
cjacek
Analogue Enthusiast
Is there a downside to pancakes? because 2 extra reels from pancakes seems a lot better than just 1 reel
And just out of curiosity, I was watching this auction for awhile and it ended up selling for quite a bit. It all looks like Ampex 456.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=260504329150&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT
Is the dude that won this auction about to get a bunch of tape that could possibly mess up his machine like the crap I have? haha.
My best advice would be to buy from a fairly popular and busy vendor, to assure fresh stock. Here's one: http://usrecordingmedia-store.stores.yahoo.net/
Yes, use pancakes BUT, BUT... you NEED to be certain that the empty reels that you got off eBay have the removable 3 screw design. It makes mounting a lot easier.

With regard to that AMPEX tape lot for sale on eBay.... Stay very far away from that! Familiarize yourself with this: https://homerecording.com/bbs/showthread.php?t=228067
Generally speaking stay away from back-coated Ampex branded tape, even more so if it's used.