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Vintage Sony SQD-1000 SQ 4-Channel Quadraphonic Decoder
Offered here is a vintage Sony SQD-1000 solid-state SQ quadraphonic decoder from the very beginning of the 1970s four-channel audio era. This example has been tested and is fully functional and is in very good overall cosmetic condition.
The SQD-1000 was designed to decode CBS/Sony SQ matrix-encoded two-channel recordings into four output channels for reproduction through a quadraphonic speaker system.
About the Sony SQD-1000
Introduced in the early 1970s, the SQD-1000 was one of Sony\'s first dedicated consumer SQ decoders. SQ was a matrix quadraphonic system in which four-channel information could be encoded into the two channels of a conventional stereo record.
When connected to suitable amplification and four speakers, the SQD-1000 reconstructs the encoded material into left-front, right-front, left-rear and right-rear audio channels.
The decoder can also provide an Ambient presentation from conventional two-channel sources and includes a discrete four-channel input for compatible four-channel tape or other line-level equipment.
Testing & Functionality
This Sony SQD-1000 has been tested and is fully functional. The unit powers on and operates properly, and its decoding/signal functions and controls are working as expected.
Operating Modes
- 2CH - conventional two-channel operation
- Ambient - four-channel ambient presentation from stereo material
- SQ - decoding of SQ matrix-encoded sources
- 4CH (Tape) - discrete four-channel source operation
Features
- Solid-state SQ matrix quadraphonic decoder
- Four-channel output capability
- Early Sony front/back logic decoding circuitry
- Master four-channel volume control
- Source/Tape monitor switching
- Dedicated SQ decoding mode
- Ambient four-channel mode
- Discrete four-channel tape/source input
- Connections for rear-channel amplification
- 2-channel tape recorder connections
- REC/PB DIN connection
- Brushed silver front panel
- Wood cabinet
- Made in Japan
Technical Specifications
- Frequency response: 10 Hz to 100 kHz
- Signal-to-noise ratio: greater than 80 dB, A-weighted
- Total harmonic distortion: 0.2% or less
- Typical line input sensitivity: 250 mV
- Typical line input impedance: 50 kOhms
- Power requirement for this unit: 120V AC, 50/60Hz
- Power consumption: 5W
System Requirements / Important Note
The SQD-1000 is a decoder and signal processor; it is not a receiver or speaker power amplifier. A complete four-channel installation requires suitable amplification and four speakers.
For a period-style installation, the decoder can be added to a conventional stereo system with additional amplification for the rear channels.
Condition
The unit is in very good overall cosmetic condition for its age. The brushed silver faceplate, controls and wood cabinet present well with light signs of normal age and prior use.
Faint cosmetic markings are visible on the lower-right portion of the front faceplate. Please review the close-up photographs carefully for the best representation of this area and of the unit\'s overall cosmetic condition.
Included
- Sony SQD-1000 SQ Decoder
- Attached AC power cord
Not Included
- Amplifiers
- Speakers
- Audio interconnect cables
- SQ records or tapes
- Manual or original packaging unless specifically pictured
Collector Interest
The SQD-1000 is an interesting survivor from the short-lived but technically significant quadraphonic audio boom of the early 1970s. It is especially relevant to collectors of vintage Sony equipment, Columbia/CBS SQ records and period four-channel audio systems.
The buyer will receive the exact Sony SQD-1000 shown in the listing photographs.
