Testing Reel to Reel Without Tape

[elly-d]

Hello, hoping someone can help. I have a Fostex e16, had it in storage for many years and I am wanting to know if it works before spending some money on a reel of tape (I have no tape to test it with). I remember trying the functions holding the tension arms to get the motors running and this works, but only if i hold PLAY or FWD or RWD. If I let go it stops slowly. Is this normal or should it play etc in this situation?

Thanks.

Hoping to get it going again as I am making music again digitally but hope to get some of that analogue back in my life.

Ellis.

 

[jamesperrett]

There's an optical tape sensor which you need to cover if you want it to work without keeping the buttons pressed. You'll find it next to the left hand roller.

 

[elly-d]

Thanks James. Was hoping it was something like that. I have a reel of tape coming in the post and Im very excited.