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Is there an 'Audiophile' Reel-to-Reel Machine for Under $1,000?

I inherited my dad's home made reel-to-reel tapes and would like to start trying one or two or so of today's 'audiophile' tapes or 'high end' tapes at home.

I currently listen to records - mainly UK and USA classic rock, pop, reggae, electronica, folk and movie and TV sound tracks. 

Is there an obvious 'audiophile' reel-to-reel machine(s) to consider for under $1,000?   Thank you in advance for your thoughts!

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noromance's avatar
noromance
10,020 posts
 

Not really. A used Revox B77 or Sony TC765 but would need to be serviced. Refurbished units go for $3-5k.

jasonbourne71's avatar
jasonbourne71
1,282 posts
 

A Pioneer 707 is a good recommendation! I have one. Excellent sound for an affordable price. 

kennyc
1,676 posts
 

+1 @noromance 

A decent “working” R2R will cost significantly more

inna
7,627 posts
 

I haven't heard of one. Maybe $2k if you are very lucky, and you may still have to service it soon enough.

 

larryi
4,136 posts
 

Not only would you have to be extremely lucky to get a $3000 machine in good shape, you will have to get lucky finding good pre-recorded tapes.  Good tapes, that clearly beat out decent vinyl records can cost many hundreds of dollars each.  Blank tapes for recording costs $96 for a 2500 ft. reel.  This is an expensive niche in this hobby.

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