The Onkyo Integra TA-2056 is a three-head cassette deck with Dolby B and Dolby C noise-reduction systems, a digital tape counter, a user-adjust-able bias-trim control, and a variety of programming options. It seems to be designed for the large group of music listeners who seek adequate performance and abundant features at a moderate price.

The TA-2056 uses one d.c. servomotor for its single-capstan drive, a second motor to turn the reel hubs, and a third to operate the head and pinch-roller mechanism. The head assembly moves in a two-step sequence. Its intermediate position permits close but not full contact between the heads and the tape, which allows high-speed scanning to detect blank spaces between selections (as needed by the preview and repeat features) without subjecting the heads to excessive wear.

The TA-2056 has a relatively conventional cassette well, but its backlighting and large front window make it easier than most other designs do to read the label and see how much tape is left. Sensors within the well detect the cassette type (ferric, chrome, or metal) and automatically switch the deck to the correct bias and equalization settings. The cassette-well door is removable, allowing access to the heads and pinch-roller for routine cleaning and demagnetizing.