Well over 100,000 visitors attended the six-day Düsseldorf hi-fi show, held in late September 1977, a record turnout reflecting Germans' growing interest in audio.

While the show was no match for the American Consumer Electronics Show in terms of new equipment, a surprising number of new items did appear, some of which no doubt will be sold on the military market.

Germany has long had hi-fi equipment, of course, but the Düsseldorf show was the first indication of a marketing ground swell for really good equipment. Grundig, one of the major German makers, made a big push for the new market with its "Super-HiFi" lineup, and it wasn't alone.

Cordless headphones using an infrared transmission system, introduced at last year's Berlin hi-fi show, are now being sold in stereo versions by Beyer, Sennheiser and AKG. Price for a complete system is in the $200 range.

Norway's Tandberg is the first firm to offer a receiver with an infrared transmitter built-in. It is designated the TR-2075 Infrared. Still in the headphone department, Beyer's ET-1OOO is the first German-made electrostatic phone on the market. Also from Beyer comes the LSE-1 headphone amplifier with circuits designed to simulate the sound of a loudspeaker.

From Japan, Technics introduced an ambience enhancement unit for headphones, the EAM-30. JVC bowed a binaural headphone/microphone combo, the HM-200E,

Elcaset from SONY
The cassette's big brother, the Elcaset, made its German debut in Düsseldorf. Sony and Wega, the latter Sony's German subsidiary, both showed Elcaset equipment, but the most impressive, and newest, was at the Technics stand.

The RS-7900US is a 4-motor, 4-head unit with Dolby, memory and pitch control, among other features. An optional accessory, the RP-7000, lets you program the Elcaset to start/stop at up to 15 different points. (It makes use of Elcaset's extra programming tracks.) The RS-7500US has 3 heads and 1 motor, tape selector and memory counter. Frequency response for both machines is 25-20k Hz.

In the conventional (Philips-) cassette area, Uher showed its CG 300, a slot-loader with Dolby and tape selector. Technics again grabbed the spotlight with the RS-9900US, a 2-piece, cassette transport/record and playback amplifier design. This 3-motor, 3-head system has a 30-20 Hz response.

In the open-reel division Uher's unique Omega Loop system has found its way into a deck, the SG 630 Logic, a 4-motor design. Technics was in there, too, with the RS-1500U, with "Isolated Loop" drive and plug-in heads.

Philips of Holland has a new open-reel pair, the N 4504 and the N 4506. The latter has more controls than you can shake a stick at, 3 motors, memory, rewinding speed control and built-in preamplifier for use with Philips MFB speakers.

New to Germany were the Akai GX-630D and GX-650D, both with 10 1/2 in. reels, 3 motors, logic controls and tape selectors. Top speed on the 650 is 15 ips. Revox didn't show any new tape machines, but did introduce an operational cover for the A-77 with 10 1/2-in. reels. Also new from the firm was the A 740 stereo power amplifier, with 100 watts rms a channel into 8 ohms, two VU meters and level controls.

In the turntable department Thorens has updated its line, equipping its units with a new tone arm with ultralight shell. Braun showed its PS 550, the firm's first direct drive turntable. ELAC bowed some new record spinners, too, including the PC 870 with Belt-Drive Plus, a rim/belt drive combination.

There was lots more fine new equipment at the show but we don't have the space to cover it all. Why not visit the next show and see for yourself ?

Amsterdam has been added to V Corps' one-day Train Tours program for 1977, making a total of 11 cities in Central Europe. Recreation centers have information about these escorted trips sponsored by Recreation Centers-V Corps working with the German Railroad Travel Service.

While you are stationed in Europe you have an excellent opportunity to study international relations through University of Southern California courses here. In addition to the program's distinguished faculty, each semester provides opportunities for excursions jto international centers such as Brussels, Rome, Paris, Moscow and the Middle East. Further information can be obtained by telephoning USC's centers: (gelöscht)

The Wiesbaden Sports Center, the largest in Europe, will hold a grand opening on Saturday January 8, to celebrate its move into larger quarters.

There will be drawings prior to the ribbon cutting ceremony and prizes to be won include a round trip to New York, 2 trips to a ski resport in Austria as well as a wide range of sports equipment. Festivities begin at 10:30 a.m.
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Have you ever wondered what AAFES is all about? Then perhaps one of the 17 Plain Talk folders available in most AAFES main retail stores could be an eye-opener. Subjects discussed range from check cashing and catalog mail-orders to AAFES diamond qualities and the money saver program.

Customers who do not understand a particular exchange program or procedure are invited to write directly to the Command and Public Relations Division, AAFES Headquarters, Dallas, Texas 75222.

Going hunting in the states in 1977? The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has announced restrictions on the use of lead shot for duck and goose hunting during the 1976-77 waterfowl seasons in designated areas of nine Atlantic Flyway states.

In these areas use of 12 gauge or larger shotgun shells containing lead shot is prohibited. Those hunting with 12 gauge guns will be required to use shells loaded with steel shot. For a period of one year only, during the 1976-77 seasons, those using shotguns smaller than 12 gauge will be permitted to use shells containing lead shot.

