2. analog
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Reel to Reel decks

Is anyone out there using reel to reels anymore? I remember at one time(30 years ago), they were probably some of the best analog reproduction equipment out there. Of course, it doesn't matter much if you can't buy good prerecorded tapes. I've googled prerecorded tapes, but haven't found much out there. Anyone have a good source? Also, can anyone recommend a good deck?
handymann
orpheus10
8,668 posts
 
Make sure you can get parts and service before you buy.
andy_p
27 posts
 
Hi Tony,

I just saw your modified studer tube output electronics on the what's best f-rum, it looks like you did a great job and hope to someday be able to get to that diy level with one of my own decks.
tonykyma
11 posts
 
Hi Andy
I also did modification on a Revox PR99, just changed all the coupling cap to Solen fast cap about 10 caps out-put change to monitor out and a CCIR/NAB switch that can play Tape Project's tape,three years ago, with very good result, of cause there are no room for those big caps, I had took off all the record PCB to get room, I will show pictures later
tony ma
andy_p
27 posts
 
Tony, just saw your schematic and will follow that thread to read comments from other studer owner's, I watch with interest, external playback electronics is expensive (bottlehead is the most accessible with eros kit) so to see diy is very exciting and inspiring. I know many upgrade existing circuits and for me that is my diy level although I have not tried yet. Thank you Tony for sharing with us on this thread and elsewhere, it is very much appreciated (all input is appreciated, I thank all of you for sharing your experiences with your machines)

Andy
edainwestoc
19 posts
 
I'm not sure if I missed anyone saying it but there is a beauty and coolness to RTR decks. Its the same sort of thing that makes someone buy one piece of gear over another. You cannot rule out how the gear looks.

Its been a lot of years since I owned a RTR deck and I miss it. I just like threading the tape and the excellent sound quality to a decent RTR deck. I believe the Tape Project started out charging $200 per release when the site was first put up. I guess they found more than a few customers.

I agree with MikeL that the only way to get the best from any media is the original. To that end a high speed dup of a 2 track stereo master should be the best us mortals could do. If properly done it should be superior to any LP (considering the multiple steps a LP goes through before vinyl is pressed).

Of course that presumes that the same care is taken at each step of production for both the RTR dup and the LP.

Ed
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