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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 2 responses by newbee

newbee
4,807 posts
 
Perhaps you could use a Y on the tape out taking the signal to the inputs on both tape recorders and take the signal from the tape recorders to different inputs on the pre-amp for each tape recorder (one of the vacant inputs and the one designated for the input on the tape loop to use for monitoring that one tape recorder. The other would be for recording and playback but not monitoring during recording. That would work although you might have a problem if some how you tried to record a signal from the tape out that was emanating from the same tape recorder you were using to record, as if anyone could be that dumb! :-)

FWIW
newbee
4,807 posts
 
Personally I would use the five finger device, they are free. Just set up your tape decks (or pre-amp) so that the connections are accessible. That way you get full tape/monitor/playback capability with no signal degradation and no equipment risk.

Years ago I had two amps set up so I could switch them. My pre-amp had two live outputs always connected. The 'only' risk was if both amps got turned on at the same time. Well I ain't that dumb or careless. You bet! You guessed it - one day it happened. My big Threshold amp survived........I became a 'simple is best' believer and have never had a problem since.

FWIW
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