Studer vs Otari

I own a Technics RS-1500 and an Otari 4 track MX 5050 that comes in two pieces. Since I've owned a number of reel to reel decks, I see things a lot of people don't see; like tape handling for example; the more expensive Otari is a beauty to behold, the tape moves silently without a sound as do all of the most expensive decks, but it's extremely complex because it's a "professional" machine.

The Technics is reliable and easy to work on, I replaced all the capacitors in mine with "Black Gates", and I also replaced all of the transistors; quite naturally I get superior audio.

Since the Otari is "quarter track" and the Technics is half track, comparing the two is like comparing apples and oranges; the half track naturally sounds superior.

I don't care what brand I got, I wouldn't want anything less than a half track.

In regard to your question, although I've never owned a Studer, from what I know, that's the one to get, but I'm more than satisfied with my Technics.

Both Studer and Otari have only XLR balanced connections, something that would give me a headache and additional expenses. Neither my phono stage nor my amp has XLRs. Using even the best adapters, like Purist Audio, is not so good, Jensen transformers should be better but still would degrade the sound. I would not have this problem with Technics, it certainly would be the least expensive way to get into this. I would both seek out master dubs and record myself from vinyl, and even from cd player from time to time. Most of the time I listen to compilations with some notable exceptions and I don't enjoy moving the needle every 5-10 minutes.

Inna, I've had my Technics 1500 for 20 years, and it's never been to the shop, plus you get good support from Panasonic when it comes to parts. Since you already know someone who can make it like new, I don't know why you don't have one?



      http://www.thevintageknob.org/technics-RS-1500U.html

orpheus10, thank you for the link, yes I remember that you have had your Technics for many years.
No, I don't know any open reel decks master technician, but I am sure I would find one. Theoretically, I could even ship to Germany or Switzerland.
Why do I not have one yet ? Sometimes longing is better than having. Is this the case of it ? Only partly. Big expenses - thousands - including tapes. Another source of hesitation - after hearing good master tape dub my turntable will sound like a clock radio by comparison. In addition, I really want to upgrade my Redgum integrated amp to Gryphon integrated within a few years. Again, thousands of dollars and even more of Danish krones. There are also complicated issues of family politics.and whether or not I am willing to finance these projects. I really dislike debts but I also dislike smaller savings. And finally, I cannot choose yet - Studer, Otari or perhaps Technics. My heart says Studer, my head says..Studer. What in me says Otari or Technics then ? Just the wallet, I guess.

Blank tape is too big of a problem to buy a reel of any kind.