R to R vs VCR!

[Elfasto]

I've used my Hitachi HiFi VHS recorder many times as a analog recorder with generally excellent results.

A few issues have come up, similar to what shstrang already mentioned:

1) A slight whirring noise can pop up in the background on the slower speeds, and it gets worse with the tracking control misaligned. I can negate most of it using a dbx noise reduction unit (in the closet right now), but it can still pop up. SP mode is quiet. EP is not so quiet.

2) Life of your recordings can be somewhat short, especially with recordings recorded in the slowest speed. Best to use the SP speed mode.

3) Like all analog recordings, tape quality is a factor, but I found it really affects your maximum recording level. The better the tape, the louder you can record. Speed can affect the level as well. SP is the best, EP is worst, but only slightly.

The best recording one can make is if one used a PCM converter modulated to the video track, and the analog HiFi tracks recorded simultaneously. Then you have the best of both worlds, IMHO.

 

[stereofisher]

Tried it too

Had good results and dropouts too. Have a nice RCA Hifi VCR that sits idle. Dont use it as I have R2R,cassettes and CDR to do recording with. The same reason why we dont use a Ipod. Got one and it works well enough but it competes with above plus FM,XM and cable here. Too many source and no time :tears:

Eric

 

[braxus]

The problem with most hifi decks are the components they use in them are hardly audiophile in quality. You may technically get a great sounding recording, but it may not move you like a tape deck might. I tried a couple tapes on my Hitachi vcr and it was fine, but I never considered it for serious use. Good thing too since the Hitachi has now died and needs repair.