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Reel to Reel uses -

My wife and I love to entertain.  It never ceases to surprise me how many will walk over to my stereo and stare at my Reel to Reel tape deck.  Some under the age of 35, will ask what it is? Others want to know why I have it, and what do I use it for?  Of course I answer their questions, but now it makes we wonder how others use their machines?  I have been following a couple of high end blogs that I really enjoy and see that one gentlemen uses his machine to play master tape copies.  I do this as well, but have no where near the selection that he does.  I make copies of my favorite LP's to play when guests are over, and also make my own master tapes using a couple of neuman's microphones.  I record small jazz trios and solo artists straight to the machine.  People are amazed at how 'real' these tapes sound.  My main reel to reel is a Pioneer RT-1050 high speed half track.  I have a second just like it that I use for the above mentioned site recordings.  I also have a ReVox B-77, a Sony TC-765, and a Crown 822, all half track machines.  Anyone out there making your own masters?

Norman
normansizemore
zavato's avatar
zavato
1,410 posts
 
Thanks!
c1ferrari
464 posts
 
Hi Norman,

I'm interested in live-to-2 track analog reel recordings, as well.  I have a couple of Studer A-820/2CH decks for recording at home and am in search of a correctly-priced remote location deck.

Good luck to you!  :-)

Sam
mountainsong's avatar
mountainsong
422 posts
 
Hi guys, I am glad that i came across your comments. I have been very interested in start with Reel to Reel but i need advice since I have zero experience with it.
I just like the idea of playing music in RtR equipment.
I would really appreciate advice about what could be my first reel to reel unit and where is safe to get it?
highly appreciate your help.
Kind regards and I wish i could add more to the topic.
thank you
normansizemore OP
601 posts
 
Hello Sam,
There are many to choose from. I originally used a NAGRA with fine results however 10.5 " reels are a must for me and the extension arms needed to accomodate the large reels for me were a problem. That and the machine must be laid onto a table top. I was always having trouble with people getting to close to the spinning reels and the extension arms are fragile. The Pioneer RT 1050 is made for location work. It has excellent specs and is very robust. It is also an excellent sounding machine. It comes in a "road case", with a front cover. The one I use at home looks new, the one I use for live recording look very well used but it functions perfectly. Also I have several NOS head blocks which are plug and play. You might search one out. They are multi voltage and parts are still obtainable. Also it has NAB and IEC bias profiles.  Now. I wish I had an 820!  Maybe someday. 
Norman

normansizemore OP
601 posts
 
Mountainsong,
There are many good machines available. Don't be afraid to buy a used machine as most were very well built. I would get half track machine as that will allow you to play master copies. Sony, ReVox, TEAC, Tascam, Otari, Crown, Studer, Denon, Pioneer and Tandberg all made excellent machines.  Find one that has been well maintained as servicing a worn machine can be expensive.  Deepending on your budget, there are several companies that refurbish these machines to like new condition. That or seek one out from and original owner who has maintained his machine. You will never regret owning a fine feel to feel. 
Norman
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