In the early days of my audio journey I spent time with a Pioneer 10.5” RtR ans a Sony of similar quality. We recorded albums and live radio broadcasts of concerts by the likes of The Dead, The Wailers, Little Feat, Robert Palmer…that were pretty high quality. Now, I can get on Tidal and create playlists, find those same broadcasts, and do it on the cheap. Open reel is fantastic, but obsolete.
Open Reel Curious
I am relatively new to audiophile level listening, with a respectable SS system, streaming mainly, with some discs and vinyl in the mix as well. But I am intrigued with open reel. Yet I am also a bit intimidated. There is clearly a learning curve regarding equipment, calibration, tape types, etc, not to mention a pretty major expense.
It seems like there are only a very few places to listen and learn - Brooklyn, LA, Vancouver, BC…? Anyone know of places in Chicago or Detroit where one can go to hear high-end open reel demos and talk to knowledgeable people in person? Anyone have any advice, like “Run! Run far away!” lol.