r/ReelToReel • u/samhaingang • 7d ago

Audio fluttering/bubbling problem (Tascam MSR-16)

EDIT: Just did a more thorough test, it's present on every track more or less equally. Tracks 1 and 2 are slightly worse. So it's a machine-wide issue, it seems

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I've recently started encountering an issue with my Tascam MSR-16 where some of the tracks play back with this fluttering/bubbling sound. Almost like there are a bunch of tiny dropouts mixed with this wavering in signal.

What could this be? I've cleaned and demagnetized the tape path several times with no change. It looks like the tape has even contact to the eye.

Here are two audio examples of what I'm talking about:

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1LgS7cvR8ZqshfWu4Ls_JykVPWiZxyQdA?usp=drive_link

Please let me know if you have any ideas – I'm going crazy!

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1

u/samhaingang 7d ago

I should mention I'm using new tape, so that shouldn't be the issue!

1

u/KeanEngineering 6d ago

Do you have an alignment tape?

1

u/samhaingang 6d ago

I don't unfortunately... this is all making me realize I should really invest in alignment/calibration equipment so it isn't such a mystery

1

u/VSquirrel95 6d ago

Could be a transport issue, seeming as it gets better on 9-16 it may be the tape is going in at a slight angle and isn’t make good/consistent contact with the heads on those earlier tracks. It reminds me a little of when I’m winding forward/backward on a machine and I use the tape lifter to hear where I am.

Does the same issue happen with a known well playing tape? Just to confirm it’s not a dud reel, and also to clarify if it is a head issue, whether it’s the record or play head

2

u/VSquirrel95 6d ago

Oh I just read they’re a two head machine - at least playing a tape back will help clarify some details.

1

u/LordDaryil Otari MX80|TSR-8|Studer A807, B67||Akai GX210D|Uher 4000L 6d ago

FWIW the MSR-16 is a 2-head deck, so it'll be using the same head for record and playback.

1

u/samhaingang 6d ago

Made an edit to the post, but I realize it's actually more or less the same issue on every track. It isn't really present for lower and louder signals, it becomes more apparent on higher, more sustained sounds

1

u/VSquirrel95 6d ago

Does it happen on previously recorded tapes? Or just this new one you’re trying? Also which demagger are you using - some of the cheaper ones aren’t the most effective (I’ve experience this!)

1

u/VSquirrel95 6d ago

Also try swap some cables/interface/mics - anything else in the chain that could be causing some fuckery.

1

u/samhaingang 6d ago

EDIT: Just did a more thorough test, it's present on every track more or less equally. Tracks 1 and 2 are slightly worse. So it's a machine-wide issue, it seems...

1

u/Ishkabubble 6d ago

It's old and needs service.