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Average Price: $2,385

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Description

Step into the analog world with the TASCAM 85-16B 1" 16-Track Reel to Reel Tape Recorder, a classic yet highly functional piece of studio recording gear that caters to enthusiasts and professionals alike. Known for its 16-track recording capability, this unit brings a warm, vintage sound that digital systems often strive to replicate. The 85-16B is perfect for those who appreciate the nuances of analog tape and want to capture recordings with a rich, full-bodied character.

This tape recorder is recognized for its reliability and solid construction, making it a trusted choice for recording studios aiming to blend analog warmth with modern recording techniques. With its straightforward interface, users can focus on what's most important: the music. Whether you're laying down tracks for a new album or exploring the depths of analog soundscapes, the TASCAM 85-16B offers a tactile and satisfying recording experience.

The 85-16B is designed to accommodate a wide range of recording styles, thanks to its versatile track layout and high-quality components. Its ability to record multiple tracks simultaneously provides flexibility and control, making it a valuable asset for any recording project.

Key Features:

  • 16-track recording capability
  • 1" tape format for enhanced audio fidelity
  • Straightforward and user-friendly interface
  • High-quality components for reliable performance
  • Ideal for professional studios and analog enthusiasts alike

Product specs

Brand TASCAM
Model 85-16B 1" 16-Track Reel to Reel Tape Recorder
Year 1980s
Made In Japan
Categories Recording Gear
Electronics Analog, Solid State
Format Desktop Standalone
Number of Channels 16

FAQs

What type of tape does the TASCAM 85-16B 1" 16-Track Reel to Reel Tape Recorder use?

The TASCAM 85-16B uses 1-inch tape, which is standard for 16-track analog recording, providing high fidelity and warmth characteristic of analog sound.

How many channels does the TASCAM 85-16B support for recording?

The TASCAM 85-16B supports 16 channels, allowing for simultaneous multitrack recording, ideal for complex studio projects.

Is the TASCAM 85-16B suitable for modern studio environments?

While primarily a vintage piece, the TASCAM 85-16B offers classic analog warmth and can be integrated into modern studios with the right setup, though it requires maintenance and space.

What are the maintenance requirements for the TASCAM 85-16B?

Regular maintenance for the TASCAM 85-16B includes cleaning the tape heads, checking the alignment, and ensuring the mechanical parts are lubricated to maintain optimal performance.

Can the TASCAM 85-16B be used for professional studio recording?

Yes, the TASCAM 85-16B is designed for professional studio environments, offering high-quality analog recording suitable for a variety of music production needs.

Hush Angel

Hush Angel

Tascam 85-16B [16 Track Analog Tape Recorder]

Video thumbnail for Tascam 85-16B [16 Track Analog Tape Recorder] by Hush Angel

Tascam 85-16B [16 Track Analog Tape Recorder]

Hush Angel

Hush Angel

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about TASCAM 85-16B 1" 16-Track Reel to Reel Tape Recorder.

Setup and maintenance

  • The TASCAM 85-16B requires extensive routine maintenance, including tape head alignment, which demands unique expertise and specialized tools like test tapes and an oscilloscope.

    Source
  • Using a click track on one tape track can help align multiple passes in Pro Tools, minimizing timing drift without requiring SMPTE or additional sync hardware.

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  • Baking the tape for a few hours before transfer can improve playback consistency and reduce drift during digital conversion.

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Features and functionality

  • A common workaround for punch-in recording is disabling all inputs and using the track arm switch to avoid clicks.

    Source
  • Pro Tools can slave to a tape machine using timecode, adjusting its clock to match the varying tape speeds for better sync.

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  • It's possible to bounce high-fidelity digital recordings to tape as an intermediary step, achieving some tape characteristics without a full analog setup.

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Value and pricing

  • Tape for the TASCAM 85-16B is costly, averaging around $179 per 2500-foot reel, providing about 33 minutes of recording at 15 inches per second.

    Source

User experience

  • The 1" tape format offers a balance of sound quality and noise, with 1/2" tape having a 3dB noise increase, making 1" the professional standard for 16 tracks.

    Source
  • Recording with the TASCAM 85-16B provides a distinct tape sound, considered more lo-fi compared to 2" tape, yet still capturing the desired tape warmth.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The TASCAM 85-16B is considered a pro model, unlike the more prosumer Fostex B16, with 1" tapes being more reliable than 1/2" for professional audio quality.

    Source
  • Syncing multiple passes in Pro Tools without timecode can be challenging but is often manageable with short songs, as drift tends to increase over longer durations.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • To avoid phase issues, keep all multi-mic'd sources, like drums, in the same tape pass when transferring to digital.

    Source
  • Including a guide track with transients, like a snare, in each tape pass can aid manual alignment in Pro Tools by providing a clear reference point.

    Source
  • Recording to the TASCAM 85-16B requires musicians to play parts front to back without errors, as punching in can be challenging for busy sections.

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