TEAC A-3340S what mixer to use?

[vihuela]

Hey Vihuela, check your PM above.

Thank you.

 

[vihuela]

I followed the diagram to connect the 2a/MB20 to the A-3340s. I connected a mic via the inputs on the mb-20 (I don’t have a a cd player to experiment with the mixer function). I can hear normally through all input and channels of the mixer and can use the routing buttons. When trying to record to the 3340 I can get normal playback (through the mixer) only on channel/track 3. When I try to record on the other tracks I only get very low and distorted audio back. All the meters show me I’m getting good signal into the tape machine. The mixer I believe is running normally and think it’s a problem with the 3340. Frustrating but I’m thinking I need to find someone to take a look at the 3340.

 

[ecc83]

I followed the diagram to connect the 2a/MB20 to the A-3340s. I connected a mic via the inputs on the mb-20 (I don’t have a a cd player to experiment with the mixer function). I can hear normally through all input and channels of the mixer and can use the routing buttons. When trying to record to the 3340 I can get normal playback (through the mixer) only on channel/track 3. When I try to record on the other tracks I only get very low and distorted audio back. All the meters show me I’m getting good signal into the tape machine. The mixer I believe is running normally and think it’s a problem with the 3340. Frustrating but I’m thinking I need to find someone to take a look at the 3340.

Your computer can be an excellent signal source. Even the 3.5mm headphone output should be of near CD quality but a very basic interface would be even better and give you jack outputs. Look at the basic Behringer UMC series?

Audacity can be all the software you need and will play radio programmes (our Radio 3 "SOUNDS" player is very good quality) Audacity will also generate sine tones of any frequency up to 22kHz (for a 44.1kHz sample rate) If the computer has a CD player? Sorted. If not you can get a very good USB mech for $20 or so.

Dave.

 

[TalismanRich]

I followed the diagram to connect the 2a/MB20 to the A-3340s. I connected a mic via the inputs on the mb-20 (I don’t have a a cd player to experiment with the mixer function). I can hear normally through all input and channels of the mixer and can use the routing buttons. When trying to record to the 3340 I can get normal playback (through the mixer) only on channel/track 3. When I try to record on the other tracks I only get very low and distorted audio back. All the meters show me I’m getting good signal into the tape machine. The mixer I believe is running normally and think it’s a problem with the 3340. Frustrating but I’m thinking I need to find someone to take a look at the 3340.

Welcome to the world of 50 yr old tech!

First step in your debugging would be to unplug the mixer, plug a mic straight into the Teac, record and then listen to the headphone outputs. Check each channel. Check the four line output into an receiver or amp. Do those work? If those don't work, then you need service on the tape deck.

Once you know you have a working tape deck, THEN and only then, move on to checking the channels of the Model 2.

 

[vihuela]

Welcome to the world of 50 yr old tech!

First step in your debugging would be to unplug the mixer, plug a mic straight into the Teac, record and then listen to the headphone outputs. Check each channel. Check the four line output into an receiver or amp. Do those work? If those don't work, then you need service on the tape deck.

Once you know you have a working tape deck, THEN and only then, move on to checking the channels of the Model 2.

I’ve mostly done that troubleshooting on the 3340 by itself but will do it again carefully (I don’t think I independently checked the outputs) using both of your suggestions. Thanks!

 

[BeatleFred]

It sounds like the issue is related to the recorder, to be sure, you should test it without the mixer to see if you get the same results as before with three distorted tracks.

By the way, if you dont have a cd player, you could also input music thru your cellphone into the mixer, you just need a 1/8" to dual rca cable.

To try and further pinpoint the problem: What is the background history of the A-3340: was the seller able to give any details when you purchased it in regard to any servicing that was ever done? Was the recorder used alot over the years or was it sitting in storage for a long time? These are all important details to find out when buying a vintage recorder to avoid unexpected surprises when something does not work as expected.

How are the condition of the 3 heads? If they are very worn and/or filthy, then I imagine it would negatively affect the sound quality you're getting. Have you atleast cleaned them with the proper solution (denatured, 99%, etc)?

Also good to regularly clean the capstan and pinch roller as well.

Ps: what brand of tape are you using to record on?