TEAC A 3340 4 track recorder should I?

[theblackBay]

I'm looking at buying privately a 3340 not the s model from a lady in the local region she knows nothing about them but states that it's in “Not working” order because it lights up but the reels do not spin when the play button is engaged, how are these for parts I’m looking to bounce tracks to it to then return to a DAW, basically to just get the sound of the Tape and machine.

I'm an artist and as such pretty versatile I will be able to get a unique sound out of this machine if I can get it going, but how are they on parts/hassle?

Thank you.

The whole Analog and "warm" thing is not overblown you Analog People are much nicer than digital forums.

 

[Muckelroy]

They are very robust machines, and pretty easy to work on, compared with other pro-sumer models like this.

However, the electronics can be pretty noisy, compared with later model machines. If noise will be an issue, you may want to consider finding a Tascam 34-4, or 44-4. There's tons of options. I won't pretend to try to list them all.

Just be aware that while the 3440 is a great machine, and the fix is probably a relatively easy one, it's gonna be a noisy ride. If noise isn't an issue, ignore me.

-callie-

 

[ECC82]

You state the "lady in the local region she knows nothing about them". If I remember correctly, the 3340 will not spin (motors turning) without the tape break arm in path either held by hand or threaded with tape on. This may be a "working" unit. Keep us posted.

PS: Analog rules but takes up a lot of space!

 

[Muckelroy]

no crap..........you're probably right!

 

[cjacek]

lights up but the reels do not spin when the play button is engaged, how are these for parts ...........
..........
but how are they on parts/hassle?

The right tension arm must be lifted in order for the play button, rew / ff to work. Another thing to check is the belt. It most likely needs to be replaced and the pinch roller checked if it's still good. All the metal parts in the tape path, heads, lifters, guides, must be cleaned propely, for a mirror like finish. It's not too much work if no other issues are present or the machine is not too worn out. Yeah, it may be a working unit but the lady may not know any better.

 

[theblackBay]

Thank you guys

yeah I figured as much with the play engagement, but I just didn't want to say it because I probably would jinx myself as I understand it I don't think the tape Reel was even put onto it for the playback trial.

Muckelroy naa i won't ignore you, you sound like too much of a nice person.. you know what they say about noise..... if you pretend it's not there everyone will say "wow that recording is a bit noisy".....

But make it a feature like "featuring REAL TAPE NOISE!!!!!" and everyone one loves it. ha ha ha .

basically noise isn't a real problem unless it would be considered unacceptable like as in the recording signal is not able to be heard. type.

ECC82 yeah big like 30kg big! I’m picking it up if i get it. i have to drive out to the country to get it, Orange for anyone that has heard of it NSW Australia.
nice and cold there.

i'll keep you posted on how i go. i also have the option of getting a cheap Akia M-10 less is known about it basically it has been in storage but was working when last used it's like $50 worth it?

thanks for all the replies
if anyone as any digital questions happy to help.

 

[JWR1]

I'd get it. If it has not been used for quite some time, the pinch roller may not engage, it could be that simple. These are fabulous machines. I got mine out of mothballs just last week.