Technics has introduced a new 2-speed, direct-drive, semiautomatic turntable into the audio clubs. The SL-1710 features a 'one chip' ic which does away with over 300 transistors, resistors, and diodes. Other features include electronically controlled brush-less DC motor, variable pitch control and built-in strobe display. Flutter and wow 0.025 per cent, rumble -73 dB (weighted). Available now for about $150.

In our December Turntable shopper we did not mention the 9 new ELAC phono pickup cartridges available in the audio clubs. The lineup includes the STS 155-17, a stereo dynamic cartridge with spherical stylus. Frequency response 20-20k Hz, tracking force 1/2 - 2-1/2grams. The STS 555-E is a stereo cartridge with bi-radial stylus, frequency response 10-27k Hz, tracking force |-1 gram. The STS 655-D4 is a stereo/4-channel cartridge with shibata stylus. Frequency response 10-50k Hz, tracking force 1-2 grams. Prices range from about $11 for the STS 155-17 to about $52.50 for the STS 655-D4.

AAFES-Europe has announced that Army and Air Force Exchanges will be offering many Washington's Birthday specials February 18-21. Local managers will be marking down a variety of items in every department. Best buys will be for seasonal merchandise and appliances.

The Sheraton Inns in The Netherlands (at Amsterdam1s Schipol airport and at Geldrop, near Eindhoven) are offering a 25 per cent discount per person to all U.S. military personnel. Just produce a valid ID card. Advance reservations are recommended in peak seasons.

Army audio clubs and some Air Force clubs are participating in a new scheme, the bulk buying program, which will bring additional benefits to members. By buying audio equipment in bulk and storing in the large warehouse at the Wiesbaden Audio Club, customers will be better served by a wider choice of products, quicker delivery and price savings in many cases.

In this way audiophiles in even the smallest clubs are at no disadvantage when it comes to shopping for the best hi-fi available. Epicure, JVC, Kenwood, Pioneer and Technics are a few of the many brands to be included in the program.

Are you looking for a place to relax, get away from it all, listen to music, eat home made bread, learn German? Then you might want to check out the Christian Fellowship Center sponsored by the Pentecostal Church.

Recently opened in a large house near Frankfurt' s Palm Garten, the Center is offering a special welcome to all single persons serving with NATO units. There are private rooms and dormitories as well as a snack bar and garden. A few of the activities planned include rock music groups, German classes and 2-3 day retreats. The Center will operate much like a coffee house. The address is: Frauenlob Strasse 1, located at the corner of Miquel Allee.
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Now that the Federal Communications Commission has given the O.K. to 40 channel citizen band units as of January 1., you can expect to see an increase in new rigs available in the European military market. The clubs and AAFES sound centers will shortly be stocking a new range of Pace CB gear. Prices, from about $95 to $360.

There is still time to make the downhill and cross-country ski races slated for March at the Armed Forces Recreation Center (AFRC) resorts in southern Bavaria. Classes of entry are junior, novice, ladies and open in most races. Scheduled for Sunday, March 6 is a Cross-country race at Garmisch. On Saturday, March 12 Cross-Country, Alpine Combined (slalom and giant slalom) and Standard Slalom will be held in Berchtesgaden and Garmisch. Saturday, March 26 begins with a He & She Slalom in Garmisch, a Special Slalom in Berchtesgaden and closes with a ski jump demonstration by the AFRC ski patrol. For reservations in Berchtesgaden contact AFRC Billeting Office, APO 0902 9. For Garmisch contact AFRC Billeting Office, APO 09053.

The GAF 102A Super 8 movie camera and the GAF 20/20 and 20/2OS pocket cameras have been selected for the Architecture and Design collection of the Museum of Modern Art in New York City. The movie camera was chosen because it represents a compact, functional approach to the way a camera is held in the hand.

The hand comes around the camera in a natural position for wrist and arm, allowing the elbows,to be tucked into the side of the body for maximum steady support. The pocket cameras are designed so every component is functional and easy to use. All three GAF cameras are available through the AAFES 1976-77 Mail Order Catalog.

New from Revox on the military market is the RH 31 stereo headphone. A lightweight design, frequency response is 20-20k Hz, maximum power input 50 milliwatts. The RH 31 has foam ear pieces, a padded headband and a 10-ft. cord. It's available in audio clubs for about $29.

All owners of Marantz and Superscope audio equipment should take note that these products are now being distributed and serviced direct from the factory. According to the manufacturer's agent this re-organization will save time and money for customers. For more information write: Superscope GmbH, Max Planck Str. 22, 6072 Dreieich 1.

What have hi-fi and camera manufacturers been up to lately? To find out make a date to visit the 7th annual audio/photo show hosted by the Ramstein Audio/Photo Club on the weekend of April 2-3. A wide selection of the latest products will be displayed and factory representatives will be on hand to demonstrate their new equipment and answer your questions. The show takes place in the recreation center at Ramstein Air Base. Hours: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.
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A new USO social and recreational center for the American armed forces has recently opened in Wiesbaden, This is the 45th USO facility overseas and the 5th in Germany. The Wiesbaden Center offers American service men and women and their families tours to historic and scenic sites, cultural and shopping orientation, music, sports and recreational activities with German groups. The Center is located on Wiesbaden Air Base in building 21. Open week days from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

With the increasing popularity of audio equalizers for improving the sound of a stereo system, there's growing demand for measuring instruments to use in setting up and adjusting equalizers for optimum performance.

