ABSOLUTE reel to reel newbie

[furly]

Preface: I know nothing whatsoever. I've been recording on a digital four track for way too long for a manchild of my inclinations (I got it when I was fourteen or something). I might just get a casette four (or eight) track, but there's something very romantic about reel to reel (though maybe not to grizzled veterans). Before I do anything, I'd like to know what's a good, sturdy, newbie-friendly eight track reel to reel recorder and mixer combination(s). I'm also ready to buy a good, hopefully great, microphone (something versatile, maybe biased a bit in one area but will last until I can build my arsenal). Any general tips are very much appreciated.

Sincerely,
Mr. Furly

[Vagodeoz]

I don't know about reel to reel, but as for the mikes, you should get a large diaphragm condenser, you can record pretty much with it.
I don't know what is your budget for the mic but you can get the 100$ Behringer B1, the 400$ Shure Ksm27, the 900$ Akg 414, the 2900$ Neumann U87
Or if you want something more conventional, get the 100$ Shure Sm58 or Sm57.

[cjacek]

Mr. Furly.. Ralph, I presume?

Yes, there is something very romantic about reel to reels, nevermind the other stuff!

I do have some recommendations and one of them being that you look at LOCAL buys ONLY at least so that you start off on the right foot. Later on you can experiment but for now local is your best friend. Where about r u located?

Some (popular) 4 - 8 track recorders to look for, condition being most important (in no particular order): TASCAM 22-4, 34, 34B. 44, 38, 48, 58, TSR-8, TEAC 3440, TEAC 80-8.

Mixers: TASCAM M-30, M-35, M106, M208, M216, M308, M312, M320, TEAC 2A

Prior to doing anything else, become familiar with the following (advice / info applies to all decks):
http://www.analogrules.com/buymachines.html
http://www.analogrules.com/badheads.html
http://emusician.com/daw/emusic_joining_reel_world/
http://homerecording.com/bbs/showthread.php?t=229729

[cjacek]

Also this:
http://www.digitalprosound.com/Htm/T...AnalogTape.htm
http://www.tangible-technology.com/media/media_2.html

[furly]

thank you sir!

[themaddog]

Keep in mind that you'll not only need a reel to reel, but a good mixer as well.

A good start for anyone is the Tascam 388, because it is both an 8 channel mixer and an 8 track recorder.

-MD

[analog aaron]

I don't have any suggestions on a mixer, but I can suggest keeping your eyes open for a Fostex R8 - 8 track reel to reel. You can pick these up for around $200-300 dollars (I know the popular opinion is Tascam, and believe me I love my Tascam gear!, but I've captured some amazing recordings using this Fostex R8)

A.A.

[Hi_Flyer]

I think the common argument against the Fostex R8s is the scarcity of parts, vs a relative of abundance of parts for Tascam machines The tascam machines aren't really that much more expensive than the Fostex R8, plus the Tascam decks are the larger format 1/2" 15IPS (with the exception of the 388).

I'll mention Otari as well, I just picked up an MX5050-8 for $350, which is a pretty good deal, and its a better machine than the consumer TEAC/Tascam machines. It took me a while to find this deal, so you may have to be patient.

just so you know what you are getting into... Be prepared, analog is an investment in time and money. I have been hunting down a deck for a good six months+ now. I have went through two of them, and I have probably spent more time tinkering, repairing, looking for parts, looking for a tech and learning how to maintain the deck than actually RECORDING with the deck. There are some great machines out there that can be had for pennies on the dollar of their original value, but even with the GOOD decks, there are hidden costs as well: replacement parts (yes, these old machines are gonna break down), test/calibration tapes, cabling, cost of balnk tape itself, etc... it adds up fast. plus, there are alot of lemons out there too, and its harder for a newbie to spot them.

cjacek's advice about buying locally is spot on. I would suggest craigslist in your home town, and it wouldn't hurt to put some craigslist wanted ads in some other cities nearby (within driving distance).

good luck!