Hi all,
I came across two DAT machines being sold for cheap by a guy upgrading his studio. Got both the 3700 and 3800 for about $150. I knew they had high hours and was gambling that at least one would work well (both look in good shape). Well, both units play and record, but the SV3800 (with 3,400 hours on it!) will play clearly for a short time, but then start sounding very "scratchy," kinda like extreme digital distortion. The "cleaning" indicator flashes on the display, but it continues to sound bad. If I hit "stop" and then play it again, it may sound clear again, at least for a short time.
Anyone have any experience with how these Panasonics degrade over time? Does this behavior mean throw it in the garbage, or maybe just needs some servicing? I'm thinking of just eBaying it starting at $50 looking for someone who repairs these.
Thanks
I came across two DAT machines being sold for cheap by a guy upgrading his studio. Got both the 3700 and 3800 for about $150. I knew they had high hours and was gambling that at least one would work well (both look in good shape). Well, both units play and record, but the SV3800 (with 3,400 hours on it!) will play clearly for a short time, but then start sounding very "scratchy," kinda like extreme digital distortion. The "cleaning" indicator flashes on the display, but it continues to sound bad. If I hit "stop" and then play it again, it may sound clear again, at least for a short time.
Anyone have any experience with how these Panasonics degrade over time? Does this behavior mean throw it in the garbage, or maybe just needs some servicing? I'm thinking of just eBaying it starting at $50 looking for someone who repairs these.
Thanks