The most elaborate such instrument is a digital frequency analyzer, also called real-time analyzer, which provides a visual read-out of the frequency response curve. Now Shure Brothers offers an economical new method of measuring frequency response in the home.

Called the M-615AS Equalization Analyzer System, it indicates, by means of light-emitting diodes (LEDs), the level of energy in each of ten octave bands. Included is a "pink noise" generator and a special analyzer microphone.

In use, the pink noise is fed into the audio system, and the output from the loudspeakers picked up by the mike for measurement. Then the equalizer controls are adjusted until the analyzer's LEDs indicate the desired frequency response curve. Cost of the Shure M-615AS will be about $350 putting it within reach of audio clubs for rental to members.

The Soundcraftsmen RP 2204 equalizer in our January Special Component Shopper is similar to the Soundcraftsmen RP 2212 but does not have the 2212's test-lite and overload indicator circuits. Soundcraftsmen, Phase Linear and dbx products are available from the EUCOM club, CANEX and the audio clubs.

CROWN / AMCRON prices fixed
Also in our January shopper we published the wrong prices for several Amcron products due to incorrect information received.

Prices should read: Amcron IC-150A preamplifier about $355, the D-60 power amp about $250, the D-150A power amp about $445, the DC-300A power amp about $708, the OC-150 control unit about $300 and the VFX-2 filter/cross-over unit about $285.50. All models are available in the audio clubs.

A professional photo processing service is now available from the Ramstein Audio/Photo Club. Slides, prints, movie film in color and black & white as well as special jobs such as cropping and pushing will be processed quickly and cheaply. Return time is one week or less.

Military owners of Volvo vehicles who ship their cars through MSTS can now get the catalytic converter installed and engine tuned to comply with U.S. regulations. The work will be carried out in Bremen and the cost is about DM 250 (about $105). For further information contact Mr. G.U. Berg, E.H. Harms & Co., Wester-Ems Str. 2, Bremen.

The Neckar Rod and Gun Club will open an annex at Robinson Barracks in the main PX area on May 1. The skeet and trap range will reopen April 1. The club has a new range of equipment in stock to meet all your hunting, fishing and camping needs. Want to know more? Phone Don Weisman at Stuttgart civilian.
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Minolta Cameras has introduced a "Lend-Learn" program at selected audio/photo clubs. Participating clubs will offer a practical, self-help approach to SLR photography in three easy steps: borrow a Minolta camera; receive a free booklet; learn on your own. Check your club for details.

Owners of Aiwa, Senear, Lenco and Bolex audio and photo equipment should note that these products are now distributed and serviced by a new agent in Germany. This reorganization will enable customers to save time and money as well as provide extensive new showrooms. For more information write: Super-Sonic GmbH, Dieselstrasse 13-15, D-6072 Dreieich.

Are you traveling in the Bavarian Alps this summer? The NATO Community Club in Oberammergau announces that its BOQ, dining room and bar are open to all military and civilian ID cardholders. Open daily from 7 a.m. to midnight.

Teac's A-480 cassette deck is now available from PXs for about $195. Frequency response is 30-16k Hz with chrome tape, S/N ratio 65 dB with Dolby, wow and flutter 0.07 per cent. Other features include memory rewind, separate tape bias and equalization selectors.

New Elcaset models
While on the subject of cassette decks, four new Elcasetes are now available through AAFES-Europe outlets. The Elcasete is a larger, more sophisticated version of the standard (Philips) cassette. In regular stock are the Sony EL-5 for $350, the Teac AL-700 for $554 and the Technics RS-7500U for $362. Available by mail order is the Sony EL-7 for $500.

Due to a misprint in the March OFF DUTY CES Report (page 67), the Marantz 2230 receiver should read Marantz 2330,

If you're wondering what to do on Memorial Day, May 30, try boarding the "German Wine Road Train" for a one-day tour along the Rhein and Mosel Rivers to the castle city of Cochem. During the trip, German wines and sandwiches will be available in each train car and there will be dancing in a special car. For more information contact" Laurel Ginsberg at the Rhein-Main Recreation Center, 435th CSG/SSRC, APO 09057 or phone Rhein-Main military 6102.

Now available in the military market is Canton 's Discostat, a dry record cleaner. Similar in design to a tone arm, the manufacturer claims it will remove all dust particles and electrostatic charges on records. Sold in clubs for about $12.

The Craft Shop at Gibbs Kaserne, Frankfurt, will sponsor a tour to Cologne Cathedral on May 8th. The highlight of this trip will be a stone carving demonstration. For further information contact Linda Williams or Robert Rotella at Gibbs military 2312-6263.

Akai's bidirectional front-loading cassette deck, the GXC-730D, includes Dolby noise reduction circuitry, solenoid controls, tape selector, peak level indicator as well as VU meters. Also features Akai's Automatic Distortion Reduction circuit. Available through AAFES outlets for $320. The Akai CS-707D offers memory rewind, peak indicator meters and a three-position tape selector. About $155 in AAFES-Europe.
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"Habla espanol?" Four Spanish-language films are now being shown in selected theatres on the AAFES movie circuit. The films are: "Killer Elite," "Man With the Golden Gun," "Return of the Pink Panther," and "Brannigan." Check your local AAFES movie schedule for further details.

