What makes tape sound better than vinyl ?

@orpheus10

Excellent information, thank you.
The top ten list actually contains a model I owned back in the day. #7. The Aiwa.
Must research the revox b215...

@Inna

I think the 3a,4a and 5a were made in Malaysia? Not Japan agreed, not sure just how much that will affect the sound

Some information is correct while some is misleading or plain wrong.
The very best Nakamichi deck is 1000ZXL, Limited and regular. The very best Tandberg, aside from pro models, is 3014A and 3014 is close. Revox cannot compete at this level. Studer is better, uses top Sony heads, but cassette Studer is not reel Studer.

Revox B710 and B215 should be good for your purpose, but they are expensive as well.

I have no idea why I'm wasting my time trying to help somebody find a cassette deck when it makes absolutely no sense; right now I'm listening to the 2 track, and no cassette deck I've ever heard is even in the same ball park.

I "gave" my ton of cassette tapes away, and never looked back. A good cassette deck is not cheap, and with a few more hundred, you could have a good reel to reel. Plus I've seen reels that cost no more than expensive cassette decks, but audiophiles can rationalize the irrational.

@orpheus10 
I certainly appreciate the help and advice and seriously hope you do not think you are wasting your time!
Since when has any audiophile been accused of being rational.....lol.
It may be a passing phase but its one I am interested in right now.
R2r may follow who knows?
From what I see of the successful sales of cassette decks on eBay I would have little problem moving a deck on again at a later date.