While I'm not interested in rehashing the argument of digital versus analog recording. I would like any information or suggestions on how to get started with recording with tape, be it 1/8" or larger. I've just recently gotten into recording and am using what is within my means, which is modest. I would at some point like to invest in a 4track tape recorder but don't know where to start. I'd appreciate any suggestions and or resources for such information.

As of right now I'm working mainly with a few electric guitars, pedals, a shure 57, sennheiser e609, fender deville, 1967 fender bandmaster blackface, mbox (protools), and a G4.

Thanks

If you really do want to go the route of tape and are willing to start on a 4 track, you can pick up those Ampex A3340's pretty easily for not too much cash ($300?). They were made in the 70's and 80's and can record up to 15ips. That is how I started with multitrack recording and that unit taught me a lot about the basics of recording. It is very limited and forces you to make decisions early and to think out what you are doing beforehand. Also, it has rca ins and outs which make it really easy to patch into a home stereo setup for playback which helps before you invest in all the good stuff like monitors, nice preamps, etc. Also, the tape is still very available and comes on 7" reels for about $9 a reel as I remember. It is a good entry-level recorder, better than cassette 4 tracks in both use and sound quality in my opinion.

I'm recording material from just straight guitar+amp to heavily distorted guitar+drum machine. What other recorders would you recommend that provide more than 4tracks. I know I can bounce tracks to do more overdubs but would like the option of more tracks readily available. If there is a large learning curb, I assume your suggestion with the Ampex A3340 would be the way to go. Thanks

I've seen Otari MX5050s on ebay for around 400 to 500 dollars. This is an excellent machine (8 track). Really reliable, sounds great, durable being that there are alot of mistakes you'll learn not to make. By making them.

Chris

Thank you for the suggestions. I was wondering if there's any material that would be good to read up on. I'm sure it will take some time but it's definitely something I'd like to invest in. Thanks

welcome to the obsessed....read your tape op and other zines you will start to get fimilar with the bs and what is not.... also this book has been around for awhile ... the cover looks cheesey and it is .. but info is good from mic, analog recording to digital and everything in between... this will definately get you fimilar with terms and ideas....


http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/de ... 5?v=glance

here are a few good things I enjoy... Tape op it is free

http://www.tapeop.com/

and this book is good alot of good beginner info the cover is cheesey.. and by the way no pictures infornt of console if you can help it bad stuff... good intro to terms , mic and analog and digital recording....

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/de ... 5?v=glance

Yeah, you're right, the cover is freakin' cheesy. Thank you to all, for your help. I guess it's best to start here and wait till I have more questions. Unfortunately, when looking for the equipment stated above, I was unable to find them, but I will continue to look. Thanks again guys. If there's any additional stuff you'd like to drop in, I'm game.

Whatdya mean cheesy?? Should he be on a Harley? C'mon, this should be every beginners Bible and a reference for everyone else. Haha, he does have a Weird 'Ted Nugent' thing going on though... If I'm right doesn't he introduce himself as the weird looking guy on the cover? Haha, Great book anyhow.