Darkroom hobbyists take note. Germany's largest photo, showing a woodland scene in Berlin's Grunewald, is a gigantic 197 meters long and 7 meters high. Producing this enormous photo was an impressive achievement: the motif, a section of a 13 by 18cm negative, was broken down into 160 fields wich were then enlarged to approximately 100 times orginal size onto "Argenta Chamois" roll paper, processed and tinted sepia brown. The strips were then mounted on chipboard to make up the panorama. AAFES outlets for $320.

The Akai CS-707D. It offers memory rewind, peak indicator meters and a three-position tape selector. About $155 in AAFES-Europe.
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On Saturday, June 25th, a German-American Bicycle Rally will be held at Gelnhausen Recreation Center, Coleman Kaserne. Registration begins at 12:30 and the rally itself starts at 1:30, There will be a first prize of $40 for the best average time. Other prizes will be awarded for the fastest, slowest, youngest and oldest participants. For more information phone Gelnhausen Military 2361-738.

The USAREUR phase of the 7th All-Army Art Contest is currently underway at 95 community craft shops in Italy, Belgium, and Germany. This contest has two divisions (beginner and experienced) with three categories in each (drawing and prints; water colors; and oil and mixed media painting).

Contestants may submit entries at any Recreation Services craft shop for local elimination judging. Winners at these local levels will then be entered in the USAREUR finals which will take place on or about September 15 in Aschaffenburg. For contest details and entry forms go to any Recreation Services craft shop.

Three new items from Technics are now entering the military market. The Technics SL-1600 is a direct-drive automatic turntable with a single integrated circuit chip regulating motor speed. Wow and flutter is 0.025 per cent, rumble -73dB. Its S-shaped tone arm comes complete with a moving magnet cartridge.

The RS-615 is a front-loading stereo cassette deck with Dolby and tape selector. Other features include detented input level controls and timer control provisions. Frequency response is 30-16k Hz with chrome tape, S/N ratio 60 dB, wow and flutter 0.10 per cent.

Finally, the SB-5300A is a 2-way, 2-speaker system using Technics' Linear Phase design. The 12-in. woofer and 2 3/8-in. tweeter can handle a peak input of 100 watts.

The Wiesbaden Audio/Photo Club has announced an in-club International Audio/Photo Show to celebrate the opening of its new enlarged photo room. The all-vendor show will be held June 17th from 11a.m. to 9p.m., June 18th from 10a.m. to 6p.m., and June 19th from 10a.m. to 6p.m. Of special interest will be a complete exhibition of darkroom equipment plus special connoisseur rooms for both photo and hi-fi buffs. For more information telephone Wiesbaden Military 4401-4402.

In the April OFF DUTY cassette deck shopper and in the OFF DUTY HI-FI Annual 1977 the pictures of Akai cassette decks CS-702D and GXC-570D are incorrectly labeled. Each is wearing the caption intended for the other.

Wanted: Sales and promotion person. Knowledge of package goods and military market. English a must. Contact OFF DUTY Publications, Ffm 590805 or send resume, Attn: R. Horowitz.

Preiserhöhung für japanische Produkte
If you have a yen for any of the items of Japanese origin in the AAFES Mail Order Catalog 1977, take note. All Japanese-made products valued at $20 or more appearing in the Far East section of the catalog have increased in price by five per cent. This increase does not apply to current AAFES-Europe stock nor does it apply to the 1977-78 AAFES Mail Order Catalog Preview.

New JVC hi-fi equipment introduced at the Winter CES Show in Chicago is already available in European audio clubs.

Top-of-the-line quartz controlled direct drive turntable QL-10 is available for about $780. Also being offered are the HM-200E binaural headphones for about $60, the KD-2 portable cassette recorder with Super ANRS noise reduction circuitry for about $230, and the JP-S7 equalizer pre-amp for about $530.
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Ms Ann Egerton is leaving the Bitburg audio/photo club this month to return Stateside. Ann is leaving behind a string of accomplishments, among them, the first audio/photo club to be built anew from the ground up. With Ann's effectiveness, her ability at negotiation and the professionalism she displayed in operating the club, she will no doubt find green pastures wherever she turns. Thanks, Ann, for a job well done.

The Ramstein Air Base Open House 1977 is planned for July 31 from 9:00-17:00. Several precision flying teams are scheduled to perform throughout the day. The Belgian "Red Devils," the Royal Air Force "Red Arrows," the French "Patroville de France," the Italian "Frece Tricolori" and the "Blue Bees" will all be executing flight maneuvers. Also of interest will be a ground display of 58 aircraft representing nine different countries.

• Anmerkung : Das Flugschau-Unglück ereignete sich in 1988.

Technics is offering the SA-5770 stereo receiver, a 165 watts-per channel job, with control flexibility much like that found on "separates." These include a 26-step detented volume control, de-featable tone controls with turnover point selectors and phono input circuit impedance selectors. The FM section uses phase locked loop integrated circuitry. FM sensitivity is 1.8uV (10.3 dBf), selectivity 80 dB, stereo separation 45 dB at 1k Hz.

Also from Technics comes the RS-650US front-loading stereo cassette deck. Frequency response is 20-18k Hz with chromium-dioxide tape, the signal-to-noise ratio 62 dB with the Dolby circuitry on and the wow and flutter 0.063 per cent. Push-button function controls, separate left and right channel microphone and line input level controls and a 2-motor drive system are also featured. Both are available through exchanges and mail order catalogs.

