Sony TA-2000F

Very successful preamplifier and updated FET version of the original and equally successful TA-2000.

Differences lie in a better shielding of the vertical printed circuits and some changes of controls topology : the tape-head input, for instance, was replaced by "modern" selectors and dubbing functions, the front line output jack was deemed redundant and the center / mono output was deprived from its own level potentiometer.
The phono section was however greatly expanded.

According to owners of both versions, the FETs in the circuits didn't seem to make that much of a difference with the original TA-2000, but the "F" is much more convenient to use due to the modernization of the controls and functions.
Unlike the original 2000 but like many other contemporary Sony components, the back panel is articulated and opens down to allow very easy access to all the sections and plug-in PCBs.

Btw, the knurled knobs were export-only : japanese units kept the original smooth ones of the TA-2000 and added a little "F" badge on the top right corner of the front.

Sony kept the 2000F available in Japan much longer than elsewhere and even after the introduction (and shelving...) of the TAE-8450. The reason is simple : the 2000F sold like hotcakes - worldwide !

By way of the 1971 revision, the TA-2000 stereo preamplifier remained a bestseller between 1968 and 1976.
It was part of the units taken as reference in build quality when Sony started to work on the ESPRIT series because, in 1978, it still was impressive. And it still is today.