NEW USER: Tascam 388 Won't Play - Can't find similar issue here.

[SLOTH_DEMON]

Are you saying that the capstan is rotating backwards ?

Nope, sorry for the confusion. With the unit upright, it seems to be spinning in the correct direction.

Also, getting the remote is a great idea. Would this simply bypass all of the original controls?

I will check the connections / fuses with a voltmeter and get back to you guys.

Thanks for everyone's input so far. When I get this thing up to snuff I will definitely post my solutions here, as well as recordings.

[SLOTH_DEMON]

Capstan rotating counter clockwise is correct direction.

Sorry for the confusion. With the unit upright, it seems to be spinning in the correct direction.

Also, getting the remote is a great idea. Would this simply bypass all of the original controls?

I will check the connections / fuses with a voltmeter and get back to you guys.

Thanks for everyone's input so far. When I get this thing up to snuff I will definitely post my solutions here, as well as recordings.

[SLOTH_DEMON]

UPDATE: WORKING!!!

So:

1.)I checked the capstan belt. Motor is running smoothly, and belt feels new. Play still did not work.

2.)I replaced the fuses with brand new fuses. Did not affect play button.

3.) I removed the control panel, and the bottom plate that guards the circuitry beneath it. I blew somewhat vigorously inside of the control panel (probably a bad idea). I checked for loose wires, fried resistors, etc. and the circuit board and solders looked solid to my amateur eye. I jiggled the wires a bit, and replaced the bottom plate, and control panel.

4.) I turned on the machine, and after a few clicks, PLAY and RECORD ENGAGED!

5.) I repeatedly used play / record / stop functions. It still works, and I was able to record my first tracks!

I don't really know what I did, and I'm hoping that it was some sticky dust, and not a short in some wire somewhere. I am grateful that the 388 is functioning for the moment!

Now I just need to look up ways to take care of some scratchy EQ knobs & how to clean the machine overall.

THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR HELP THROUGH THIS EVERYONE! What can be done on this forum to show appreciation for the guidance that I have gotten?

[WhinyLittleRunt]

Good deal! Sometimes just opening stuff up and poking around aimlessly helps, though unexplained. Glad you have it working, I love my 388.