Magfan - I too owned a Teac 4010 in the late 70's until someone stole it out of my apartment along with Pioneer speakers and quadrophonic receiver. I know tapes degrade over time and can really gum up heads; but I'm going to get the player repaired and just play with it. Again, can't imagine just throwing it out with the trash. And I've determined I can't repair it. Thanks for the offer on the compressor/expander; I have no experience with one. When you have time, shoot me an email explaining what it does. I may take you up on your offer down the road. Right now, my solid state Essence amp is out for repair, my tubed Melos amp needs to go to the shop and my VPI Classic has a motor issue. So, my system is down. Once I get my equipment back on my shelves, I'll turn my attention to the repair of the Teac.
Reel to reel repair - is it worth it?
Inherited a Teac X-3 reel-to-reel from my father, along with some tapes he had recorded. In anticipation of getting it, I even bought some more pre-recorded tapes off Ebay. After I got the Teac home, I found it didn't work (reel won't engage when "play" is pushed). Only repairman in town gave $150 estimate. Is this reel-to-reel worth $150 to repair? Hate to just throw it in the trash as it has sentimental value. Even though I have no experience with these kinds of repairs, is this something I should try to repair? I can take apart anything. Fixing it and putting it back together again is another story. Any thoughts?