An apiary (sometimes an apiary) in the context of audio engineering is a thin elastic strap that transmits rotational motion from the motor to the player mechanism, cassette deck, or CD drive. The stability of the speed, the correct activation of the mechanisms and the overall reliability of the device depend on the quality and condition of the apiary. In vinyl players, the apiary holds the speed of the disc, in cassette decks it is responsible for pulling the film, and in CD drives it often ensures the movement of the tray.
You can understand that the apiary needs to be changed based on several typical symptoms. If the sound starts to "float", an unstable tone is heard or the speed periodically sags, this is a sign of stretching the strap. In cassette decks, normal stretching of the film may disappear: the cassette rotates only partially, stops for no reason, or the rewind works very slowly. When the apiary is completely worn out, the mechanism may not start at all, and the engine will chew without visible movement of the parts. Often, old apiaries become sticky or crumble - this also means that the resource is exhausted.
Apiaries are made of various types of rubber, but EPDM or silicone materials are usually used for audio equipment. EPDM rubber is more similar to the original apiaries of older devices and holds its shape well, while silicone options sometimes have better elasticity and durability. It is important to find the right diameter and thickness: even a slight deviation can affect the speed or create additional noise. If you don't know the exact size, measure the old apiary in a relaxed state or calculate the circumference.
To find a suitable apiary on the Internet in English, look for the phrases "turntable belt", "cassette deck belt", "drive belt", "flat belt", "square belt" or "rubber belt for [model]". If you select a strap by size, add "XX mm diameter belt" or "YY mm flat belt width" to the request. For specific models, the query "[brand model] belt replacement" works well. It is important to consider that different manufacturers used different belt profiles: flat for players, square or round for cassette deck mechanisms, thin round - for CD trays.
Personally, I have seen several Ukrainian online stores with a large list of apiaries. Currently, I will select and order for one of my players. I am trying to resuscitate the CASIO AS-40, which I purchased at an auction for a couple of hryvnias.
As a result, replacing the apiary is a simple (depending on the model and design) procedure, but it significantly affects the operation of audio equipment. Timely replacement guarantees stable speed, clean sound and long operation of the mechanism, especially if you choose high-quality rubber and the right size. If the device starts to behave out of the box and the mechanics make strange noises or "skip", often just a new apiary is enough to bring the technique back to life.
