and SL-T9ME (not pictured)
This is a 3-system (PAL/SECAM/NTSC 4.43) deck that is based on the SL-C5. Unlike its 'big brother' the C7, there is no support for the BetaStack autochanger (it will fit, but not work). Picture search and still frame are available but are black-and-white only. There is no slow or X3 play, and only a one-event timer. Strangely there is a TV/VCR switch - almost superfluous. Wired remote control (RM-75T) is an optional accessory.
The main attraction of this machine is that it is multi-system. Aimed a customers in the Middle East where broadcasts from more than one country can be received, it will record and play in PAL and SECAM as well as play NTSC pre-recorded tapes. Selection of colour system and even AC mains supply voltage (110-240v) is fully automatic. No adjustment is necessary nor provided for.
The auto-voltage feature is very thoughtful of Sony. I have to admit to 'blowing' another VCR due to not checking its voltage selector setting. The auto colour system is less useful. I've noticed that once in a while it flips from PAL to SECAM and back again a moment later when recording PAL-UK broadcasts, causing a momentary loss of colour on the recording. This is not a serious fault and indeed it may be due to a weak TV signal where I live, but none of my other Betamaxes seem to do this. Another problem is that the NTSC output is non-standard (NTSC 4.43). It will work with an older multisystem monitor, but gives only black-and-white pictures on my Panasonic W1 system converter.
The Sony SL-T9ME is an upgraded model. Looking very similar to the SL-T7ME,
it comes with an infra-red remote control (with plug-in IR receiver) and
supports NTSC BIII (slow-speed) for both recording and playback. The SL-T7ME
only plays NTSC BII tapes.
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