Sony SL-C7
Description
The Sony SL-C7 was the international version of the Japanese SL-J7, released in spring 1980. It was similar in appearance to the SL-C5 but vastly superior in features, with a hi-tech design that concealed controls behind tuck-away flaps. It was one of the first home VCRs to offer picture search with variable slow motion, full infrared remote control, and full-color cue/review. The SL-C7 featured linear stereo sound (inherited from the SL-J7), a 4-event 14-day timer, and APS index marking. Later production units (identified by an embossed Beta logo on the front flap) could interface with the Beta Stack automatic cassette changer. The SL-C7 used the "C" chassis shared with the SL-C5, SL-T7, and SL-T9. Regional variants included the SL-C7E (Europe), SL-C7EC (Switzerland/Austria), SL-C7EI, SL-C7F (France), SL-C7SA (South Africa), SL-C7UB (United Kingdom), SL-C7ME (Middle East), and SL-C7MER. There was no direct NTSC equivalent; the contemporary American model was the SL-5800 "Time Commander."