Can we finally put Reel to Reel out of its misery? Put it to rest people.

@vinny55 Like with all things, I try to keep to a lower budget. I have a TEAC 2300s. It’s seems like a solid player. I had it setup and calibrated by a pro here in the Greater Los Angeles area. It handles 7 inch stereo 4-track reels at 3 3/4 and 7 1/2 inches per second (ips).

When it comes to what sounds best, generally stay away from late 1970s and early 80s, everything else has sounded pretty good!

The Pioneer rt701/707 were very well built units. 40lb well built!
Much more compact and less agricultural looking than some other units.
They could only handle 7 inch reels but playing at 7.5ips they are more than capable of delivering a stellar performance.

Best of all as they were plentiful when new, still lots of great examples around and prices are fair for a good working serviced unit, ($500 to $700).
Parts still readily available for most normal wear items.

Chakster you probably can’t find your rap on R2R, but sound quality was never a requirement for rap anyhow. 

If a good CD is recorded to reel, the playback is pure "analog". What you have, is a noise free LP.

I guess it depends on your definition of a "good CD"?
What is the recording DNA of said CD to qualify?

Everyone is going to have a differing opinion and that is just about where this thread stands right now. Difference of opinions only.