Analog ideas: MP3s on a Reel To Reel?

[Prince HiFi]

I have to confess I'm obsessed with analog hifi playback - records, turntables... Also, I'm one of those people who is resistant (irrationally?) to CDs and other digital playback media, as I love the phat analog sound. Only thing is, I'm missing out on the benefits of digital - computer edits, custom mp3 files through email, CD-only material, etc. So, I'm thinking of getting a reel-to-reel tape deck and dumping the digital-only stuff onto tape reels and hoping analog artifacts like tape-saturation make this stuff sound hot 'n phat instead of cold n' thin. And yes I will be hauling the reel-to-reel to my weekly gig (2 blocks away) and playing the rare stuff and edits from the reel.

Am I simply stuck in the past or does merging the digital and analog worlds an approach that has merit? Somehow, I'd rather go this way than get "Final Scratch" MP3 software.

Once I get the reel, I'll be asking around for "rare material" and edits. Time to check the buy-and-sell papers for a Pioneer 701 or 707.

Thoughts, opinions?

Prince HiFi


http://ebay2.ipixmedia.com/abc/M28/_EBAY_5fb3922f03233b3d2281f37a568c8637/i-1.JPG

[Jamie 3:26]

I used to lug my 701 out.I transferred the stuff from reel to cd.I actually loaned my reel out,thanks for the reminder,I need it back now.

I want to get an all Pioneer system.I want the classic Pioneer tape deck with pitch.I think it the 1000 something.I know the model when I see it.

There's a classic sound that comes from those componants that can not be reproduced.

[Prince HiFi]

You're thinking "He's crazy" re: lugging, but yes, it's that "classic sound" that I'm thinking about. Will look cool onstage, too (especially the Pioneer rigs). Only 2 blocks to the gig ;) .

HiFi

[SHEIK YERBOUTI]

Well a technique used on some albums was to record digital multitrack, mix through an analog desk, sometimes down to analog 2 track, then master to digital.

Now when you're talking about a heavily compressed format like mp3, it would be interesting to hear how it works out and if there's a difference in sound quality if you go to analog from mp3.

[ August 13, 2003, 04:36 PM: Message edited by: toomuchtv ]

[Prince HiFi]

Originally posted by toomuchtv:
Now when you're talking about a heavily compressed format like mp3, it would be interesting to hear how it works out and if there's a difference in sound quality if you go to analog. Yeah, hit the tape hard (hot recording levels) and hope tape saturation leaves it's appealing sound. There is actually a company that makes an effects box that simulates tape saturation for warming up digital computer sound files (mp3s).

HiFi

[djezmike]

Prince Hi-Fi what brand of Cassette Deck would you recommend. I feel you om that Analog Warmth. I have a Reel-Reel too. I prefer its sound too my Mini Disc recorder. Also Does Anyone now what kind of Tape deck Ron Hardy used to make his edits?

[Hippie]

If possible find a Technique Reel To Reel. I believe it might be the 1500 series. Those are the reels every major club from Garage to Zanzibar used. Also instead of MP3 try to get the CD mixes. MP3 is not going to give you neither the stereo spread nor the highs you can get from the CD. You can EQ the CD or run it through one of the many plug-ins that will fatten the track for you. Like I said MP3 will never come close to the spread or high end that you can get from the CD. I personally would go for the digital & analog combo ( CD & turntables ) that way you have the best of both and your not that far behind what will be coming down the pike of new formats. Peace Baby

[Prince HiFi]

Originally posted by djezmike:
Prince Hi-Fi what brand of Cassette Deck would you recommend. I feel you om that Analog Warmth. I have a Reel-Reel too. I prefer its sound too my Mini Disc recorder. Also Does Anyone now what kind of Tape deck Ron Hardy used to make his edits? Not that I'm the expert, but I would look for Nakamichi, Tascam, Pioneer, Technics brand cassette decks (should have pitch control to be truly worthwhile) because the first two companies made broadcast quality cassette decks and the second two had reputations at the high end of the consumer hifi market. The key is to buy a used top-of-the-line (TOTL) model from someone who used their equipment lightly but thinks cassettes are outmoded and the deck isn't worth much. Do your research on ebay and buy used locally.

I believe someone from Chicago once stated on the DHP that Ron Hardy used a Technics RT-1500, the same model Hippie is speaking of. Confirm?

Prince HiFi


Technics RT-1500 Reel to Reel

http://ebay2.ipixmedia.com/abc/M28/_EBAY_1b263c88082f3a30f6e4fe7a6950e681/i-2.JPG