Want a very common looking, reliable and good tape recorder?And one with a not-so-high price tag?Then look no further than the BPL S7243.You get a well-built machine with somewhat dated looks.Though the curves try to convince you but they cannot hide a basic layout and concept of the S7243.And atleast mine has a matt-black appearance that makes it look disgustingly common.
But don’t judge this good book by its bland cover.Here lies a very competent machine.Connect it to a suitable power outlet, press the stop/eject button and the cassette-compartment door opens a bit slowly.You insert a cassette, shut the door gently and hit the PLAY button.Now be ready for a pleasant surprise.
The first thing that strikes you is the amazing clarity with which the sound is being played.This is where the 7243 comes in a league of its own, the clear sound it produces doesn’t seem to have any rival.Both the speakers produce equal volume levels and that gives you an unique listening experience.But you miss one thing—a nice bass.Though the bass produced is fair, still, I feel it is on a lower side.
Besides the volume and tone controls(round knobs) a flat function switch for tape functioning mode(radio/tape) a band selector, there isn’t much gizmos in the tape recorder.The radio sounds are quite clear and you can’t really make out whether you are listening to your favourite radio station or a cassette.
The quality of the control buttons leaves a lot to be desired;they have that typical plasticky feel.Better BPL provides the 7243 with cool chrome coloured switches.That would enhance the presence of the machine.Also the volume and tone control knobs can be pulled out from the stalks with a little effort and this shouldn’t be the case.
Besides all these, there is not much to complain about.You get a decent machine with a decent performance, good reliability and nice sound reproduction.Add to that a mouth-watering price tag of just around Rs 2200/- (in India)and the 7243 becomes an absolute steal.Squeeze the dealer for discounts and you get almost Rs 200/- off.What more can you ask for?
At around Rs2000/-, the 7243 doesn’t have any competition.A genuine and nice machine at such a low price is a good deal.Sign that cheque and rush to your nearest BPL dealer now to grab one!I recommend this model to anyone with a tight budget.