To further maintain recording accuracy, the 1000 incorporates a switchable multiplex filter. Unlike the various Dolby systems, which require encoding and decoding, the Dynamic noise limiter (DNL) used by Nakamichi in the 1000 works on playback only and reduces noise by as much as 10 dB. The Dolby-B system reduces tape hiss on tapes recorded on the 1000 by as much as 10 dB at the highest frequencies. To ensure the best response from the wide variety of tapes available adjustment of, sensitivity, to optimum levels can be performed prior to recording. Playback speed may be adjusted with pitch control. Full-logic transport controls used on the 1000 let it respond to the slightest finger contact for fast and effortless transport function selection. Level meters used on the 1000 are analog needle VU reading meters. Tape eject is operated mechanically and the cassette needs to be placed with the side to be played facing forward in the cassette well which is opened by a damped mechanism.
Typical front loading cassette deck with the cassette compartiment located on the left side of the deck.
The main features of the Nakamichi 1000 are: 3 heads and off-tape monitoring, analog 3 digit tape counter and memory stop, manual tape type selection with support for normal and chrome tapes, belt driven dual-capstan transport. The Nakamichi 1000 is a stereo cassette deck with Dolby B and DNL noise reduction, it was introduced by Nakamichi in 1973 with a list price of USD $1,300 and discontinued 4 years later in 1977.