Fostex E-16 or Tascam 388?

[sunnyb]

I've been recording digitally for a little while, and i want to finally step up to some decent analog gear. I have found a fostex e-16 and a tascam 388 locally. I can work with just 8 tracks, but 16 would be cool. they're both in great condition apparently. One is 1/2 inch tape the other 1/4. The tascam has a built in mixer which is pretty cool. I'm new at this, and I really don't know what would be better to start off on. Does anyone have experience with either or both machines? Is one harder to use/more reliable/better sounding than the other?

 

[cjacek]

If condition is equal, I'd get the 388, 'cause it's a complete unit and it uses less expensive 1/4" tapes, whereas the FOSTEX needs 1/2" and an external mixer. Get both if the condition is same and price is right. You can't go wrong with local. Check them out carefully though.

The 388 is best to start out on.

 

[sunnyb]

thanks! i was leaning towards the 388. is the fidelity of the 388 higher or lower than the e-16? also, how is the board on the 388? are the mic pres ok?

 

[THX1136]

No direct experience, but anecdotal evidence seems to indicate that the pre's are of good quality in the 388 - obviously there is always something better. cjacek's advice is quite sound. I'd go for the 388. Realize there are trade offs with narrow track widths, but you should be quite pleased with the 388. You could even pursue a hybrid approach by combining the 388 along with digital to extend you track count should you desire to do so. Best of luck in your purchase - whichever you decide on.

 

[cjacek]

thanks! i was leaning towards the 388. is the fidelity of the 388 higher or lower than the e-16? also, how is the board on the 388? are the mic pres ok?

The FOSTEX is a 15ips machine vs 7 1/2ips (for the 388) but don't let that sway you. Case in point, I've got a 388 and also other recorders which can do 7 1/2 & 15ips and most of the time I opt to run at the slower speed 'cause it's pretty close. It's not only about track width and speed but about the quality of the electronics and head design. The 388 sounds surprisingly good for what it is. The mixing section / pres are very good. The 388 has a cult like following around these parts.

 

[eh91311]

I'd pick the 388 as well. If the Fostex E-16 was in good condition and working, you should consider it, but not if it needs any repair, calibration or parts. 1/2" tape is costly these days. 1/4" for the 388 is less, but your options for new tape is limited: RMGI LPR35 or Quantegy 457 if they indeed have resumed manufacturing.

 

[trancedental]

Never heard or seen a Tascam 388 so can't comment on that machine.

I have, however, heard the difference between the Fostex E-16 & B-16 (Used this in studios) & the other 1/4" Fostex machines A-8 / M-80 (have owned both of these) & R8.

The B-16, E-16 & most probably the G-16 are built to better electronic specifications, & do sound much better than their 1/4" Fostex counterparts.

I have heard & used these machines though good standard mixers & outboard & would say don't rule out a machine in good condition & a fair price if you can pair it up with a good mixing desk.

 

[nate_dennis]

One is 1/2 inch tape the other 1/4.

Just a point on tape width and recording: Doubling the tape width only affects the sound if the tracks stay the same. So you are doubling your tape width, but your doubling your track count too . . . .so your track width stays the same.

Again, no direct experience with either, but many great recordings have been done on the 388 and parts seem to be readily available.

 

[Talldog]

Go for the 388. Its all in one and they sound great. If you get the 16 you'll have to get a mixer and cabling.

 

[RRuskin]

Go for the 388. Its all in one and they sound great. If you get the 16 you'll have to get a mixer and cabling.

The biggest downside of recorder/mixer units like the 388 is that when when they break your entire system is down until repairs are completed. Another drawback is the inability to improve upon either the recorder or the mixer because of their electronic "Siamese Twin" relationship.