Sharp VZ-2000

The Sharp VZ-2000 is a monster in both size and weight. 738mm wide, 459mm tall, and 193mm deep. Weighing more than 35 lbs (and that's without batteries), it's not meant for someone with a bad back. It even has 5 rubber feet to soften its impact on the ground. Its linear tracking turntable was certainly responsible for much of that weight.

Some of these models were silver and black, while others were silver and blue (with red cone woofers). We don't know why there were two different versions. Perhaps one was intended for other countries. There was also a Japanese domestic version called the VZ-V2.

Sound quality is very good. It has 16cm woofers and 5cm tweeters in a bi-amplified format, with separate amps for the woofers and tweeters. The crossover frequency is 3kHz. The turntable helps isolate the speakers, improving the stereo separation. The tape deck was pretty good for a boombox, with Dolby and Metal settings, and a wow and flutter of only 0.065% WRMS.

The service manual is available HERE
Replacement slider knobs are available HERE

Common problems:
1) The turntable belt breaks and must be replaced.
2) The turntable cover is easily scratched, due to its large size and prominent location.
3) The slider controls often break off and get lost. Some people have used a 3D printer to make new ones. (see link above)
4) The slider controls often develop contact problems, and must be cleaned correctly.
5) If you don't get any sound, check the INT/EXT speaker switch on the back.