Original 1979 Sony TPS-L2 with MDR-3L2 Headphones & Carry-Case - Working
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Condition: Used
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30-day returns, buyer pays return shipping1979 Sony TPS-L2 Portable Cassette player with MDR-3L2 headphones and Leather Carry Case
Designed by Akio Morita, Masaru Ibuka and Kozo Ohsone of Sony Corporation. Made in Japan. Serial No. 38929. Pre-branding model with printed 'Listen' REW/REVIEW' and FWD/CUE labels (these labels were embossed after about 40,000 units). Excellent working and cosmetic condition, all seems to work as it should but please be realistic in terms of sound quality, this is 46 years old. Drive belts and headset foams have been replaced. Please inspect photos carefully.
The Sony TPS-L2 was launched in Japan in July 1979 before it had even been given a name. Across the world, the device was marketed under names such as Soundabout (US), Stowaway (UK) Freeway (Scandanavia) before Sony settled on 'Walkman' later in 1979 (adding it to the metal casing after about 150,000 units had been produced).
Many believe the development of the lightweight MDR-3L2 headphones was equally as important as the player design itself in ensuring the success of the TPS-L2. Distributors struggled to cope with demand, and within ten years of its release, 50 million Walkmans had been sold.
Amazingly, the TPS-L2 has two headphone jacks that enabled friends to listen together whilst the Hotwire button served as an intercom. Interest in the Sony TPS-L2 has surged after featuring in the Marvel Comics film Guardians of the Galaxy - with Cosplay enthusiasts seeking an original TPS-L2 to complete their Star-Lord costumes.
| Playable Media Format | Cassette Tape |
|---|---|
| Brand | Sony |
| Type | Portable Cassette Player |
| Model | tps-l2 |
| Features | Cassette Tape |
|---|---|
| Audio Outputs | Headphone Jack |
| Colour | Blue |
| Product Line | Walkman |