Reel to reel is so cool for those of us who were around when it represented the best. Further, it conjures up notions of playing tapes in a studio situation, tapes of the quality that we never had access to. What could be more inspiring than huge reels running at high speed when we all know that was what the source always was when cutting records? If turntables are really cool then reel to reel is double so. Nostalgia, images of "pro-use-only" exclusivity, unobtanium all combine to an intoxicating blend for the audiophile.
Then reality hits: after hearing reel to reel at many shows and homes in the current "craze", I have serious doubts about the "right next to the master tape" claims of available tapes, or the duplication process, if they really are not to far removed from masters. I see a lot of nodding heads, but I don't hear the actual sound being even as good as a top notch turntable with great records.
Then reality hits: after hearing reel to reel at many shows and homes in the current "craze", I have serious doubts about the "right next to the master tape" claims of available tapes, or the duplication process, if they really are not to far removed from masters. I see a lot of nodding heads, but I don't hear the actual sound being even as good as a top notch turntable with great records.