Sirs, thank you for the feedback! I already ordered the belt kit from a USA source. The AMP and pre amp of the unit seems to be alright. The mechanisms are working after some lubrication. A selector is missing, the rubber roller is marginal, and several other external items might have to be changed. The heads are clean and working The M8 is a professional model and is worth the effort and fun. I am hoping to find any Akai open reel tape deck as a parts source. The website mentioned by av_phile1 looks interesting.