TDK has a new cassette tape called AD (Acoustic Dynamic). It boasts and extra fine, densely packed coating of ferric 6xide that gives it a higher Maximum Output Level (MOL) than standard formulations. The higher MOL means improved frequency response, especially in the 10-20k Hz range. AD is a normal bias tape, unlike TDK's premium-priced SA (Super Avilyn) cassette, which requires Cr02 bias. We'll have more details next month in our new product report from the Consumer Electronic Show in Chicago.

New from Sankyo at the PMA (Photographic Marketing Association) Show were two movie cameras, each equipped with an innovative automatic focusing system. Both the ES 44 XL-Vaf silent and XL 400 S-Vaf sound have identical specifications. These include: a 4:1 (8.5-35mm f1.2) lens with macro focusing; automatic exposure control; 9, 18, and 36 fps speeds plus single frame; 220 degree shutter; electromagnetic shutter release; and a full information view finder. The XL 400 S-Vaf also has a flash sync terminal, backlight compensation and the usual sound controls. For a projector, Sankyo showed the Stereo Sound 800.

Ham radio operators stationed in Germany are often hard put to find equipment here. A visit to the Mannheim audio/photo club might be just the "ticket." The club carries a large assortment of ham gear and accessories. The club is open Tuesday-Friday from 11:00-18:00 hours, Saturday from 10:00-16:00 hours.

More than 100 new additions to the AAFES-Europe photographic stock assortment are beginning to crowd shelves in sight and sound centers and photo departments. Representing the most famous names in U.S. and Japanese manufacturers of photographic and optical equipment, the new items include: 35mm SLR cameras, snapshot and instamatic cameras, super 8mm movie cameras and projectors, lenses, electronic flash units,and camera accessories.

Already underway at the Athens Audio Club are two new programs. The layway program will allow the purchase of equipment with a down payment of ten per cent and three to six months to pay the balance. The Dubbing Room with two stations will be open to all club members for a small hourly fee. Club hours are, Monday-Friday from 11:00-17:00 and Saturday from 10:00-16:00.
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The 1978 NEX Mail Order Catlog debuts this month. It's the biggest one so far from NEX - 436 pages, an increase of 68 over last year's edition. As in years past it offers stereo, camera, appliance and gift items from all over the world, which may be sent to any APO/FPO or Stateside address not otherwise restricted by postal regulations. Now eligible to use the catalog are virtually all authorized exchange patrons stationed or tdy "overseas."

Biggest areas of expansion in the NEX Catalog are in the photo section, up from 36 pages last year to 50, and the audio department, up from 62 to 79. NEX has not only continued its exclusive "special order" service, but has expanded it to list prices and shipping weights for the most frequently requested items not featured in the catalog proper.

Other new features in the 1978 edition include a simplified replacement service for "chinaware" and dinner set pieces, an easier-to-use order form, a new mail-order embroidery service for personalized ball caps and patches, and a page of detachable post cards for having a catalog sent to a friend.
Worldwide distribution of the new catalog should be finished by the end of this month, NEX officials predict. You may obtain a single copy by writing to: NEX Mail Order, FPO Seattle, Washington 98762.

Ortofon, the Danish hi-fi maker that produces many of the systems used to cut record masters, introduced a couple of new moving coil cartridges at a press conference in Copenhagen.

The M20FL Super and M20E Super use the firm's Variable Magnetic Shunt design and a specially-shaped stylus. Also spotlighted was the firm's improved magnetic cartridge line, the Mark II. We'll say more in next month's CES Coverage of Ortofon.

International Funkausstellung 1977, the big radio and TV show held every two years in West Berlin, runs from August 26 to September 4th this year. The big audio fair takes place at the Berlin Messe and is, unlike some other trade shows, open to the ticket-buying public.

Chances are that you'll be able to see many items in Berlin that were first unveiled in June at the Consumer Electronics Show in Chicago. And, there's sure to be a lot of new European-made equipment. Berlin is usually very crowded during the show, so don't plan on spending the night unless you have a place to stay.

And, if you do attend be prepared for a lot of walking as the show is spread out over several interconnected exhibit halls.

All military personnel and their dependents are invited to enter Kodak's "Great Moment" photo contest, to redeem a $5.00-off coupon on Kodak cameras, and to get a $1.00 refund on Big "G" cereals. Participants in the photo contest are asked to send a picture of their favorite "great moment" to Eastman Kodak Company, Rochester, New York. Each photo must be accompanied by two end flaps from a Kodak film box or one boxtop from a Gereral Mills cereal. All entries must be postmarked no later than August 31, 1977. Grand prize is $3000 plus a Kodak Ektasound 240 movie camera and a Kodak Ektasound Moviedeck 285 projector. Almost three hundred prizes will be awarded in all.
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All active duty Air Force personnel are invited to enter the Annual USAFE Photo Contest, beginning later this month at their local base. Judges will select 72 photographs from each base for further competition at the USAFE finals, to be held Oct. 4 - 7 at the Bitburg Audio/Photo Club, coinciding with an All Vendor Photo Show.

