Going for a specific sound, looking for new equipment...

[bearhead]

Hey, guys! I'm EXTREMELY new to this site. I've read a ton of forums regarding techniques, and that. I've never actually posted any threads, though. So, in regards to this post, forgive me if I don't address any of this correctly. Anyway, I have a question about tape machines. I'm thinking about getting rid of my Tascam 424 MKIII to help pay for a reel to reel machine (preferably 8 tracks and up). I'm trying to go for a Papercuts "You Can Have What You Want" sort of sound, but with a blend of The Apples in stereo's "Fun Trick Noisemaker". Any knowledge by giving a listen as to what I can do to achieve this sort of sound. Yes, I know they're both completely different styles in recording, but I'm asking for recommendations. I've been recommended to go for either an Otari MX5050 4 track or a Fostex R80. The only thing about the R80 is that it's only a 1/4" recorder. I want to go for 1/2" tape (or even 1" tape even though it's expensive and hard to come by). I'm looking for a cheap(ER) solution. I don't want to buy crap. I want a good sound at a good price. Anything?

[bearhead]

I guess no one's going to help me out.

[Bobbsy]

I fear it's because there's no obvious answer to your question within the realm of analogue tape. What you're asking for is very specialist gear and will either be very expensive or very much "luck of the draw" for second hand stuff.

It won't be what you want to hear, but if you want "good sound at a good price" you're going to have to move in the direction of digital recording, either with a specific piece of hardware or DAW software on a computer.

If you want to stick with multitrack analogue, you'll have to resign your self to join the world of "enthusiasts".

Since my 8 track one inch recorder was sold almost ten years ago (for more than I paid for it despite it needing a new belt) I can't help you personally. My only suggestion is to see if you get more response in the Analogue forum here on HR.

Good luck whichever way you go.

[TripleM]

I don't know what those bands sound like. But I will tell you that when trying to sound like someone else, the sound you produce is usually a bigger factor than the equipment you use to record it. Not to say equipment doesn't matter - it does. But if you don't sound like those bands to begin with (and I mean REALLY sound like those bands), you're not going to get a recording that sounds like them.

[miroslav]

Unless the equipment was used in some FX sort of way....the sounds you hear are those of the band...not so much the equipment.
What you want to do is focus more on getting into the mindset of a particular "sound"...and then go about recording it with whatever gear you have to get it.

Sure...a tape deck and tube mics and certain guitar amps...etc...will add a certain flavor, but it's more about the songwriting, the arrangement and of course, the performance.
Most bands/artists that have a signature sound...get it from their performance. It's THEM...that's how they sound.