Yamaha TC-800 (1975 - 1978)
Like all of Yamaha's early audio units, this was a statement. It received many honors, museum exposure and praise.
The first TC-800 sported a High Filter and a Microphone switch ; the TC-800GL replaced these with a Dolby IC and a Mic/Line mixing function, received a Limiter switch and could operate with a DC 12V power source or with nine 3V batteries as well. A third version, TC800D, was an updated 800, with an added DIN connector, auto CrO2 tape compatibility and Dolby IC ; it eventually replaced both original versions.

In the same vein (but less "mythical"), one should recall the Leak 2002 tape deck (sporting a Nak' mechanism), the Lecson units or the Nak' 600 & 610.

More images of the 800GL -including what seems to be a white version of the 800- at K.Nisi's website ; a review of the 800GL can be found here.