Since the early days we've made hand wind audio players, and we still have limited supplies of the Messenger II hand-crank cassette players.
The "Messenger II" is a mono cassette player that is powered by turning a handle. It is designed to operate primarily where there are no batteries or other sources of power available, however it also has a socket for connection to an external power source such as a 6 volt DC battery pack or eliminator. Very low power consumption of about 1.2W at full volume also makes it ideal for use with solar panels. A model is also available which has an AC socket to plug it into a mains supply.
The crank handle is coupled via gears to a generator, which supplies electrical power to operate the machine. The output is regulated so the machine plays at the correct speed regardless of how fast the handle is cranked, provided it is above a minimum level.
Piano style keys operate the Play, Fast Forward, Rewind and Stop functions. These keys are colour-coded (Green, Yellow, Blue, Red) for easy identification.
The machine does not record.
"Messenger" players are strongly built, incorporating a zinc-coated steel chassis and many metal parts. The case is made from tough ABS plastic, with beige top and brown bottom. Reliability and serviceability are high priorities in the design and manufacture of these players. They are assembled by trained volunteers at our facilities in Sydney, and sold at a heavily subsidised price for missionaries and indigenous churches.
The player comes with a spare parts kit which includes belts, screws etc. Additional parts are available at reasonable prices.
Specifications
Amplified power: 0.25W
Frequency response: 300Hz-9kHz
Ext speaker socket: 8ohms
Ext power socket: 6V DC
Optional 110/240V AC
Size: 305mm x 135mm x 90mm
Accessories
External Battery Holder: Holds 4 'D' Cells (Batteries not included).