Return

Tape Recorder Resources

Tape Recorder FAQ

Welcome to our list of frequently asked questions about tape decks and recorders.

Questions:

1. I want to buy a tape deck. Which brand and model is best?
   Opinions vary widely on which decks are best. The answer depends on your situation. Here are our thoughts on the subject.
2. What's the difference between a 'tape deck' and a 'tape recorder'?
   This is our definition- others' may vary. A 'deck' requires an external amplifier to drive speakers while a 'tape recorder' has a
   built-in amplifier capable of driving speakers and often has internal speakers as well.
3. What's the difference among 4-Channel/2-Channel, 4-Track/2-Track decks?
   Most modern stereo tape units are 4-track devices that are designed to use tape that is 1/4 in. wide. They record the left and right
   channels on 2 of the 4 tracks in one direction and the left and right channels on the other two tracks when recording in the opposite direction.
   4-channel decks can operate in the same mode but they also can record and play 4 channels ( Front, right; Front, left; Rear, right; Rear, left)
   simultaneously in one direction only. Some decks divide the tape into just 2 (or one!) tracks. Because the surface area of tape used is an important
   factor in sound quality, these units produce higher quality at the expense of tape usage. For this reason, they usually handle 10-1/2 inch reels.
   This illustration from TEAC manuals explains the various methods.
4. How can I tell the difference between 2 track and 4 track heads?
   This picture shows the two configurations for comparison (close the new window when done).
   Although heads may vary, the proportions should be obvious.
5. How do I thread the tape?
   Depending on Maker and model, there are variations in threading the tape, but the following example should give you an idea of the process:
   Akai GX255
   Note that the full reel always goes on the left, the tape falls off the outside edge of the supply reel, passes across the heads, between a rubber pinch roller and a metal capstan shaft (some decks have 2 capstans), then onto the outside edge of the takeup reel. Most decks use a spring-loaded arm (or two) to maintain tension on the tape, thus holding it against the heads.
   You may find specifics for your deck in one of the manuals available for online viewing .
6. I have loaded the tape and switched to Play mode. It seems to be working but I have no output.
   If your deck is equipped with a Tape/Source switch, make sure it's in the Tape position
   Make sure the correct side of the tape is against the heads. For prerecorded tapes and most consumer tapes, the dull side should be against the heads
7. It's playing but the tape sounds weird. Why?
   There are several possibilities:
   • The tape is not properly threaded. In Play mode, the correct side of the tape must be in contact with the Playback Head!
   • The tape was wound onto the reel 'backwards'. This requires effort but we have seen it done!
   • The tape was wound onto the reel 'inside out'. The shiny side of the tape should usually face away from the center of the reel (and from the heads). NOTE: Thanks to Roger Winter for pointing out that there are a variety of tape types, some of which do not follow this convention. 'Back-coated' tapes have a lubricant on the side facing the heads, giving it a shiny appearance.
   • The tape may have gathered moisture and oxidation over time.
     References regarding baking 'sticky' or 'shrieking' tapes:
     http://www.tangible-technology.com/tape/baking1.html
     http://www.reeltoreel.de/worldwide/Tips.htm
     http://www.audio-restoration.com/baking.htm
     This link has some interesting background about Magenetic recording
     Here is a technical paper on Tape Handling from NASA.
     
   • The tape was recorded in 4-channel mode and you are playing it in two-channel or vice versa.
   • The tape was recorded in 4-Track mode and you are playing it in 2-Track mode.
     A tape that was recorded in 2-track mode can be played in 4-track mode but one channel will be a lower volume
8. What is Sound on Sound recording and how does it work?
   This Special Recording Techniques section from TEAC covers the SOS topic nicely.
9. I have a prerecorded tape that says it has reversing signals. My deck has autoreverse but it won't reverse at the ends of this tape. What's wrong?
   Ampex placed a 20 Hz tone for several seconds to signal the end of their manufactured tapes. Ampex decks and a few others recognize it but most decks don't.
   Most use a short section of metallic tape to signal the end of the tape.
10. How do I use the metal sensing foil to make the tape reverse?
    Several methods are used for autoreverse foil application, depending on the maker and deck. This AKAI unit and this Teac deck are typical of some. Pioneer 707 and 909 units and some Sony decks use the foil on the opposite side (toward the heads).
11. Where can I buy NAB hub adapters, push-on reel retainers, power cords?
    Several sources are listed in our Maintenance Section.
12. Where can I buy blank tape, cleaning supplies, etc.?
    Several sources are listed in our Maintenance Section.
13. Where can I buy a remote control for my deck?
    This source specializes in remote controls.
14. My Akai deck requires a bushing for 7-1/2 IPS operation. Where can I get one?
    We have one source: Rolf@Txucom.net, a hobbyist who had several made by a local machinist. His website is here: http://www.angelfire.com/electronic2/vintagetx.
    Here is a drawing of one from a 150D, which you might use to make one (use a non-magnetic material!). If anyone has the dimensions for other models (like the 4000, which is much different), please send them and I will make similar drawings available.
15. Where can I buy Calibration Tapes?
    Magnetic Reference Laboratory makes them. Some sources of tape and supplies (see 10 above) sell them
16. A replacement Pinch Roller is not available for my deck. Can someone rebuild mine?
    Try Terry Witt

Site Design and hosting by DanDLyin Last revised January 14, 2005

Please read our Terms of Use for this site