
CTR-83 Comparison
| photo | price | summary | rating |
|---|---|---|---|
![]() | $18.65 | Condition is Used, VTG Realistic Radio & Cassette Tape Player CTR-83 Model 14-758 Great Antenna, shipping cost = $7.95 | 99.3% |
![]() | $24.98 | Condition is Used, Vintage 1989 Realistic CTR-83 Cassette Recorder Working - Missing Battery Back, shipping cost = $14.95 | 100.0% |
![]() | $27.99 | Condition is Used, Realistic Triple Play Ctr-83. Cassette Triple Play / Am/fm Ac Or Battery, shipping cost = $16.45 | 100.0% |
![]() | $39.99 | Condition is Used, Realistic Radioshack CTR-83 Model No. 14 - 758 AM/FM Works, Tape does Not, shipping cost = $15.00 | 100.0% |
| photo | price | summary | rating |
|---|---|---|---|
![]() | $12.00 | Condition is Good, Vintage 1989 Realistic CTR-83 AM/FM Mono Radio Cassette Recorder Owner s Manual, shipping cost = $1.63 | 100.0% |
| photo | price | summary | rating |
|---|---|---|---|
![]() | $25.00 | Condition is New, Belt kit for audio video cassette Realistic CL CTR LAB MIN by model *bin 3 of 3*, shipping cost = $14.32 | 98.9% |

The Realistic CTR-83 AM/FM Tape Deck, model number 14-758, is a vintage radio from Radioshack that offers a unique blend of classic design and functional radio features. This compact tape deck is a must-have for audiophiles, collectors, or anyone who appreciates the nostalgia of listening to music on analog tape.
Measuring approximately 11.5 inches long, 7 inches wide, and 4 inches high, the CTR-83 boasts a sleek and compact design that is perfect for any desktop or shelf. Its black and silver finish gives it a timeless look, while the control panel features intuitive knobs and buttons for easy operation.
The heart of the CTR-83 is its high-quality AM/FM radio tuner, which allows you to listen to your favorite local and national radio stations with crystal-clear sound. The radio also includes a built-in cassette player with Dolby NR noise reduction, ensuring that your favorite recorded tapes sound great even with background noise.
The CTR-83's tape transport mechanism is smooth and reliable, with a conveniently located ejection button for easy tape loading and unloading. The radio also includes a headphone jack for private listening, and an external speaker jack for connecting to external speakers.
The control panel of the CTR-83 is intuitive and easy to use, with large, well-marked buttons and knobs for tuning, volume, and playback control. The radio also includes a conveniently located power switch, making it easy to turn on and off.
The CTR-83 offers a range of convenient features for modern listening, including an automatic station seek function, a digital tuning readout, and a sleep timer that allows you to set the radio to turn off after a predetermined amount of time.
In summary, the Realistic CTR-83 AM/FM Tape Deck, model number 14-758, is a high-quality vintage radio from Radioshack that offers a unique blend of classic design and modern features. With its powerful AM/FM radio tuner, reliable tape transport mechanism, and convenient controls, this compact tape deck is a must-have for any audiophile, collector, or anyone who appreciates the nostalgia of listening to music on analog tape.
The Radioshack CR-83 CTR-Logic AM/FM Tape Deck, model number 14-758, is a retro audio device that has gained popularity among hobbyists, collectors, and audiophiles. Here are some potential pros and cons to consider before making a purchase.
Pros:1. Authentic Retro Design: The CR-83 provides an authentic 1980s audio experience with its classic design and controls, making it an attractive addition to any vintage setup.
2. Wide Frequency Range: The AM/FM radio offers a wide frequency range to tune in to your favorite local and international stations.
3. Tape Deck Functionality: The integrated cassette tape deck allows for recording and playing back audio on cassette tapes, providing a nostalgic listening experience.
4. Easy-to-Use Controls: The simple and intuitive controls make it easy for users to navigate through various functions.
5. Decent Sound Quality: The CR-83 offers a decent sound quality for its price point, making it suitable for casual listening and hobbyist purposes.
Cons:1. Limited Features: The CR-83 is a basic audio device and lacks advanced features such as Bluetooth connectivity, equalizers, or digital displays.
2. Cassette Tapes: The use of cassette tapes can be limiting as they can degrade over time and can be difficult to find in today's digital age.
3. Potential Durability Issues: As with any vintage or retro device, there may be durability issues that can affect performance and longevity.
4. Size and Weight: The CR-83 is larger and heavier than modern audio devices, making it less portable and more difficult to transport.
5. Power Consumption: The device consumes more power than modern audio devices, which can be a concern for those looking to save on electricity costs.
Conclusion:The Radioshack CR-83 CTR-Logic AM/FM Tape Deck offers a unique and nostalgic listening experience with its retro design and tape deck functionality. However, it comes with limitations such as a lack of advanced features and potential durability issues. It may not be suitable for those who require a modern, feature-rich audio device, but for hobbyists, collectors, and those who appreciate the authenticity of retro technology, the CR-83 can be an enjoyable and worthwhile investment.
Recommendation:If you are looking for a retro audio device with a tape deck for nostalgic purposes or as a hobbyist project, the Radioshack CR-83 CTR-Logic AM/FM Tape Deck can be a great addition to your collection. However, if you require advanced features or a more portable, modern audio device, you may want to consider other options in the market.
Details:
Am/fm tuning does work, but I have to press a little on the speaker for higher volumes that may be loose or corroded wire. Antenna extends fully see pics and works. See video for more details about the tape deck not working. Wear on the speaker is visible, not in perfect condition.
It likely can be repaired, but no sound comes out while in tape mode. Battery compartment looks clean and free of corrosion, not tested.
specifications vintaspeaker:
- brand: Realistic
- mpn: Ctr-83
- model: Realistic Radioshack Ctr-83
- part type: Tape
- country/region of manufacture: Philippines
seller vintaspeaker:
- city: chicago, illinois
- # reviews: 81
- rating: 100.0%
offer vintaspeaker:
- availability: in stock
- best offers: true
- sold #: 15
- in stock #: 5
- started: august 3, 2025
- prices: $12.00–$39.99
- item condition:
- Used
- Good
- New
- options: ship-to-home
general vintaspeaker:
- category: Electronics > Audio Video > Vintage Speakers
returns vintaspeaker:
- policy: no returns
shipping vintaspeaker:
- transit: 4-9 days
- carrier: usps
- type: calculated
- class: expedited
- service: usps priority mail
payments vintaspeaker:
- other
- credit card: discover
- wallet: google-pay
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