Test Review #1
Sometimes having a large variety might be helpful.
Tape Sony UX-S (1988)
Bias High (IEC Type II)
Song Phil Collins - "Sussudio"
Cassette Deck Pioneer CT-W910R
Noise Reduction Used C
Date of Test July 2, 2009
Source Compact Disc
  When looking for the best tape to use for my third and latest dance mix, I looked upon the Sony UX-S first. When I did the second mix, I attempted to use the UX-S originally, but turned to a Denon DX3, which sounded great. Well, again, my attempt to use this tape fell to second again thanks to the performance of a TDK HX-S. I wanted to do this test on some music to see what this tape can actually do.

  I wanted to use some popular 80's music not just because I am an 80's fan, but most music from the 80's was recorded with great range. This usually gives me the chance to better give the tapes a good test. My decision to pick this song was nothing really. It was what I had on a mix disc. I thought this would be a fine choice.

  The UX-S, along with the UX, of this era had the most unusual reels to them. I live the two-tone spools (black and tan) and how they spin. It give it a unique look. One noticable from across the room. The shell window is the usual standard Sony look that has always existed. You come to know this window right up until the UX series demise in the late 90's. Of course the build is solid. Very sturdy shell casing as also the Norelco style case built well too.

  In the actual recording, I set the levels at about +3 to +5dB. The deck I am using goes up to +8db, usually best for higher end Metal. The song utitlzes some good bass and that is a good test point for this tape since I am trying to test the full range of the UX-S. Song starts out with some good eletronic drums and eventually, it's basically a full blown pop song.

  The results were pretty good overall. The UX-S maintained the +3 to +5db range. There are no drops in detail, and the treble makes up for anything else giving it a great range. So, the clarity is there with deeper bass. However, because of the bass being deeper, it would generally mean that the overall levels are lower in the result. The overall change in range is nonexistant. This doesn't mean it's a bad thing. The UX-S produces a richer bass to give it a deeper feel. Yet, it still maintains the level from the source.

Results in Recording

   These are some things that happen in recording. Level range is what happens if noise reduction lowers the levels making a larger or shorter range. This can be good with some songs. Classical music can be ruined with this method making the tame unsuitable for recording such music. Distortion is if the recorded range (with level change or not) does not suit the tape well, causing distortion in the final recording.

Level Change 0 db
Level Range None (smooth all the way through)
Distortion None

Score Results

   Certain criteria are met in determining the "average joe's" take on how a cassette should perform. Here are the final findings based on the music used and the cassette deck that did the recording. Different results will happen on each cassette deck used as all cassette decks are not the same. Numbers are on a 10 point system and half points can be rewarded. Points total to 60.

Mechanical Noise 9
Build 7
Bass 8
Mids 7
Treble 8
Recording Range 8
TOTAL SCORE 47

Final Notes

  Overall, this tape is great. The only thing that worried me was the bass, but usually the average person won't notice that. The Sony UX-S is best for vinyl applications and music with minimal bass, unless you like deeper bass in your music that already has good bass. I love this tape in general. One of the best I have ever used from Sony.

  Also, please keep in mind that the information is as accurate as my experience allows me. Different cassette decks produce different results. I make sure I maintain my equipment to optimum performance. Your opinion with this cassette and your experience with this cassette may differ as well. If you have any questions, please E-mail me.

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