Really?? Reel-2-Reel Real Audio
As a kid I was a geeky audiophile. No speakers were ever large enough. No amplifier had enough RMS watts. No preamp had enough signal to noise. I dreamt of those large reel to reel tape machines, but lived on an 8-track budget.
Fast forward to 2008 where “hi-fidelity” is a nostalgic concept and the world has no choice but endure the crappy sound of mp3s. Even the vanishing CD sounds bad – mixed for the optimization of the mp3.
I’m surprised that this mass lowering of audio expectations hasn’t generated a wealth of alternatives. Where are the audiophile entrepreneurs? Well here’s at least one: The Tape Project.
These guys use original masters to create copies on 15ips, 1/4″ half track stereo tape. The claim is that the sound is as close to being in the recording studio as you’ll ever get. Of course these don’t come cheap. Each “album” comes on two large reels for $200. Apparently the cost of the blank tape alone is $100.
You’ll also need a machine. A refurbished Ampex deck will run you at least $10,000. The audiophiles also recommend that you use tube amplifiers. Your cheap Chinese-built iPod is probably blushing with shame right about now.
Finally, don’t expect the latest Crazy Frog or Timbaland in the Tape Project catalog. There’s currently 10 offerings – mostly jazz and classical. Some great bets though include Bill Evans’ Waltz For Debby, Sonny Rollins’ Saxophone Colossus, and Robert Cray’s False Accusations.
All I need now is $10,600, and I’ll be able to write a music review!
Tags: The-Tape-Project, ATR, Reel-to-reel-tape, ipods, mp3-poor-quality
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