Reel-to-Reel Tape recorder

[Purity]

Whilst I was clearing out my Dad's garage a while back I came across an old portable reel-to-reel tape recorder. It looks like it might be from the 60's and looks similar to this in a suitcase:

It would be great to get this working again. I have also found a number of reels that I suspect probably have conversations from family members that have long since gone.

Does anyone know about these things? Especially power requirements etc?

I was going to dig it out tonight and take a look at it, so will update with photos. Maybe I can find a manual?

 

[stevearcade]

Most would run on mains. I imagine it's got a two pin power lead and earths internally somehow. The issue with old tape machines in wow and flutter, which is essentially when the play speed isn't smooth and it sounds likes there constant vibrato. Imagine a single note that is constantly being wobbled between slightly sharp and slightly flat.

Some things to try are sowing machine oil on some of the motor mechanisms. Be very conservative with how much you use though. This might help. Other things are grime on the tape runners or even perished rubber runners. Using cotton buds and some sort of reasonably strong alcohol solution on the tape heads too. You can the rubbers, but not frequently as it can damage the rubber. Read here:

http://www.soundfirst.com/cleandemag.html

There are a couple places that service and get tape machines fully up and running like new, however you're looking at at least £200+ postage costs, so it ain't cheap!

If you're not planning on keeping it let me know.

 

[Purity]

I don't think I'll keep it tbh. I took it to just have a listen to what was on the tapes, and was just being nosey

Sounds right about the wiring. I do recall seeing two cables, so would assume it had a two pin power lead at some point.

I'll open it up before powering it on to see how it is wired

Purity2014-03-12 14:31:32

 

[Anthony Graham]

Usualy the biggest problem with these is pinch wheel rubber and belts have usually perished. The belts will either just snap or at least slip. Pinch wheel will probably stick to the tape and wrap it around itself of even pull off the oxide.

Belts are usually replaceable, possible to find them on ebay fairly easy. If not by the model of recorder (search in discription too as some sellers list 1 belt with several compatible decks) Alternatively measure the belt and again buy the correct length replacement.

Pinch wheels are available for popular units easy enough. Others are harder to find.

Try [size="-1"]VINTAGE WIRELESS COMPANY (Manchester) Ltd, 174 Cross Street,
Sale, Ches., M33 7AQ (0161-973 0438) Not to far from you so may be possible to take it to them for a look over.

If they don't have the parts required they will be able to point you in the right direction.

Ant
[/size]

Anthony Graham2014-03-12 15:49:09

 

[Purity]

Thanks for the info