anybody still use analog?

[Aaron Selix]

Hello,

I'm considering a 1/2 inch 8 track or 1 inch 16 track.

I like the sound of analog, but am concerned about the baggage - tape costs,maintenance, repairs, normal wear and tear or heads, etc. Not to mention noise - even with DBX. Digital is easier to deal with - no question!

 

If I were to record 5-6 hours a week on an analog machine, how

much maintenance/cost should I expect on a yearly basis? Are

parts and good tech people hard to find?

 

Looking for advice from analog users!!

 

Aaron

[KenElevenShadows]

I have been using an Akai MG1214, which is not a r-t-r, but which is analogue. My service costs are probably in the $300 range. If you get analogue gear, eitiher learn how to do the alignment, etc. yourself, or make sure that there is a good, reliable service guy in your area. That said, even though I currently have Digi001/Pro Tools LE and have had SAW+ in the past, I still prefer the sound of analog, and primarily track on the Akai MG1214. And that's not even a *great* sounding analog tape unit...

 

I cannot answer the parts and service bit. If you live in a small town, then I am sure service may be a concern. Parts -- depends on the unit. The MG1214 was discontinued about eleven years ago, and i am still getting parts for it. For how much longer, i am not sure, but I will run this until i can no longer have it serviced.

 

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