Recommendation

  • Thread starter Thread starter clesage
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clesage

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I am looking for a easy-to-use analog set-up. I don't have the technical knowledge to do minor repairs for a reel-to-reel unit (as someone suggested on this forum to all would-be partakers), but is recording onto cassette tape worth it? I record vocals, acoustic guitar, electric guitar, and bass guitar.

I am tired of the issues I've been having with my PreSonus Audiobox USB and I really love the idea of analog.

I don't care if the recording sounds like something produced today because I enjoy hearing the room in the recording and adore the bass sound produced in the '70s. Does anyone have any ideas for me?
 
What would be the best Portastudio in terms of value (quality/price)? At the moment, I don't need anything more than 4-tracks, but 8-tracks might be better, depending upon price.

Thank you in advance!
 
Yes!
Cassette recording is great.Nice and simple,easy to use and not too expensive.
I have a Tascam 246 which is an awesome little recorder.And you can make surprisingly good recordings with them.
You just need to get your hands on Type II cassette tapes when using cassette portastudios.
 
j.harv said:
Yes!
I have a Tascam 246 which is an awesome little recorder
Click to expand...

Thank you for the advice! I've had a look around other parts of the forum and it seems like the concensus is that the Tascam 244 or 246 is the best in the cassette class.

Is there anything similar with XLR inputs?
 
I looked at your other thread where you were discussing your problems with the Presonus. I agree with the guy who suggested you sort out the issues you have with that before jumping into vintage cassette gear.

The basic skills in not overloading mics and preamps apply no matter what recorder you use. You could end up having the same problem with a cassette Portastudio through having not learned how to use a suitably matched mic with the proper gain.

Whatever recorder you choose, learn how to use it correctly.

Tim
 
The 246 is indeed awesome, but the problem is that they're pretty old units. The statement you made about not being able to make minor repairs would suggest to me that the 246 may not be your best bet.

I would suggest the Tascam 424 mk III. It was one of the last 4-tracks that Tascam produced, has excellent sound quality, and, assuming you get one in great condition (of which there are many), you shouldn't need to service it at all. It has XLR inputs too, though it does not have phantom power (most 4-track cassette recorders don't). Expect to pay between $100 to $200 for one in excellent shape on ebay.
 
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