Description

Description

The National Panasonic RQ-321S is a vintage portable cassette recorder from Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd., Japan. The unit has a distinctive period design with a textured dark-gray/black cabinet, silver control panel and chrome-finished trim. The front panel features a cassette compartment/window, a row of mechanical transport controls and a large integrated speaker occupying the lower section. Controls visible on the unit include cassette transport buttons along with Tone and Volume adjustment sliders. The lower panel also contains audio connection sockets. The rear panel includes the original molded specification plate, ventilation grille, AC voltage selector and battery compartment. The specification plate confirms compatibility with several AC voltage ranges as well as 6V DC operation, making the unit suitable for both mains and battery-powered use. The rear label identifies the manufacturer as Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. and states Made in Japan. The unit shows visible signs of age and use, including scratches and surface wear. Playback, recording, motor, speaker, cassette transport and electrical operation have not been verified from the photographs.

Product Overview / Key Features

• National Panasonic branding
• Model RQ-321S
• Vintage portable cassette recorder
• Made in Japan
• Manufactured by Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.
• Integrated large speaker
• Mechanical cassette transport controls
• Tone control
• Volume control
• AC/DC operation
• Multi-voltage AC selector
• 6V DC operation
• Battery compartment
• Ventilation grille
• Silver/chrome front detailing
• Period textured cabinet finish
• Compact portable form factor

Technical Specifications

Cosmetic Condition

Good Vintage Condition

The recorder shows clear signs of age and previous use. Visible observations:

• Multiple surface scratches and scuffs
• Scratches along the side panels
• Minor marks on the rear casing
• Some wear to the black plastic finish
• Chrome trim remains present
• Silver front panel shows signs of age
• Speaker grille appears intact
• Cassette control buttons are present
• Battery compartment doors are present
• Original labels and markings remain visible

There is noticeable cosmetic wear, but the main cabinet appears structurally intact.

Condition Report

Exterior

The black/dark-gray cabinet has visible scratches, scuffs and age-related wear, particularly around the side and rear panels.

Front Panel

The National Panasonic branding and silver control panel are present. The cassette compartment and mechanical controls are visible.

Controls

The cassette transport buttons appear physically present. Their mechanical and electrical operation is Not Verified.

Speaker

The large integrated speaker grille is present. Audio output is Not Verified.

Cassette Mechanism

The cassette compartment is present. Playback, recording, fast-forward, rewind and motor operation are Not Verified.

Power

The rear specification plate confirms multi-voltage AC and 6V DC operation. Actual electrical functionality has Not Been Tested.

Battery Compartment

Battery compartment access is visible on the rear. Battery terminals and internal condition are Not Verified.

Voltage Selector

The rear panel has a visible 220V / 250V voltage selector.

What's Included

Included / Visible

• National Panasonic RQ-321S cassette recorder
• Built-in speaker
• Built-in cassette mechanism
• Original control panel
• Rear battery compartment
• Integrated AC voltage selector