Revox G36 Valve R2R? I very nearly bought one some years ago with the intention of sending it to Tim De Paravicini at EAR who could set them up and tweak them to an incredible level of performance. I once heard one at a show, driving his Quad 57s with built in valve power amps - possibly the most realistic sound I've ever heard - but I think the master tape we were listening to was recorded on the same machine...
Jem,
Nice though the G36 is, it's no patch on a more modern studio machine. The G36 was a high end consumer machine (even if people like Pete Townshend used them in the home studio in the 60s). Having had 2 x G36s including an original High Speed 15 IPS version, there is no way I would swap any of my current machines for a G36.
The G36 transport is antiquated and there is no library rewind for precious master tapes. The freq response is rolled off at the high end, and it's hard to calibrate, compared to a studio machine. The Sony APR 5000 machines are a dream to set up, with software driven calibration on a dropdown panel (no need to use a tweaker) and 3 tape calibration presets for each of 3 tape speeds. Every time I play a master tape or copy, I check the line up tones at the head of the tape to make sure that the repro freq levels and response mirror the same levels as on the machine which recorded the tape originally. The stock electronics on the APR 5000 machines sound great as well (better IMO than the Studers).
Charlie
I am considering selling my Technics RS1700 if of any interest. In excellent working and cosmetic condition. Comes with polycarbonate reel cover, original Technics spool reels and a very rare battery operated wireless remote control.
Sony APR5003 in full flow - click on link for video
<img src="https://i.vgy.me/hYJSfE.mp4" alt="hYJSfE.mp4">
Jem,
Nice though the G36 is, it's no patch on a more modern studio machine. The G36 was a high end consumer machine (even if people like Pete Townshend used them in the home studio in the 60s). Having had 2 x G36s including an original High Speed 15 IPS version, there is no way I would swap any of my current machines for a G36.
The G36 transport is antiquated and there is no library rewind for precious master tapes. The freq response is rolled off at the high end, and it's hard to calibrate, compared to a studio machine. The Sony APR 5000 machines are a dream to set up, with software driven calibration on a dropdown panel (no need to use a tweaker) and 3 tape calibration presets for each of 3 tape speeds. Every time I play a master tape or copy, I check the line up tones at the head of the tape to make sure that the repro freq levels and response mirror the same levels as on the machine which recorded the tape originally. The stock electronics on the APR 5000 machines sound great as well (better IMO than the Studers).
Charlie
Bet that sounds fantastic Charlie
Alan