Tape Squeak

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srsmoak

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I'm integrating analogue into my digital recording platform and have recently acquired a Fostex A8 w. VU meter. It's been thoroughly tested and the ins and outs work. Machine seems in good shape.

Problem is that I'm having "tape" squeak. (I'm guessing it's tape.) I recorded some drum tracks a few days ago with minimal problems (most were vol and input related which I can fix on my end). Now, however, I'm trying to lay down an acoustic (on a different tape) and the tape has begun to squeak. I changed out the tape with the old one and even it squeaked. What's going on? Why would my Fostex begin squeaking? Is it the tape? Or do I need lubricant for the heads. Machine has been demaged and heads recently cleaned if this should be a factor.

chip
 
You meant the tape itself is making a physical squeak, correct?

What brand of tape & how old is it? Might be sticky-shed syndrome.

FYI, you do not lube heads.
 
Yes, tape is squeaking. I removed tape from reels and pressed trigger so that it would run w/out tape and no squeaking. Then I put tape back on and after about 30 secs. of record it starts to squeaking.

Tape is AMPEX 456 I acquired from previous owner. It was unopened and still in shrink wrap. I now have some Quantegy 456 so perhaps (thinking it could be "old" tape) I'll try that today.

thanks.
 
Make sure to clean the tape path with q-tips and 90+% alcohol before you use the new tape. And I mean a really thorough cleaning with lots of cleaning sticks and alcohol.

If the old tape had sticky-shed it will leave residue behind that will continue to give you problems. Ampex 456 made before 1994 will usually be in a sticky state even if it was sealed.

-Tim
 
Maybe an issue with the tape rubbing against a warped reel??
 
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