Syntax has raised a good point regarding finding tape stock. If you ever find tapes referred to as "one pass" you should grab them. That means the studio recorded on it only once and filed it away.
But then there is the issue of the magnetic tape elements breaking down due to age and/or poor storage. Maybe find an audiophile who is selling off all his tapes that were well cared for.
But then there is the issue of the magnetic tape elements breaking down due to age and/or poor storage. Maybe find an audiophile who is selling off all his tapes that were well cared for.