Six awards will be given for monochrome prints, color prints and color transparencies in each of four categories: General Photography, People, Scenic, and Experimental. Winners of the USAFE contest will go on to the USAF competition at Hill AFB, Utah. Check with your local Arts & Crafts Director for details.

Covering every aspect of home electronic entertainment is the Home Entertainment Show taking place in Olympia, London, from September 12th through 18th. Special attractions will appeal to everyone from the hi-fi specialist to the pop music fan. The BBC, London Broadcasting and Capitol Radio will have demonstration studios and perhaps be broadcasting programs from the show. Exhibitors will have their own demonstration booths so that visitors can make direct comparisons of products on display. Theater shows and live performances by musical groups will also be included in the daily events.

The Technics RS-1506US open-reel deck, first seen in Europe last fall, will be available this month from the new AAFES Mail Order Catalog (Pacific section), the new NEX Mail Order Catalog and also from NEX stores. The 1506US is a three-motor four-track machine that uses a quartz controlled phase-locked-loop direct drive capstan motor and "Isolated Loop" drive. Wow and flutter is 0.018 per cent at the top speed of 15 ips. The machine also has 7 1/2 and 3 3/4 ips speeds. Frequency response at 15 ips is 30-30k Hz within 3 dB, the S/N ratio 57 dB. Controls are pushbutton-types with logic circuitry.
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"Make Someone Happy ... Through Your CFC" is the theme for this year's European "Combined Federal Campaign", which runs Sept. 20 through Oct 31. Thirty American voluntary, non-profit agencies are recipients of contributions collected during the annual driven. These include such organizations as the USO, Red Cross and the Arthritis Foundation.

Berlin's Funkausstellung, which we mentioned a few weeks back, has just ended. Several very interesting new items - most from European firms - made their debuts at the big hi-fi show, held every two years in the divided city. We don't have the space to go into detail heref but we'll give you a full run-down next month.

Rotel's new RB-5000 power-amplifier and RC-5000 pre-amplifier are now (or will soon be) available from NEX. The RB-5000, $1,200, produces 500 watts rms per channel into 8 ohms with 0.009 per cent harmonic distortion, 20-20k Hz, both channels driven. S/N ratio is 120 dB, frequency response DC-lOOk Hz. Power output is indicated by two meters and a pair of 8-LED displays.

The RC-5000, at $700, has 0.002 per cent IM distortion, a S/N ratio of 85 dB via the phono inputs and includes a 10-band graphic equalizer among its many controls. There are also provisions for 3 tape recorders, microphone inputs, built-in head amp for moving coil cartridges and lots more.

ADC ZLM and ZLM Select phono pickup cartridges are now available in audio clubs. Both have the new ADC Aliptic stylus which the firm claims offers the advantages of both the elliptical and Shibata stylus, without the disadvantages of either. For the ZLM the nude diamond is mounted on a taper cantilever to reduce tip mass. Both cartridges will track from 1/2 to 1 1/4 grams. Frequency response for the ZLM is 10-20k Hz +1 dB, for the ZLM Select, 10-20k Hz + 1/2 dB.

Dual's 604 direct drive turntable is now available in the audio clubs. The machine is Dual's first low-price direct drive model.

Aphono pickup cartridge for CD4
Audio-Technica will offers the AT-12 SP phono pickup cartridge at a 40 per cent discount through military outlets during October. The cartridge can be used for stereo and 4-channel discs. Frequency response is 15-45k Hz, the stylus is a Shibata type bonded to a titanium cantilever.

JVC's JL-F50 direct drive turntable ($143.00) and 3060 portable TV/radio/cassette recorder($189.00) are now available in the PX. The F50 has a 0.03 per cent wow and flutter rating and 70 dB S/N ratio. There's a strobe built-in and controls are the push-button type. The 3060 can be used just about anywhere and will do a bit of everything. There's a 3-in. TV screen, AM/FM radio, and stereo cassette recorder all in one 11.3 lb. package.

If you're in the market for a new color set, Panasonic is now offering the TC-261NP, a 20-in. model that will receive both American and European (PAL) telecasts in color. As far as we know, it is the only such set available for home use. The set has push-button tuning and slide-type controls, plus a Quintrix II picture tube.

Elcaset
On the tape recorder scene, there's the Technics RS-7500US Elcaset deck, available through PXs and the mail order catalogs. Frequency response is 20-20k Hz +3 dB, wow and flutter 0.06 per cent and the S/N ratio 63 dB. Other features include three heads, digital tape counter with memeory rewind, 3-step tape selectors, separate left and right channel microphone and line level controls, plus output level controls. A frequency-generator servo motor gets things moving.
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AAFES Mail Order has a 64-page Christmas Catalog on the way to exchanges. Designed as a supplement to the jumbo 800-page AAFES Mail Order Catalog, the pocketsize Christmas catalog features watches, jewelry, toys and sporting goods as well as numerous gift items.

A $510 rack-mounted component system by Sansui is a highlight of the catalog's audio section which also includes items from Akai, Sony, Teac, Marantz, Aiwa, Sanyo, Toshiba and Panasonic.

Among the novelties is RCA's Studio II, a TV game priced at $106. On the photographic side, Kodak offers two pocket instamatic camera outfits at special Christmas prices.

