getting started

[vegashotel]

I just got a pristine and well taken care of Tascam 388 and
I would love to learn all about it before I start recording.
Where can I learn about aligning the tape and
having the heads "biased" (I dont know what that means?)
Basically, I want this thing to work forever, any advice?

 

[cjacek]

I just got a pristine and well taken care of Tascam 388 and
I would love to learn all about it before I start recording.
Where can I learn about aligning the tape and
having the heads "biased" (I dont know what that means?)
Basically, I want this thing to work forever, any advice?

The first thing you need is the owner's / service manual. A good soul on this board, superbeatballer, took the time to scan the entire thing and made it available for download:

http://www.marjorie-plastille.com/

It's about 20 MB but it's well worth it. It explains everything you need to know about all of the 388 functions, maintenance and servicing.

You should also read the following:

PART 1

http://mixonline.com/mag/audio_analog_tape_part_2/index.html

PART 2

http://mixonline.com/mag/audio_analog_tape/index.html

PART 3

http://mixonline.com/mag/audio_analog_tape_part/index.html

The TASCAM 388 is indeed a great all-in-one. Take care of it and it will take care of you!

 

[littlesongs]

i would look for "a reel person" and pick his brain... he is the resident touter of all things teac and has much insight on the 388... it's a great machine that continues to make great records...