What makes tape sound better than vinyl ?

Many years ago I noticed that the tape seemed to do something nice to the sound of vinyl.

Turned out the reason was because I was using headphones and the turntable didn’t like the vibration from the speakers. So I went about the process of providing for a vibration-free stand, platform and turntable and then the difference vanished- in fact went in favor of the LP.

Stand: custom Sound Anchors on Aurios Pro bearings
platforms: UltraResolution Technology (n.l.a.)

The best way to eliminate unwanted vibration is to get rid of the needle and of the arm, that's, theoretically, laser-based playback. But it was never really developed. Maybe one day.

Besides, what about 1/2" tape machines ? Not that decks don't have vibration interference, they do, so you deal with it as much as possible. Replacing lamp cord power cable should improve it further, I guess.

I would be remiss if I did not mention that this whole thing could simply be another case of copies always sounding better than the originals. You know, like copies of CDs always sounding better than the originals. I know, I know, you thought that was some kind of aberration. Just one of those things, just one of those craaazy things...🎼

orpheus10, thank you. Yeah, that's the one, but A810 and perhaps A807 would be enough for me. There are A810 and A807 on ebay now, sold by some Germans, with custom tube outboard playback head preamp. That's how I would eventually want it. I'll get there in time, no doubt.