $ 775.
By comparison , the Akai GX 747 was released the same year and sold for $ 1,200 .
Thus , the GX - 77 was a more affordable reel - to - reel tape recorder .
The model is also known for its appearance.
For the design of the player in 1982, the creators were awarded the Japanese Good Design Award.
The GX - 77 is praised for its ease of use and good sound quality .
Therefore, tape recorders were in demand, and on eBay you can still find for sale both the devices themselves and their components.
GX - 77 did not receive further development .
In 1985, Akai completely ceased production of OPEN reel-to-reel phonophones.