Speaking of new product introductions (see the Berlin hi-fi show report in this issue), Sharp has announced a new computer-controlled cassette deck, the RT-3388. Production is scheduled to begin this month on the unit, which has a suggested retail Stateside of $300. The machine contains a microprocessor that will find the start of any song in forward and reverse and play it automatically. It can be programmed to turn itself on or off, displays the hour and displays the recording time.

Fujica has a new camera, the AZ-1 Zoom, available on the military market. It is a 35mm SLR available with a 3.5/4.5 43-75mm zoom lens as standard equipment. The cloth focal plane shutter has speeds from 1/2 to 1/1,000 of a sec. The auto exposure control system is the aperture-preferred type that takes through-the-lens readings. The viewfinder contains LEDs and a shutter speed scale. Also available are a matching electronic flash, the Fujica Auto Strobo AZ and a motor drive unit.

Now available from the PX's regular stock is the Panasonic TC-261NP color television which, as we've mentioned here before, is the only set we know of that can receive both German PAL colorcasts and American color broadcasts. The price is $525 for the set which has a 20-in. screen, push-button tuning and slide-type controls. It uses a black matrix, in-line picture tube.

Around November first, AAFES-Europe will introduce a new hi-fi program called the "Connoisseur Collection" into major sound centers in Europe. The object of the program is to make available to PX customers top-of-the-line products from BGW, BSR-Accutrac, Cerwin-Vega, Crown, Harman/Kardon, JBL, Marantz, Ortofon, Quad, Russound, SAE and Yamaha. Participating sound centers are Frankfurt, Heidelberg, Mannheim, Kaiserslautern, Hainerberg (Anmerkung : das ist hier in Wiesbaden), Berlin, Bamberg, Augsburg, Baumholder, Furth, and Stuttgart.
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Epicure's newest loudspeaker, the Fifteen, is now available through audio clubs. It's a two-way design with 8-in. woofer, 1-in. ferrofluid tweeter and 12-in. passive radiator. Frequency response is 34-20k Hz +3 dB, impedance 8 ohms and the recommended power range is 15-125 watts rms. It is finished in walnut veneer.

New additions to the Revox line of audio components, the "B" series, consisting of the BX-230, BX 350 and BX 4100 loudspeakers; B-77 open reel tape deck, B-740 amplifier; B-750 integrated amplifier; B-760 tuner; and B-790 turntable are being introduced in AAFES exchanges and Audio Clubs this month.

The Stax SR-44 headphone system is now available on the military market. It consists of the SR-40 electret-type "Earspeaker" and the SRD-4 adaptor unit. Frequency response is 25-25k Hz, maximum output level 110 dB. The headphones have a padded headband and ear cushions. The adaptor unit has a switch to allow selection of loudspeaker or headphone listing.

JVC has added three new hi-end items - all available from audio clubs - to its lineup. The T-3030, $325, is a frequency-synthesized FM-stereo digital tuner. Sensitivity is 1.0 uV for 30 dB quieting mono, 19uV for 50 dB quieting stereo, capture ratio 1.0 dB, selectivity 80 dB, S/N ratio 72 dB stereo, separation 45 dB at 100 and 10k Hz, 50 dB at Ik Hz. Features include phase-locked-loop circuitry, digital tuning and display, 7 tuning pushbuttons, band scanning controls, 2-step muting and LEDs for indicating signal strength.

The matching P-3030 preamplifier, $286, has a 20-20k Hz +0.3 dB frequency response via the phono inputs and a 76 dB S/N ratio. Use the built-in moving coil cartridge head amp and the S/N becomes 66 dB. Besides volume, balance, bass and treble controls there are 4-step cartridge load and capacitance selectors, a mute switch and defeatable subsonic filter.

Finally we have the $455 JVC M-30 30 stereo power-amplifier. Power output is 100 watts rms per channel into 8 ohms with 0.05 per cent harmonic distortion, 20-20k Hz, both channels driven. IM distortion is 0.05 per cent, frequency response -1 dB from DC-lOOk Hz. There are left and right channel level controls, plus two pairs of inputs - with and without subsonic filter.

A trip home to the states plus $1,000 is the prize for some lucky overseas military family in the Coca-Cola Company Stateside Sweepstakes.

Participation is easy -- you'll find an entry blank in this issue of OFF DUTY. Even if you don't win that trip, you can still take advantage of the money-off coupons offered by Coca-Cola Foods Divisons that appear with the entry form.

