The walkmancentral link takes you to an interesting little write up, and their comment about the board redesign in later years is interesting. It is incredible how they were able to cram so much 'stuff' into such a small form factor, using predominantly discrete components. The thing still stands up today as a great example of cassette 'done well'. It's main disadvantage, IMO is the lack of a dual-capstan which is so important to really excellent tape transport, allowing the deck to compensate better for poor tape shells.

You're right, Jason, that Michelle Shocked's first album was recorded on one. She disowned the recording though, because it was released without her consent, and as the batteries ran down, the recording speed slowed. But despite her view, it is still a remarkable recording.

Mine cost me £70. That is on the slightly low side; recent eBay sales have finished anywhere between £75 and £150, and there's one chancer with a NOS boxed example for £320