M90 Tape Sound issue

So I got a M90, Tape deck works and plays tapes, however the sounds seems so mono and sounds like you are listening to it over a phone. Not really sure where to look at this point, something may have gotten knocked around during shipping. The sound via the Radio seems ok.

The same tapes that sound so bad in the M90 sound fine in other players.

Appreciate any help

Thanks

It could be something so simple as cleaning the transport with some rubbing alcohol and a Q-tip.

Try that if it still persist then our members here that are more involved into PCB's, Caps, Pots etc... will be of help to you.

Sounds more like the head alignment is off. You can adjust it by ear & get it to sound a lot better. There is a set screw on the head that adjusts position. You have to look close to see which of the two screws holding the head to the transport is adjustable.

Cpl

yeah if that deck sounds anything less than spectacular then there's a problem .like stated before the azimuth could be off or if there is any slack in the belts then the tape head won't press fully against the tape .

The real tricky part to adjusting the head alignment is getting the door off without cracking it. It takes a bit of finesse & slight force to remove the door....

Cpl

My screwdriver fits under the door. Didn't even know it was possible to take the door off.

Thanks for the tips. Will check this all out once i get it somewhat put back together after the body work im doing is done.

If possible use a plastic screw driver.
A gentle touch with any sort of residual magnetism left on the metal screwdriver will mess up the head or else you have to demagnetize it.