A New Reel to Reel Tape Deck?

m-db,

Here is a link shared by miles_b_astor recently. http://avshowroomsforums.com/showthread.php?5-Companies-Currently-Producing-15ips-Reel-to-Reel-tapes...!

You can get them for a little less that half that amount.  Also, if there are any local studio's in your area, they too will sell off safety copies and masters of older recordings.  

My son has my old Pioneer 909.  This was my wife's favorite machine. She loved the quarter track format (don't have to rewind to play) and the auto reverse.  It's also an excellent sounding machine, with superb build quality.  I seen one once modded with half track heads and high speed.  
I wish that were an option for us all, as that was a very popular machine.

I recommend to all those that have a 900 series machine to loosen the tension a little on the tape tensioners.  It really saves on head wear and doesn't need to be so tight with the dual capstans.

I find that analog tape is really the best storage method for archiving recordings.  There are tape formulas that have held up well for over 50 years.  Of course, having a safety copy with a newer formula is always safe measure.

Since you mentioned the 909 and it's quarter track, you should check out some of the old releases in that format from the 60's and 70's.  If you are a Beatles fan it will knock your socks off.  Those old Capitol tapes are outstanding!

Norman

Thanks Norman. I saw a release from The Tape Project that was expensive a few years back and never looked any further so thanks for all the links. While still pricy it would be worthwhile to have a copy of something in all formats to show off.

My first reel to reel was a used 7" Ampex deck. It just blew away my Benjamin Miracord / Shure turntable.

To me Pioneer has been a unique electronic company over the years designing and producing some real gems among their mass of consumer fare. The Laserdisc, the 909 and 707 series, I've suggested those Brian Jones designed speakers to more than a few friends, and my Elite 60" Kuro still blows me away.    

m-db.

I love the old Ampex and Crown machines.  Pioneer is a unique company.  Many don't realize the commitment they made to the open reel format.  Before doing studio work in the late 70s, I did some time in the Chicago area radio stations.  Several used Pioneer half track machines.  Before that, I never even considered them, but seeing those decks run a literal 24/7 blew me away.  That and the plug in head assemblies.  They were built to last and are super easy to maintain.  Been using them since.  I like my Pioneers 1050, much better than my ReVox B77 series I.

I also agree about Pioneer speakers.  Even back to the HPM series.  Always wanted a good set of HPM 100's

Norman

So, has anyone ever heard of this company?  They appear to be in the game.  Make me smile.

http://www.gizmag.com/horch-house-project-r2r/41391/

Norman

Hi Norman,

Your post, 1/13/126: I have a suite of MRL cal tapes and have my Studer tech complete a thorough and proper deck and audio alignment.  It's not unusual to arrive at values different than the stock, default Studer figures.

I've only heard of Horch House for their analog master tape catalog.
 
Sorry that I'm somewhat tardy with replies, perhaps I don't have my notifications setup, properly?

Have a great Sunday!  :-)

Sam