What is the best Reel To Reel machine ever built?


Everyone who has listened to master tapes or dubs knows about the well balanced sound they provide. But it is also important to have a fine tape recorder or playing machine to enjoy the tapes' qualities in a good system.
Maybe my question was raised once before but the relevance of the topic is now greater as the tapes are back to more and more audiophile friends, especially those who are owning excellent phono chains.

I have seen many big & professional machines being recently offered and sold on e-bay, Audiogon and other platforms and I am discussing within a small group which machine is really the "holy grail" among the R2Rs. So why not here. I am interested in findings.
thuchan
Sam, the best mixer for on-location is none at all if you can get away with it!

I use Neumann U-67s. They have their own faults but those are far outweighed by their benefits :)

Acknowledged and agreed, Ralph!
That's why I'm looking for a Nagra IV-S ;-)

Very best regards,
Sam
Neumanns, especially the tube-mikes are great for recording. I also have good experiences with the Studer mixers, if they are checked and in a good condition.
Recording on Tapes is wonderful, even at home!

best @ fun only
The week after next week my new machine will be finished. I had to build a special stand etc. I will then definitely post an image here. Maybe someone has seen that kind of unit somewhere before...

best @ fun only