Hi Mike,

It has been a while since we last spoke and at that time it was in regarding to reel to reel tape machines. We both were ATR and Studer guys. You had both and chose to sell your ATR machine. I also have both and will sell my Studer machines when the market will make it at least a break even situation.

We both have a viable investment in tape machines that can only be justified if the library of software makes it a worthwhile. Both machines require a good tech to keep them in tune and they are getting harder to find as the time passes. ATR is 4 hours from Richmond and parts are off the shelf. Should I need service they are a stone's throw away. Studer, not so much for me.

Not living close to service for a high tech machine will be the first reason to make a choice.

Your thoughts, and enjoy your new babies!

regards, ken

kftool May 25, 2013 00:11

Mike,

Beautiful, but have you thought about a larger barn?

Ken

kftool May 24, 2013 00:42

Gali,

There comes a time when those that seek the best hardware and software money can buy need to sit back and ask themselves: Am I willing to commit to the cost of TAPES that I'll play on a machine that will deliver all that the tape can deliver? Is that machine at the peak of it's performance?

Did I realize that master tapes, or copies, don't grow on trees and am I willing to pay the prices that are asked.

So, I have an 820 and know that it will deliver the best tape can deliver; did I buy it before I realized that great tapes are scarce and expensive? If so, why did I buy it if I wasn't willing to feed the beast?

The Tape Project offers material that they hope will attract members who are looking for the sound they can't get from any other format. They're looking for audio purists that will support their EXPENSIVE and RISKY venture to deliver to the Audiophiles that are always looking for the Holy Grail of sound.

Availability of master tapes is expensive. You get what you can from that which is available.

I generally pay $100 for a copy of a tape that is purported to be a master or a copy, 30 minutes at 15 ips and I supply a reel of ATR Master tape, plus shipping both ways. This is more than TTP charges and they have a pedigree on product and performance.

At times I'm disappointed with the transfers I get, but then I realize the options are slim to none. On the other hand, they're surprises that make the journey worthwhile. A 2nd generation copy of "Belafonte At Carniege Hall" knocked my socks off!

In my humble opinion, if you have an 820, either feed it or sell it to someone who will enjoy the songs it can sing!

regards, Ken

kftool January 28, 2010 03:23