TDK BEAM 2 (1998 JP) Cassette Tape

TDK BEAM 2 Cassette Description

The TDK BEAM 2 (1998 Japanese-market edition) is a high-bias blank cassette with a Light Charge System covering luminous mechanism components, labels, and index areas. The design combines a visible afterglow with a way to read recording titles in low light.

The Light Charge System

Light exposure charges the phosphorescent components. Once the cassette is in darkness, they gradually release the stored energy as a visible glow. The luminous label and index areas extend that idea to identifying your recordings.

TDK summarizes the BEAM concept with 光る、見える、強い音。: “It glows. You can see it. Strong sound.” For this edition, the visibility message applies to both the cassette mechanism and the title areas. The final phrase is TDK’s promotional language; it does not establish a numerical output level or an improvement over another BEAM version.

TDK BEAM 2 Technical Specifications

• Tape type: Type II, high bias
• Playback equalization: 70 µs
• Condition: Factory-sealed new old stock
• Distinctive feature: Luminous mechanism components, labels, and index areas

Which recording position should I select?

Select High or Type II on decks with manual tape selection. Use your recorder’s recommended procedure for setting recording level and calibration.

What makes the cassette glow after the light is removed?

The effect is phosphorescence. Solid pigment particles absorb light energy and release it over time. These particles are usually contained within plastic or a dried ink or coating; the exact material used in this edition is not specified in the available product information.

Is this newly made or new old stock?

It is factory-sealed new old stock from the 1998 edition. The original seal has been retained, so the tape has not been opened or play-tested.