Preiserhöhung bei japanischen Produkten
AAFES has announced a 10 per cent increase in price for all 1977/78 catalog items valued at $20 or more that appear in the Far East section and originate in Japan. A 5 per cent increase in price for items originating in Germany is also in effect. In the NEX Catalog 1978, items valued at $20 or more originating in Spain have been reduced in price by 15 per cent while items valued at $20 or more from Japan and Germany have been increased in price by 5 per cent. Mail order customers are advised to make the necessary deductions or additions before sending off their orders. Price adjustments were necessary due to currency exchange rate changes.
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1. Aschaffenburg Audio/Photo Club - Bldg. 26, Jaeger Kaserne, 875 Aschaffenburg.  Open Tues.-Wed.-Fri. 1200-1900; Thurs. 1300-2000. Sat. 1000-1600.
2. Augsburg Audio/Photo Club - Bldg. 209, Flak Kaserne, Neusasser Str., 89 Augsburg.  Open Tues. thru Fri. 1200-1800; Sat. 1000-1600;
3. Bad Kreuznach Audio/Photo Club - Rose Barracks, BIdg. 5334, 6550 Bad Kreuznach.   Open Tues. thru Fri. 1200-1800; Sat. 1000-1600.
4. Bamberg Audio/Photo Club - Warner Barracks, BIdg. 7047,8600 Bamberg.  Open Tues. thru Fri. 1400-1900; Sat. 1100-1700;
5. Baumholder Audio/Photo Club - Smith Barracks, BIdg. 8108, 6587 Baumholder.   Open Tues., Wed., Thurs. & Fri. 1100-1800; Saturday 1000-1530.
6. Bitburg Audio/Photo Club - Bldg. 328, Bitburg Air Base, 552 Bitburg/Eifel.   Open Mon. thru Sat. 1100-1800; Paydays 1200-2000.
7. EUCOM Audio/Photo Club - Building 2343, Hq. U.S. European Command, Patch-Barracks, 7 Stuttgart-Valhingen,  7131. Open Tues., Thurs., Fri. 1000-1900; Wed. 1000-2000; Sat. 1000-1700; Sun. 1100-1600;
8. Frankfurt Audio/Photo Club - Main Store: 152 Hansa Allee, BIdg. 132, basement Frankfurt Playhouse, across street from Taunus House.  Open Mon., Tues., Wed. & Fri. 1200-1900; Thurs. 1200-1700; Sat. 1200-1800.
9. Giessen Audio/Photo Club - Giessen Depot, BIdg. 8, behind the Alpine Club. Open Tues. thru F:ri. 1500-2000. Sat. 1200-1800. .
10. Hahn Audio/Photo Club - Hahn Air Base, BIdg. 318, 6541 Hahn Flug-platz, Simmern/Hunsrueck. Open Mon. thru. Fri. 1100r 1800; Sat. 1000-1500.
11. Heidelberg Audio/Photo Club - BIdg. 107, 2d floor, Patton Bks., 69 Heidelberg.  Open Tues. thru Fri. 1200-1800; Sat. 1000-1800; Paydays 1200-1800. Closed Sun., Mon. & U.S. holidays.
12. Heilbronn Audio/Photo Hobby Shop - Wharton Barracks, tel. Mil. 620;  Open Tues. thru Fri. 1100-1900; Sat. 1000-1700; Monday after payday 1100-1900.
13. Herzo Base Audio/Photo Club - BIdg. 1605, Herzo Base, 8522 Herzogenaurach. Open Mon., Tues., Thurs. & Fri. 1300-1900; Sat. 1200-1600; End of month payday 1300-2000.
14. Illesheim Audio/Photo Club - BIdg. 6546, Storck Barracks, 8531 Illesheim (near Ansbach).  Open Tues. thru Fri. 1200-1900; Sat. 1100-1700; end of month payday 1100-1900.
15. Kitzingen Audio/Photo Club - Main Store: BIdg. 169, Harvey Barracks, 871 Kitzingen, Open Tues. thru Fri. 1200-1900; Sat. 1200-1700; end of the month payday 1200-2000. 
16. Mannheim Audio/Photo Club - Colemann Barracks, BIdg. 38M, APO 09028.  Open Tues. thru Fri. 1100-1800; Sat. 1000-1600.
17. Neu Ulm Audio/Photo Hobby Shop Nelson Barracks, BIdg. 309. Open Tues. thru Fri. 1100-1900; Sat. 1000-1700. Monday after paydays 1100-1900.
18. Ramstein Audio/Photo Club BIdg. 2113 (Club Rama), Ramstein AB.  Open Mon., Tues., Fri. 1100-1900; Wed. 1100-2000; Sat. 1100-1700; end of month paydays 1100-2000.
19. Rhein-Main Audio/Photo Club Rhein-Main Air Base, BIdg. 349.  Club and Tape Center open Mon. thru Sat. 1000-1800. Closed Sun. & American holidays.
20. Schwaebisch-Hall Audio/Photo Hobby Shop BIdg. 306, Dolan Barracks,  Open Tues. thru Fri. 1100-1400 & 1600-1900. Sat. 1000-1700; Mon. after payday 1100-1900.
21. Schweinfurt Audio/Photo Club Conn Barracks, BIdg. 89, Schweinfurt. Open Mon., Wed., Thurs. & Fri. 1600-2000; Sat. 1100-1600; payday 1200-2000.
22. Tempelhof Audio/Photo Club Tempelhof Central Airport, 1 Berlin 61. Open Tues. thru Fri. 1200-1800; Sat. 1100-1700.
23. Vilseck Audio/Photo Club BIdg. 224, Rose Barracks, 8451 Sorghof-Sued-lager, Combined Arms Trng. Ctr. Open Tuesday thru Friday 1000-1800; Sat. 1000-1600.
24. Wiesbaden Audio/Photo Club Located at Mainz-Kastel Storage Station, BIdg. 2A, opposite AAFES Shopper's Mart, 6503 Mainz-Kastel. Open Tues. thru Fri. 1200-2000; Sat. 1000-1800. On Sun.,
25. Wildflecken Audio/Photo Club BIdg. 252, Wildflecken Training Area, Open Mon., Wed., Thurs., Fri. 1100-1300 & 1500-1800; Sat. 1100-1600.

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