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Average Price: $440

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$499

$1700+

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Description

The TASCAM 38 1/2" 8-Track Reel to Reel Tape Recorder is a genuine classic for audio professionals and vintage enthusiasts alike. This robust multitrack recorder excels in capturing rich, analog sound with eight independent tracks, offering exceptional clarity and depth. Ideal for both individual artists and studio environments, it allows for intricate layering and meticulous sound crafting. The TASCAM 38 is revered for its reliability and straightforward functionality, making it a mainstay in the world of analog recording.

Whether you're laying down the rhythm section or harmonizing complex vocal arrangements, this tape recorder serves as a steadfast partner in your musical journey. Its 1/2" tape format ensures that every nuance of your performance is preserved, providing the warmth and fidelity that digital formats often struggle to replicate. With a build quality that reflects TASCAM's commitment to durability, this recorder is designed to meet the rigorous demands of studio life while maintaining a user-friendly interface for effortless operation.

Key Features:

  • Eight independent tracks for comprehensive recording
  • 1/2" tape format for superior audio fidelity
  • Reliable performance with straightforward controls
  • Suitable for both studio professionals and home recording enthusiasts
  • Robust build quality for long-lasting durability
  • Perfect for capturing the warmth and depth of analog sound

Product specs

Brand TASCAM
Model 38 1/2" 8-Track Reel to Reel Tape Recorder
Year 1980s
Made In Japan
Categories Recording Gear
Electronics Analog, Solid State
Number of Channels 8

FAQs

What tape size does the TASCAM 38 1/2" 8-Track Reel to Reel Tape Recorder use?

The TASCAM 38 uses 1/2-inch tape, which provides a higher fidelity recording compared to narrower tape formats. This makes it suitable for professional-quality multitrack recording.

How many tracks can be recorded simultaneously on the TASCAM 38?

The TASCAM 38 allows for the simultaneous recording of up to 8 tracks, making it ideal for capturing complex arrangements or full band recordings.

Is the TASCAM 38 suitable for professional studio use?

Yes, the TASCAM 38 is designed for professional studio use, offering high-quality analog sound and robust build quality, making it a reliable choice for serious recording projects.

Does the TASCAM 38 require any specific maintenance?

Regular maintenance for the TASCAM 38 includes cleaning the tape heads and path, demagnetizing the heads, and ensuring the tape tension is properly adjusted to maintain optimal performance.

Can the TASCAM 38 be integrated with modern recording setups?

While primarily an analog device, the TASCAM 38 can be integrated into modern setups by using a compatible analog-to-digital converter, allowing you to transfer recordings to a digital audio workstation (DAW).

riopaso

riopaso

TASCAM 38 1/2-INCH 8-TRACK TAPE DECK

Video thumbnail for TASCAM 38 1/2-INCH 8-TRACK TAPE DECK by riopaso

TASCAM 38 1/2-INCH 8-TRACK TAPE DECK

riopaso

riopaso

Video thumbnail for Tascam 38 Eight Track Reel to Reel. by marcusdolby1

Tascam 38 Eight Track Reel to Reel.

marcusdolby1

marcusdolby1

Video thumbnail for Tascam 38 Professional Reel-to-Reel Recorder 8-channel 15ips 1/2" Pro Tape by Angel's Hobies - Music, Windsurfing and More

Tascam 38 Professional Reel-to-Reel Recorder 8-channel 15ips 1/2" Pro Tape

Angel's Hobies - Music, Windsurfing and More

Angel's Hobies - Music, Windsurfing and More

Reviews

PROS

  • Three-head design offers better control over recording and sound quality

  • Delivers wonderful sound quality when functioning properly

  • Reasonably priced option for an 8-track recorder from the 1980s-90s

  • Performs better with modern ATR or RTM tape compared to its original era

  • Well-suited for analog multitrack enthusiasts when set up correctly

CONS

  • Reliability issues due to close power and ground traces on the motherboard

  • Dust accumulation leads to sparking and random noise problems over time

  • Poor contact on multiple connections, difficult to troubleshoot and repair

  • Frequent and expensive repairs, especially with the braking system

  • Requires full overhaul before studio use in today's environment

  • Setup can be tedious and time-consuming to achieve optimal performance

  • Fragile construction, needing careful handling and positioning

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about TASCAM 38 1/2" 8-Track Reel to Reel Tape Recorder.

Features and functionality

  • The TSR-8 offers features like automatic punch-in and gentler tape handling, but its single audio head complicates calibration.

    Source
  • The 388 is described as a "giant portastudio," providing an integrated mixer-deck experience with less need for additional infrastructure, unlike the more modular 38.

    Source
  • The playback head often exhibits better fidelity than the sync head, leading some to mix and digitize from it.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • The 388 has reported issues with a specific logic chip that affects signal routing, though the chip is still available for replacements.

    Source
  • Users advise routing low high-end sources to tracks 1 and 8 due to outer tracks experiencing more head wear.

    Source
  • Using 1/4" tape on a TASCAM 38 requires replacing guides and tension arm rollers, risking head wear and tape wandering.

    Source
  • Aligning both the sync and playback heads can improve sound fidelity; an MRL tape and service manual are recommended.

    Source
  • It's important to regularly clean the tape path, especially tracks 7 and 8, for optimal signal recording.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The 38 is praised for achieving a pleasing tape saturation even when pushed hard, with a noticeable sub/low bass bump and a dip around 150hz.

    Source
  • Integrating a patchbay allows simultaneous analog and digital recording, ideal for hybrid workflows.

    Source

Build quality

  • The 388 is noted for having unique heads that are rare, whereas the 38 shares head compatibility with the TSR-8, offering easier access to replacement parts.

    Source
  • Some buttons on the TSR-8 are prone to becoming "floppy" due to a plastic tab that can snap, affecting their spring-back function.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The M308 mixer is essentially a standalone version of the 388's preamps and mixer, not the M30, providing a similar sonic experience in a separate unit.

    Source
  • The TASCAM 38, running at 15 IPS, offers a cleaner sound with less distortion than the 388, which operates at 7.5 IPS and can produce more crosstalk and distortion.

    Source
  • A 1/2" 8-track like the TASCAM 38 offers better track separation and less crosstalk compared to 1/4" machines, with more professional internals.

    Source

User experience

  • Users mention that 1/2" 8-track machines are superior for recording music due to track separation and reduced crosstalk.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Owners have paid between $1,200 and $1,450, often including extras like ATR tape reels and NAB flanges.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Tascam 38 Eight Track Tape Recorder (HSR Apr 84)

muzines.co.uk

The Tascam 38 is a robust 8-track tape recorder, perfect for those delving into semi-professional recording. Its sleek design complements any setup, though it's a beast to move at 56lbs without handles. While the machine skips unnecessary features like microphone inputs, a mixing desk is essential due to its input level requirements. The 38 shines with features like pitch control and a return-to-zero autolocator, yet caution is advised with the 'Edit' switch and cue lever to avoid tape mishaps and head wear. Internal feedback in Sync mode is rare but possible. Despite a mismatch in signal voltages requiring attenuators, the user praises its durability, claiming it's a top choice in its class even after rigorous use.

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