Tape Machine FAQ

Q. What should I clean the pinch roller with & how often?

A. Only when it really needs it; if you see brown tape oxide on it, it's cleaning time. Use Isopropyl or rubbing alcohol - do NOT use denatured alcohol. Don't use other cleaners unless they are specifically recommended for cleaning pinch rollers. 

Q. What should I clean the heads & guides with?

A. There are a number of good suitable commercial head cleaners. Isopropyl alcohol - of at least 91% strength - will also do the job. Rubbing alcohol is NOT recommended; the high percentage of water present can actually rust heads (don't laugh - I've seen it happen).



Q. How often should I demagnetize the heads?

A. Many pro studios do it before each re-alignment. For the average user, once a month is probably more than enough.



Q. How can I tell if my multitrack's heads need re-lapping?

A. This is often indicated if the recorded output is reduced or unstable at high frequencies, especially on the "edge" tracks. Other clues are having to increase the high frequency record EQ control more than usual, and the inability to record a stable SMPTE code signal on track #24 of a 24 track machine.



Q. How often do heads normally need to be re-lapped?

A. Every 1 to 1.5 years if heavily used, 2 to 3 years for lighter use.



Q. How many laps can I get out of a new head stack?

A. 2 to 3 is typical.



Q. How can I minimize machine breakdowns?

A. Keep the machine & the area surrounding it clean & dust free. Install the deck in a well ventilated area with good air-conditioning, and make sure that there is at least 6" of clearance behind the machine. Occasionally vacuum out any dirty fans or fan filters on the machine's power supplies.



Q. I'm working on a tape from another studio - should I re-adjust the head azimuth on my multitrack?

A. This is not recommended, especially if your machine was previously set-up by a qualified tech (if you don't know what an oscilloscope is, don't even think about it). The phase error involved will be very small, anyway. Often, it is less than that created by console EQ during a mixdown.



Q. Should I leave my machine on all the time, or power it down when I'm not using it?

A. It's always preferable to leave the machine on. This keeps components in good shape & tends to make the electronics more stable. However, if you are only using the machine a couple of times a week or less, it's OK to shut it off when not in use. Under no circumstances should you leave a multitrack deck on in the summer without running an air conditioner.



Q. Speaking of power, do I need one of those power conditioners or a noise filter on the AC line that the deck is plugged into?

A. These are usually unecessary, as the deck has it's own power regulation and noise bypassing circuitry. If you are having trouble with power, make sure that you have sufficient voltage & current available, and that it is "clean" power (a good electrician can help you with this).



Q. Someone told me to cut off the third grounding pin on the AC plug to stop hum...should I do this?

A. This is not only stupid, but downright dangerous. If there is an internal short, a fire could occur in the machine - not to mention your possible demise from an unplanned electrocution!