Citizen 5" color VHS Combo unit.

[waltchan]

I just ordered this new, open-box Citizen VCP-5MU on eBay last week for about $65 shipped. It was assembled by Japan CBM corporation (parent of Citizen Japan), with Hitachi 5" CRT screen, plus Akai VHS mechanism chassis. This Akai mechanism uses a unique nylon-tooth polystyrene loading belt, so it never needs replacing. It does use two flywheel capstan belts. Only two belts total. It plays only in SP mode.

http://studiosoundelectronics.com/mbk-19.htm

I would rate this Citizen 5" VCP monitor more-reliable than Hitachi's own version of it with the dreaded 6-belt mechanism chassis, so it's worth repairing the Akai mechanism with new belts and new tire. In addition, Consumer Reports would also rate Akai VCRs more-reliable than Hitachi too from 1992 survey, based on 1987 median-age models, if there ever was a rating for Akai.

Have you ever seen this Akai VCR mechanism before for service?

[waltchan]

Originally Posted by lnx64

How many heads does the drum have?

This one is 2-head mono.

[waltchan]

Originally Posted by dishdude

It's probably a Goldstar made unit.

It's made in Japan, so you know it's not made by Goldstar.

[colorfixer]

These were made by Shinjyo General or later Funai in Japan. The name Citizen on these has nothing to do with the Citizen Watch Co., it's a name that was owned by Jutan International in Canada.

They were also branding under "Concerto" (Goldstar) and "Juliette" (multiple manufacturers).