Sony VO-2600 U-Matic Overview

OK, I’ve always wanted a U-Matic video player/recorder in the collection. Stumbled upon this Sony VO-2600 from 1972 at an estate sale, which was inoperable when first powered up and attempted use, but it came to life after applying silicone grease, movement of all gears and parts, rubber restoring, head cleaning and general maintenance.

Seems to work good, it could use new belts, also probably has a number of adjustments which are off. This is 100% original meaning the capacitors in all components are at the factory spec.

I think the recording will not show the picture all that well, but in general once this is running for a little bit it’s not even noticeable that there’s color or tracking fluctuation. Also, I’m not sure what condition this tape is in, it came with the unit.