This week a cassette that promises to be silent:
Maxell XL II-S 90
Words like violence break the silence
If this was a contemporary car, the brochure would mention SSPACM, EDR, ELN, and even some SEFEMP (see J-card below). And let’s not forget the UFFL, always available on a Maxell cassette.
Still, the words are there for a reason: this cassette could be considered Maxells finest hour. Not only a great cassette to record with, but also a cassette that is nice to handle. The outside is not made of the standard hard plastic, but has a slightly rubbery feel, so it feels a bit soft. And indeed, you can add scratches with your nails.
If the marketing terms are not your thing, they are easily eradicated by adding the supplied labels.
Words are meaningless and forgettable
Another eye catcher here are the black and white reels. To really appreciate these, we need to take a look inside.
The foil is very shiny, and thin. No thick ridges, it’s very minimalistic. When removed, the reels are exposed.
Looking at the shiny foil I wondered why the window on these cassettes always seems a bit misty, like this.
The reason for this turns out to be the window itself: it is made of a very thick, rigid but unclear plastic. This is easily demonstrated by photographing straight through.
The indicator bullets for remaining tape length are on the inside. There is enough space for them to not touch the tape.
This cassette was made in England, as was the Type IV (Metal) version.
Words are trivial, pleasures remain
Tape Monitor 
I think these were my favourite of all Maxell’s tapes, I love the matte colour & slightly soft feel although I never realised some of them were made in England… just checked my collection and most are “Made in Japan” – I’ve only found 1 so far “Made in England”.
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