Questoin about Fostex R8 on Craigslist

[jjones1700]

I spotted this listing for a Fostex R8 deck in my local Craigslist site.

http://houston.craigslist.org/msg/725953705.html

Ummm, why would one HAVE to use this deck horizontally vs. vertically? Are the reel adapters the issue? Does it sound like some that would be more work than it's worth if the adapters aren't the issue?

[_brian_]

a bit ambiguous, could be something simple eg the tape catches on the guides depending on whether it is horisontal or verticle, could be that the channel cards are not pushed home & only make contact properly when horizontal. could be anything, you'll have to get in contact with the guy for more info

[avieth]

If it's in good working condition it should function vertically. I prefer to use mine horizontally though.

[analogkid]

no reason I know of that it SHOULDN'T work in either orientation; honestly sounds like the reel holders are failing or missing........ hence the horizontal orientation.



AK

[jjones1700]

So if it is just a fairly simple problem, is it worth $225? I am really wanting a TSR-8, but I could make due with the R8 since it is available. Thanks for the input guys.

[analogkid]

Yep, I would say it is worth $225 if it has no other issues. Hell - I was tempted to contact the guy myself, if the trip to Houston wouldn't cost more than he's asking for the reel hehe.



AK

[jjones1700]

Okay, I was just doing a little research and I have a question. Is the R8 a 1/4" machine or 1/2"? I know the TSR-8 is 1/2". It might be an ignorant question, but I'd like to know before I drop some cash on it. On the plus side, I've already got a 1/4" machine (RT-909) so I could use the new tape I haven't used yet.

One more question, does the R8 accept 10.5" reels or is it just 7"? Sorry for all of the questions, I'm just venturing into the multi-track arena. I've got a 424mkII, M-2516 mixer, and I've got the itch for an 8 track machine!

[avieth]

R8 accepts only 7" reels and uses 1/4" tape. Don't worry though, it successfully squeezes 8 tracks on to a 1/4" and still sounds great.

You should get it. I paid $300 for mine and it was mint. I'm happy with it.

[jjones1700]

Originally Posted by avieth

R8 accepts only 7" reels and uses 1/4" tape. Don't worry though, it successfully squeezes 8 tracks on to a 1/4" and still sounds great.

You should get it. I paid $300 for mine and it was mint. I'm happy with it.

I just might do that.