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2 tape decks- 1 tape monitor loop

Hello, I have 2 tape decks I want to hook up to my pre that only has connections for 1. There is 1 set of tape out and 1 set of tape in along with several other inputs of which 2 aux's are not being used. The (amp) outputs are all used up. There is a tape selector on my pre that is labeled off, tape and monitor. I plan to record and play back with both decks, but never use them (or have them on) at the same time. I don't plan to record from one deck to the other but do plan to record from CD, phono or tuner onto one tape deck or the other.
My question is, should I use a 2 in 1 Y connector to the set of tape in's and tape out's, or is there a better way to hook these up?
markpao

Showing 1 response by almarg

almarg's avatar
almarg
9,670 posts
 
Hi Mark,

You've seen my comments in the other thread you referred to. They are equally applicable to your situation. Using y-adapters to connect two line-level outputs together might work ok in some situations if you don't have both devices powered up at the same time, but it is not a good idea IMO.

The only risk in Newbee's suggestion is the one he mentioned. If you inadvertently set the preamp such that the output of the deck that is being used for recording is selected by the input select switch, a large oscillation would result that could conceivably damage your system, the speakers in particular.

Personally, I would go with a switchbox.

Regards,
-- Al
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