So, I have this machine that's a 2 track 7.5-15 ips in stereo and it is working, at least on playback. What should I do with it?
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What to do with an Ampex ATR-700 2 track
- Thread starter ConchBoy66
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make some tapes ? Half track generally sounds better at the expense of play time. Can only record in one direction with that setup so a given tape length will give 1/2 the run time that a quarter track unit will. Will it play quarter track? Sometimes there will be a play option for both but you don't get that on record.
I will have to experiment with it some more. I’m not versed in this type of machine and I obviously don’t know what to make of it yet. It will play a tape that I created on a 4 track machine but only if the recording is on one side. I guess that would make that tape a 2 track then?
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ChristopherP
Active Member
ReeltoReelTech.com and Tapeheads.com as well as this site can help with that. ReeltoReelTech.com has some great get started advice.
If it doesn't have a relatively obvious switch marked for 2 track / 4 track it probably cant. It'll play 4 track stuff but you'll get the track going forward on top of the other track going backwards.
Check the head block for the optional 4th head, which would allow playback only, of 1/4 track tapes. Being the high speed version, it is somewhat unlikely, but check for sure.
If the 4th head is not there, then you are limited to 1/2 record and playback.
If the 4th head is not there, then you are limited to 1/2 record and playback.
So, I'm gonna do the obligatory cleaning, lubing of the capstan and pinch wheel and de-oxiting of the pots and switches. I also ordered a new counter belt. It sure looks to me that the magnet for the counter is held on with an O-ring. I might be able to sneak the new belt on without removing it.... Whatcha think guys?
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