Transformers: Japanese Boxed Soundwave
Takara’s release of Soundwave reinstated the extra Cassette Man accessories that Hasbro had excluded from their release: a set of headphones and a microphone, both non-functioning. To further emulate Cassette Man, Takara’s Soundwave came with Rumble, rather than Buzzsaw, and a clear plastic case that he could fit into in tape mode. Originally in the Cassette Man release, the figure came with either Rumble, Frenzy or Laserbeak, as different releases and copies varied. Soundwave’s rocket launcher featured a spring-loaded firing mechanism that Hasbro had removed, as they did with all such features at the time. Takara also made a running change to the mold, re-sculpting the recessed buttons on Soundwave’s pelvis into one solid, protruding piece, and moving the cassette door’s hinge from inside the figure’s chest to a lower, external position on either side of this new button assembly. This modification became the standard for all subsequent re-uses of the Soundwave mold.
Released in 1984 this is the Japanese release of the Generation 1 Soundwave figure. The most notable difference between the U.S. version and the Japanese one is that the Japanese release came with a set of headphones to complete the “Walkman” look. The headphones were simply decorative, and didn’t actually work, but do look great with the figure.
The figure itself is in good shape, the cassette door is in working condition however is not very “springy” when it opens. Rumble/Frenzy is the plastic toe’ed version, he is a bit rough, but complete. Almost all of the accessories are included, however one missile is missing as well as the mouth piece for the headphones.
The figure will definitely display well either boxed or loose, and is a definite “must have” for any cassette/Soundwave collector. This figure is not perfect, but it’s not priced like it is either. Don’t miss your chance to own this unique figure at a great price.
Price: SOLD
