At United Home Products, in Virginia, I heard several rebuilt and highly modified machines (they specialize in rebuilding Technics, Otari and Tascam machines). They have some Tape Project pre-recorded tapes, but, their favorite use of tape machines is to make recordings from LPs. They don't do this to preserve LPs, rather, they contend that LPs sound better after being re-recorded on tape. I heard the comparison and I don't quite agree, although I can see why some might prefer the taped version. The sound is smooth, open and beautiful sounding after being re-taped, but, I thought it lost a bit of dynamics and the hard edge to the initial attack of some instruments. Still, really good pre-recorded tapes sounded terrific.
I know that companies associated with The Tape Project also modify machines, offer better electronics, etc. (e.g., Bottlehead makes tube electronics for tape machines). I have also heard a re-built Studer machine with custom electronics from Doshi and the tapes I heard on it were fantastic. High speed reel tape has an open top end that is so extended without being harsh or edgy that one does not hear elsewhere.
I will never own a tape machine because of the extreme inconvenience in threading tape, rewinding, re-spooling tape when it spills, splicing breaks, etc. It is not for me, but, I don't deny that well recorded reel to reel is something special.
