The Sony Walkman TPS L2. The worlds first true portable cassette player for the consumer market. Released in 1979 (same age as me, sheesh). It has since, in my opinion become one of the most iconic Sony products. Made famous in recent years due to its appearance in Marvel's movie The Guardians of The Galaxy. Prices has since skyrocketed. It's been called the "Ipod" of the 80's and now has become one of the most collectable portable cassette players. Even dented or badly scratched examples can fetch over $300. Some mint condition examples have sold for more than $1500. Even more valuable when boxed with all accessories.
The TPS-L2 had, in it's first years a few different versions. The early ones simply has "Stereo" on the front and were branded differently. In the UK and Sweden for example they were called "Stowaway" and "Freestyle". In the US it was called "Soundabout". As sales and it's popularity grew, the name "Walkman" became the norm and Sony quickly and as history has shown correctly named it "Walkman". All subsequent portable cassette players wore the name "Walkman". Even to this day, Sony uses "Walkman" on their high resolution audio players.
A very basic cassette player mechanically and visually but with a new set of belts and a good clean, the sound is surprisingly good. If you are lucky enough to own one with the original box and accessories, keep it for as long as you can. These are gems and belong in any serious collectors display cabinet. Prices are only rising.
