Description
Description
The Sony BM-87DST Dictator/Transcriber is a professional cassette machine designed for both recording dictated material and playing it back for transcription. Its control panel is purpose-built for transcription work. It includes dedicated REW, STOP, LISTEN and FF buttons, a tape counter with reset, TAPE SPEED selection between 2.4 and 4.8 cm/s, adjustable SPEED control, REVERSE TIME, TONE and VOLUME controls, as well as an AUTO STOP function. The machine supports electronic LTR index signals, allowing dictated documents to be identified and automatically located during fast-forward or rewind when the Auto Stop function is enabled. Sony also specifies an auto-backspace function that rewinds the tape slightly when playback is stopped, making transcription easier. The BM-87DST uses a 4-track, 2-channel monaural recording system and offers two tape speeds. At 4.8 cm/s it provides normal recording duration, while 2.4 cm/s provides approximately double the recording time. The unit also includes a built-in speaker and connections for dedicated control equipment. Sony's documentation specifies compatibility with the HU-80 hand control unit and a supplied foot control unit. The photographed unit itself does not include these accessories unless separately confirmed.
Product Overview / Key Features
- Sony BM-87DST
- Professional dictator/transcriber
- Cassette-based recording and playback
- Designed for dictation and transcription
- 4-track, 2-channel monaural recording system
- Two tape speeds: 4.8 cm/s and 2.4 cm/s
- Variable playback speed control
- Reverse-time / auto-backspace function
- Auto-stop function
- Electronic LTR index support
- Built-in speaker
- Stereo headphone output
- Tape counter with reset
- REW / STOP / LISTEN / FF controls
- Tone control
- Volume control
- Telephone recording input
- Control-unit connector
- 9V DC operation
- Professional office-oriented design
Sony confirms these features in the BM-87DST operating documentation.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand | Sony |
| Model | BM-87DST |
| Type | Dictator / Transcriber |
| Recording System | 4-track, 2-channel monaural |
| Tape Type | Standard Cassette |
| Tape Speed | 4.8 cm/s / 2.4 cm/s |
| Frequency Response at 4.8 cm/s | 200–8,000 Hz |
| Frequency Response at 2.4 cm/s | 200–5,000 Hz |
| Speaker | Approx. 5.7 cm diameter |
| Power Output | 350 mW at 10% distortion |
| Telephone Pickup Input | Minijack |
| Headphone Output | Stereo minijack, 8–300 ohms |
| Control Unit Connector | Yes |
| Power Requirement | 9V DC |
| Power Consumption | 14W with supplied AC adaptor |
| AC Adaptor | 120V AC, 60Hz |
| Dimensions | Approx. 200 × 70 × 245 mm |
| Weight | Approx. 1.2 kg |
| Variable Tape Speed Range | Approx. -20% to +50% |
| Built-in Speaker | Yes |
| Tape Counter | Yes |
| Auto Stop | Yes |
| Tone Control | Yes |
| Volume Control | Yes |
| Reverse Time Control | Yes |
| Stereo Playback | Yes, through stereo headphones |
| Recording | Yes, designed for dictation |
| Playback | Yes |
| Telephone Recording | Supported with optional adaptor |
| Current Functional Status | Not Verified |
Specifications above are taken from Sony's operating documentation rather than inferred from the photographs.
Cosmetic Condition
Good Vintage / Used Condition
The unit shows visible signs of age and previous use. Visible observations:
- Multiple scratches and scuff marks across the cabinet
- Surface marks on the top panel
- Visible wear around the front controls
- Some discoloration / finish variation consistent with age
- Minor wear around the cassette compartment
- Control labels remain largely legible
- Buttons and sliders appear present
- Cassette door appears intact
- Built-in speaker grille appears intact
- Main cabinet appears structurally complete
There is noticeable cosmetic wear, particularly on the top and front control surfaces, but no major structural damage is obvious from the photographs.
Condition Report
Exterior
The dark gray cabinet shows moderate surface wear, scratches and scuffs consistent with previous professional use.
Front / Control Panel
The Sony branding and control labels are present. The main controls, sliders and transport buttons appear physically intact.
Cassette Mechanism
The cassette holder is shown open. The visible tape transport components appear present, but mechanical operation has not been tested.
Controls
REW, STOP, LISTEN and FF buttons are present. Tape speed, reverse-time, tone and volume controls are also visible.
Display / Indicators
The tape counter and indicator panel are present. Actual illumination and operation have not been verified.
Speaker
The built-in speaker grille is present. Audio output has not been tested.
Connections
The photographed side panel shows a control connection and a headphone/audio connection. Exact operational condition has not been verified.
Power
Sony specifies 9V DC operation using the supplied AC adaptor. The photographed unit's power adaptor is not shown, so its inclusion is not confirmed.
Accessories
The Sony manual specifies a foot control unit, stereo headphones and AC power adaptor as supplied accessories, but none of these should be marked as included based solely on these photographs.
