Pricing and availability
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Price
Average Price: $24
Budget/Beginner
$499
$1700+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 1 merchant for "TASCAM 38". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 3, 2026.
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Description
The TASCAM 38 is a classic piece of analog recording equipment that continues to captivate audio enthusiasts and professionals alike. Known for its rich sound and robust build, this 8-track reel-to-reel recorder offers a hands-on experience that many digital solutions can't replicate. Designed for musicians who appreciate the warmth and depth of analog recordings, the TASCAM 38 bridges the gap between modern studios and the golden age of recording.
This recorder features separate inputs and outputs for each track, giving you complete control over your recordings and mixes. Its analog tape transport system ensures smooth operation, while the VU meters provide precise level monitoring. The TASCAM 38 is a reliable choice for anyone looking to integrate authentic analog sound into their music production workflow.
Whether you're a seasoned professional or a budding enthusiast, the TASCAM 38 allows you to explore the nuances of analog recording with intuitive tape handling and an array of controls that inspire creativity and innovation.
Key Features:
- 8-track reel-to-reel analog recorder
- Separate inputs and outputs for each track
- Intuitive tape transport system
- Built-in VU meters for precise monitoring
- Compatible with standard 1/2-inch tape
- Durable construction for long-lasting performance
- Perfect for vintage sound enthusiasts and modern studios seeking analog depth
Product specs
| Brand | TASCAM |
| Model | 38 1/2" 8-Track Reel to Reel Tape Recorder |
| Finish | Black |
| Year | 1980s |
| Made In | Japan |
| Categories | Recording Gear |
| Electronics | Analog, Solid State |
| Number of Channels | 8 |
FAQs
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What tape speed does the TASCAM 38 support?
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The TASCAM 38 supports a tape speed of 15 inches per second (ips), providing high fidelity for recording and playback.
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How many channels does the TASCAM 38 offer for recording?
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The TASCAM 38 is an 8-track reel-to-reel tape recorder, allowing you to record and mix up to eight separate audio channels.
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Is the TASCAM 38 suitable for home studio use?
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Yes, the TASCAM 38 is well-suited for home studios, especially for those interested in analog recording, offering solid performance and vintage sound quality.
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What type of electronics does the TASCAM 38 use?
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The TASCAM 38 utilizes analog, solid-state electronics, which contribute to its characteristic warm sound and reliable performance.
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Can the TASCAM 38 be used for multi-tracking?
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Yes, the TASCAM 38 is specifically designed for multi-tracking, allowing users to record and layer multiple audio tracks on a single reel of tape.
Videos
Dv555
Recording With The Tascam 38 Reel To Reel Tape Recorder (Part A)
Recording With The Tascam 38 Reel To Reel Tape Recorder (Part A)
Dv555
Reel To Reel Tape Recording Breakdown with the Tascam 38! All Analog. Finishing The EP In Style!
Andy Pickering
Tascam 38 Reel to Reel Recorder Restoration (Part 1)
Dv555
Recording with the Tascam 38 Tape Recorder
Travis Raab Guitar
Tascam 38 Eight Track Reel to Reel.
marcusdolby1
Tascam 388 vs Tascam 38 Tape Recorders
Travis Raab Guitar
Tascam 38 Eight Track Reel to Reel.
marcusdolby1
Tascam 38 Professional Reel-to-Reel Recorder 8-channel 15ips 1/2" Pro Tape
Angel's Hobies - Music, Windsurfing and More
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about TASCAM 38.
Setup and maintenance
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Tracks 1 and 8 are prone to head wear, so it's advised to record sources with less high-end frequency on these tracks.
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Track 8 often requires thorough cleaning for adequate signal recording, despite reliable playback.
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Playback head generally offers better fidelity than the sync head; consider checking azimuth alignment for both heads.
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The 388 has a known issue with a logic chip affecting signal routing; while the chip is still available, it requires attention for maintenance.
Source
Use cases and applications
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For dub reggae production, routing audio interface inputs through an 8-bus mixer and patchbay allows for simultaneous analog and digital recording.
Source
Value and pricing
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Recent purchase prices for serviced units range around $1,450, including accessories like ATR tape and NAB flanges.
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Comparisons
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The TASCAM 38 can be pushed to saturate nicely with a sub/low bass bump and slight dip around 150Hz, giving tracks an enhanced sound quality.
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The heads on the TASCAM 38 are common to the TSR-8 and other 1/2" 8-track machines, offering more parts availability compared to the unique heads of the 388.
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Users suggest that vintage mixers, like the Teac/Tascam Model 3, have better recording features than modern mixers, which are often designed for live use.
Source
Features and functionality
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The 38 runs at 15 IPS, allowing for higher fidelity without noise reduction, while the 388, at 7.5 IPS, tends to be harsher with potential crosstalk issues.
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The 388's distinctive sound arises from its integrated mixer-deck design and 70s-era engineering, which lends a unique character difficult to replicate.
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It's noted that channel inserts on a mixer can be used as "direct outs" by plugging a cable halfway, allowing flexible routing to the tape machine.
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Vintage mixers are noted for their ability to switch channels between recording and monitoring, a feature often missing in modern live-focused mixers.
Source
Critic Reviews
4.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 5 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artist
This interview with Stu shows his Tascam 38 and states; "Nowadays he has a Tascam 38 eight-track reel-to-reel..."
''The (first two solo) records were totally limited, and there was no choice about what to use Then I got an 8-track (Tascam 38) and I had a choice between a couple of different mics.
In this interview with Marc Maron, at about 1:04:08 Kim says she had a studio back at her house and used a 1/2" 8-track by Tascam. In a different interview she had with StereoGum.com, she mentions the 8-track again.
"So I always had a studio, even when I was a teenager living at home. I had a Tascam 38 8-track. I would make my own cords and solder them. I’d buy a spool of cable and make my own cords. I had all these patches that I created and it got ridiculously complicated. I still kind of do that all the time."
In an Instagram video posted by Jay Watson (@jay.w.watson), he shows off a new track recorded on his TASCAM 38, providing evidence of his use of this analog multitrack recorder.
In this interview with Rookie magazine, Emily states: "[...] and the full-length, The Birds Outside Sang, was recorded on a Tascam 38, which is basically the same thing [as a Tascam 388] but it’s half-inch tape and doesn’t have a mixer attached to it."
The album's an unusual one enhanced by text relating the essence of Steve's experiences. Already another album is in the pipeline and the equipment used on 'Journeys' has been replaced by some of the latest in technology — a Yamaha DX7 and Roland JX-3P permanently MIDI-linked, a TEAC 38 8-track and mixer and a selection of wind instruments — minus the Lyricon which has been retired in favour of the more traditional expression of flute and sax.
In an Instagram post, Joshua Bright features the TASCAM 38, highlighting its role in his creative process alongside other gear.
In this image posted to her website, we can see Julie's Tascam 38.
Album Usage
The TASCAM 38 has been featured on the following albums:
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use TASCAM 38, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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