TASCAM MS-16

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$2,500.00 Price Tier: High-end

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Page last updated May 28, 2026

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$2,500.00 13 available Used

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Average Price: $2,500

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$499

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Price Tier

In the Analog category, TASCAM MS-16 is priced in the High-end/Boutique range. This premium gear is built to very high standards and offers premium features.

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Description

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Step back in time with the TASCAM MS-16, a quintessential piece of studio recording gear that continues to hold a special place in the hearts of analog enthusiasts. As a 16-track analog recorder, this machine is perfect for capturing the warmth and character that digital just can't replicate. Ideal for professional studios or home recording setups, the MS-16 offers a tactile and engaging recording experience.

Designed to cater to the needs of musicians and audio engineers alike, this multitrack recorder provides a unique blend of vintage appeal and reliable performance. The MS-16 features a robust build and straightforward controls, making it a steadfast choice for those who appreciate the artistry of analog recording. Whether you're looking to lay down tracks for a full band or experiment with complex layering, this recorder offers the flexibility and depth you need.

Key Features:

16-track analog recording capability
Integrated DBX Type I noise reduction for clean audio
Variable tape speed settings to suit different recording needs
User-friendly interface with accessible control layout
Compatible with a wide range of analog tape formats
Durable build quality designed for long-term studio use

Product specs

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

FAQs

How many tracks can the TASCAM MS-16 record simultaneously?: The TASCAM MS-16 is capable of recording up to 16 tracks simultaneously, making it ideal for capturing complex multitrack recordings in an analog format.
What tape width does the TASCAM MS-16 use?: The TASCAM MS-16 uses 1-inch tape, which provides high-quality analog recordings with a classic tape sound that many producers and engineers seek.
Is the TASCAM MS-16 suitable for professional studio use?: Yes, the TASCAM MS-16 is designed for professional studio environments, offering solid-state analog electronics and high-quality sound reproduction for serious recording projects.
Can the TASCAM MS-16 be integrated with modern digital recording setups?: While the TASCAM MS-16 is an analog device, it can be integrated into digital setups via analog-to-digital converters, allowing you to combine the warmth of tape with digital editing flexibility.
What maintenance does the TASCAM MS-16 require?: Regular maintenance for the TASCAM MS-16 includes cleaning the tape heads, checking the alignment, and ensuring the tape transport mechanism is functioning smoothly to maintain optimal recording quality.

Videos

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Shintaro Nakane

TASCAM MS-16

Shintaro Nakane

TASCAM MS-16 TRACKS

ReelX1

Recording On My Tascam MS-16 For The First Time In 25 Years

Freaking Out With Billy Hume

Lauren Passarelli ~ Tascam MS-16

Lauren Passarelli

I just got a piece of rock and roll history-Jay Bennett's TASCAM MS-16!

Ryan Downing

Tascam Reel to Reel MS16 16 channel Studio master Tape

Hifi Doctor

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Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about TASCAM MS-16.

Mods and upgrades

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Factory-modded models can run at 30ips but are revertible to 15ips by changing cap and resistor values on channel cards.
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Using +9 tape may require component modifications for high-bias recording when converting a 30ips machine to 15ips.
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Desoldering stations are essential for replacing the relays on double-sided PCBs; simple pumps or braids may damage tracks.
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Features and functionality

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A simple varispeed control can be added with a potentiometer/switch in line with the capstan motor DC supply voltage for pitch adjustments.
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Use cases and applications

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The 7.5/15ips speed switch mod is often for special effects or fine editing, despite affecting calibration.
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The ART VLA II Pro Tube Compressor is effectively used as a preamp, offering warm analog tones when positioned at the front of the recording chain.
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Setup and maintenance

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Owners recommend checking tape brake pads to ensure they fully disengage from drums, as partial contact can cause transport issues.
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A full recap and relay replacement can significantly reduce noise levels, but requires expertise due to the complexity and number of components involved.
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Sewing machine oil is suggested for lubricating moving parts, except for motors, to ensure smooth operation.
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Tentel-o-meters must be capable of measuring the high tape tension of the TASCAM MS-16; standard models may not suffice.
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Demagnetizing heads before using alignment tapes is crucial for accurate calibration.
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Isopropyl alcohol (90% or higher) can effectively clean tape heads when TASCAM brand cleaner isn't available, maintaining optimal playback quality.
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Ensure tape guides are secure to prevent vertical tape movement, which can cause audio to fade in and out during playback.
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User experience

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One user noted a single output sounding fuzzy, indicating potential issues with individual output jacks that may require checking or replacement.
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Front 242

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Per "Rock This Town" publication, special issue 1991:

In 1991, the setup was as follows: [Rock This Town special issue 1991]

Sound studio: Analog Synths: Roland System 100/100M/101 (+Roland Midi interface MPU-101);YAMAHA CS-40M (in the Take One video); Oberheim Matrix 1000; Digital Synths: Yamaha DX-7 (2); Ensonic VFX; Roland DDR30; Yamaha tg77; Korg Wavestation; Sequencer: Atari 1040 (Sequ. Cubase 2.0); Samplers: AkaiS9000 (2); AkaiS1000 (8Mg + Hard Drive Mfile 44); AkaiS1000PB (4Mg); Emulator II; akai 1100, e-mu Procussion, roland s-10 for live use @ the mixing desk; Effects: Lexicon 480L; Yamaha SPX90 II (2); Roland SRV-2000; Roland SDE-3000; Alesis Midiverb II; Alesis Quadraverb; ART DRX; spx 1000 (x2); Eventide h3000 se; Mixing: Table TAC Scorpion 32/16; Recorder TASCAM MS16 tracks; Recorder DAT Luxman; Speakers Yamaha NS 10M pro ATC SCM50; QUAD ampli (for NS-10M); Diverse: compressor/limiter, noise gate, parametric eq. Live: Backline: Akai S9000; Roland DDR30; Simons & Roland Pads; Emulator II; TASCAM238 8

Graphic Studio: Commodore Amiga 2500 (6Mg + Hard Drive 40Mg); Commodore Amiga 500; Digitizer SNAPSHOT; Camera Sony CCD V-200E; Laserprint NEC Silentwriter LC890; Monitor NEC Multisync 2A.