• The Nakamichi 480 is a two-head stereo cassette deck, meaning it uses one head for both recording and playback, which was typical for its price range at the time. It features Dolby-B noise reduction for better sound clarity in recordings.
• It includes soft-touch controls for easy operation and analog VU meters for monitoring recording and playback levels. The deck supports playback and recording on normal, chrome, and metal tapes with manual equalisation selection.
• It sports a dual-capstan transport system, which helps in maintaining consistent tape speed, thus ensuring high-fidelity playback and recording.

• Heads: Utilises Nakamichi’s RP-9E record/replay head and E-8L erase head, contributing to its superior sound quality.
• Transport: The mechanism is belt-driven with two precision capstans, enhancing tape stability. However, it’s noted that the belts, especially the capstan belt, can wear out over time, affecting performance.
• requency Response: Offers a good frequency response, claimed to be from 20 Hz to 20 kHz.
• Noise Reduction: Equipped with Dolby-B for reducing tape hiss by up to 10 dB at high frequencies.
• Manual Features: Manual tape type selection and a manual MPX filter for removing the 19kHz pilot tone from FM broadcasts during recording

The Nakamichi 480, offers a blend of affordability (within the vintage market) and sound quality that can still compete with many modern cassette decks when properly serviced. Its appeal lies in its robust build, sound quality, and nostalgic value for those who appreciate high-quality analogue audio equipment.