Great thread. MillerCarbon, great explanation of how this works. It is, as you say, contrary to the notion that you generally want tape speed to roll fast--i.e. think VCRs or reel-to-reel--faster taping speed the better. Here, we're dealing with something different. This makes great sense the way you explained it.
Half speed masters. Are they worth the extra scratch?
I just purchased a Dire Straits Brothers in Arms half speed master. I'm using a Pioneer PL530 TT. Can this album be played successfully on my TT? I put it on 45 rpm but there is no way to tell if it is spinning at the right speed. The speed control is working but not keeping a steady reading like when I play a normal 33 record. It sounds good but I'm wondering if they should be played on a different table. Also is it worth it to pay extra money for these? I payed 50$ for this album. Thanks for any information.