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Otari or Technics Reel-to-Reel ?

Hi.
I am thinking about getting one of those in the future. I am sure I would want Studer but they are too expensive for me. I want the deck to be able to record on 7.5 and 15 and to play on 3.75, 7.5 and 15, both half-track and quater-track tapes.
I would be recording from vinyl making compilations and listening to studio recordings whenever I could get them.
I would be prepared to pay to have it properly cleaned aligned and calibrated.
I actually never delt with RTR, but in my heart I am a tape man not vinyl man.
What would your recommendations and advice be? I would appreciate any input based on knowledge and experience.
inna
cleeds
6,276 posts
 
The Otari can be purchased for either half - or quarter-track, but it can't do both, IIRC; Technics did make machines that played both formats. But both Otari and Technics are better machines than the TEACs, imo.

The Tandberg TD-20A and TD-20SE are good decks, too.
effischer
573 posts
 
I had a TEAC A-3440 multi-track back in the day. Go for Otari or Tandberg - they have a very strong following and are serviceable. Note that head alignment isn't enough - you also have to bias the record circuit for the tape(s) you want to use. I suggest you bias for a tape that is still manufactured. Not sure what's out there anymore.

Good luck & happy listening!
clio09
3,375 posts
 
I have two Otari decks. The MX5050 BII-2 and a Mark III. The former I use to record and playback and the latter I turned into a transport for playback only. Signal is taken from the heads and sent to a tube tape head amp. I highly recommend these decks and RMGI tape which I use to record with.
inna OP
7,923 posts
 
Would you recommend BII-2 or Mark III? For both recording and playback. I would be recording on 7.5 and 15. Is the difference significant in case of high quality signal?
inna OP
7,923 posts
 
I am not quite sure why but I too am inclined to getting Otari. And, yes, I agree with the world needing more tape fans. Back to the roots, not to mention the best sound.
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