Test Equipment

[funkytonk]

Hey folks,

Lately I have been buying some test equipment to calibrate my decks. Specifically the Tascam reel to reel machines (I have a 42 and 48). There are lots of options out there so I am wondering what others on this board use. I am looking for what brands or models you use of things like an oscilloscope, tone generator, frequency counters etc... Also computer software programs that work in place of some of this equipment.

Thanks for your input.
Tim

 

[Beck]

Tascam manuals have a long list, but you don't need as much as you might think.

There are a few free software o-scopes out there. A decent digital multi-meter is all you need for use as a frequency counter and measuring dB (voltage). If you have a test tone oscillator like the Foxtex TT-15 you don’t need dB pads because it has a switch for 0, -10 and –30 dB. Same goes for a software oscillator.

You don’t need a wow & flutter meter for routine maintenance. Just replace the pinch roller and capstan drive belt, adjust the capstan tension with a spring scale and you’re done. There is nothing else you can do about wow & flutter anyway except get and keep the machine in proper calibration. As a rule, if you can't hear it it's probably ok.

You definitely need a calibration tape from MRL or TEAC. Unfortunately that is one costly thing you can’t do without.

I listed a few things in the thread below some time ago

https://homerecording.com/bbs/showpost.php?p=1579981&postcount=9

https://homerecording.com/bbs/showpost.php?p=2052052&postcount=6

Radio Shack keeps moving their links around (How do they stay in business ?)
http://www.radioshack.com/search/index.jsp?kwCatId=&kw=22-811

And here is another O-scope
http://www.dsp4swls.de/download/oszilight.zip

 

[funkytonk]

Thanks for the info, much appreciated. I am going to try that download for the o-scope.

I have the test tapes. So the big purchase is out of the way, unless I talk myself into buying this tektronix o-scope that has been in the local classifieds all week.

Thanks again Beck!