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Reel to reel repair - is it worth it?

Inherited a Teac X-3 reel-to-reel from my father, along with some tapes he had recorded. In anticipation of getting it, I even bought some more pre-recorded tapes off Ebay. After I got the Teac home, I found it didn't work (reel won't engage when "play" is pushed). Only repairman in town gave $150 estimate. Is this reel-to-reel worth $150 to repair? Hate to just throw it in the trash as it has sentimental value. Even though I have no experience with these kinds of repairs, is this something I should try to repair? I can take apart anything. Fixing it and putting it back together again is another story. Any thoughts?
rockyboy
rockyboy OP
335 posts
 
Magfan - I too owned a Teac 4010 in the late 70's until someone stole it out of my apartment along with Pioneer speakers and quadrophonic receiver. I know tapes degrade over time and can really gum up heads; but I'm going to get the player repaired and just play with it. Again, can't imagine just throwing it out with the trash. And I've determined I can't repair it. Thanks for the offer on the compressor/expander; I have no experience with one. When you have time, shoot me an email explaining what it does. I may take you up on your offer down the road. Right now, my solid state Essence amp is out for repair, my tubed Melos amp needs to go to the shop and my VPI Classic has a motor issue. So, my system is down. Once I get my equipment back on my shelves, I'll turn my attention to the repair of the Teac.
buconero117
2,311 posts
 
No. Keep it as eye candy, and save yourself many, many dollars not to mention the time sleeping it around. I've owned over eight R2R decks, still have two. All will need repair as the rollers, belts etc. will fall apart. I keep two working with service provided by the former East Coast Teac service manager. While I have many pre recorded reels, I mostly play AFRTS broadcast tapes. Very high quality. Our government spared no expense in creating them.
jazzerdave
163 posts
 
I've seen my dad do complete rebuilds on Teac, Revox, Studer, and Tandbergs. I'm not without my own skill, but I'd don't think I'd ever want to repair a reel-to-reel myself. I'll agree that they can sound excellent when they're running properly.

Good luck
rockyboy OP
335 posts
 
If I can keep the repair bill under $150, I'm going to do it. I understand that they're not without issues. Again, finding tapes that are in good condition is a challenge.
magfan
1,583 posts
 
At last springs THE Show in Newport Beach I saw several R2R based systems whic h sounded terrific.
One of the system owners had access to 'master tape' level recordings. Too bad each pass thru the machine takes a little off the top.

So, such systems are still out there and sounding good. Only you can decide if upkeep and material sourcing issues outweigh the 'cool factor' and sound.
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