Reel-to-Reel Player--Best Playback Deck 4-trk Stereo-Dependable, Easy Repair, Sounds Great


Please list your top 3 reel-to-reel playback decks.

Please keep in mind the following:
-reliability
-consistent dependable playback
-durable
-great sounding (near or just at pro-level would be nice)
-would be great if it had at least two outputs (if it included a dedicated tape head output that would be amazing!)
-around $500-$1000
-easy to get in the USA

I am currently using a Teac 2300s. It sounds pretty good to me...

Thanks.
128x128brettmcee
Pioneer RT-909 & Pioneer RT-707. I have owned both, they sound great and built like tanks.
Here’s a good article (link below). I always had good luck with AKAI’s back in the day (I owned 2). However, the Pioneer models (and possibly TEAC/TASCAM) probably has the most parts, etc available at good prices. I will probably be looking for a unit myself in the next couple of years (I have tons of R2R’s recorded off LP’s, fm radio-concert specials, King Biscuit, etc from back when I was younger). I’ll probably go to a reputable dealer who carries used and look for one that has been serviced. One thing about semi pro models is wear and tear. If the model was actually used in a studio or band situation, the unit may have been used many hours on a daily basis in a not so optimal room (smoke, etc). Many small studios do not service or maintain their equipment like the big one’s did.


https://hometheaterhifi.com/editorial/purchase-open-reel-tape-deck-one/
I sold TEAC many many moons ago and I believe the A2300S was their least expensive reel to reel deck.   I had the next model up which was the A3300S.  The Revox A77 was the best I heard at the time.  My brother had a Pioneer rack mount reel to reel which sounded pretty amazing.  I would make sure any deck I bought would be able to get serviced and parts are still available.  There is a company (can’t remember their name) that totally repairs and modify’s the different decks.  I would talk with them first and see what they say.