Chasing Unicorns.

We have all heard of mythical creatures such as the Unicorn,
Yeti, (Abominable Snowman), Loch Ness Monster, and Bunyip etc.

I have managed to locate such a supposed creature of myth.
The AWA/Thorn AT-1 Video Cassette Recorder.

Since its first reported sighting in 1978, I have heard rumours of the creature, but never seen one myself to prove its existence.

Well now the wait is over. I recently saw the carcass of one, and took it home. Mine is serial number 253 so I guess that the initial import was for 500 units.

The machine, being so early, is naturally a piano-key
top-loader, and quite basic. There is no remote control of any functions at all. The audio in and out sockets are DIN rather than of the R.C.A. type. The aerial connections are a sight to behold.

Features: It looks to have a 1 program 1 day timer. I will have to investigate that after I get some belts for it. The belts that I removed tended to not return to their round shape. It has an audio dub function and a 1\4 inch mic socket. I guess that Automatic fine tuning would be considered as a feature.

There appears to be only a tape pause function no still picture. That can be added with a later video head and some help from a service manual.

The scarce information I have of this model state that it is very close to the JVC HR-3300A I'm not sure how close, as they are listed as having different belt kits.

I think that I will call it Otzi, after the iceman found in the Italian Alps, 5,00 years after his death.

That will have to do for now.

Wayne.

Photos uploaded.

It's made by Mitsubishi, and yes I have seen one years ago. It was a runner too.
That was Mitsubishi's first VCR and yes, it's based on the JVC 3300.