It would be really fun if more real audiophiles became interested in tape playback. In the meantime, independent thinkers who seek the truth might want to know what's behind the trend to after-market tape stages.
Below are some of the better questions I've heard. Other questions for inclusion on this list are invited and welcome. If there is reader interest, we can then set out to answer them.
Is it true that the amplitude response of analog audio tape machines was the technology's biggest shortcoming?
Is it true that even the most prestigious and respected professional tape machine makers of the past (firms like AEG-Telefunken, Ampex and Studer) had audibly serious flaws in their tape playback electronics?
How does one verify the amplitude response of an analog tape machine's playback electronics?
Can the above verification be done by listening alone?
What makes the new outboard tape stages better?
Where, why and how did this trend get started?
Is it a scam?
What does a competent designer of any outboard tape stage need to know about the playback head that will be used?
Below are some of the better questions I've heard. Other questions for inclusion on this list are invited and welcome. If there is reader interest, we can then set out to answer them.
Is it true that the amplitude response of analog audio tape machines was the technology's biggest shortcoming?
Is it true that even the most prestigious and respected professional tape machine makers of the past (firms like AEG-Telefunken, Ampex and Studer) had audibly serious flaws in their tape playback electronics?
How does one verify the amplitude response of an analog tape machine's playback electronics?
Can the above verification be done by listening alone?
What makes the new outboard tape stages better?
Where, why and how did this trend get started?
Is it a scam?
What does a competent designer of any outboard tape stage need to know about the playback head that will be used?
Last edited: