u/Tech_nerd10

If anyone has ever wondered how to play a tape the „non boring” way, here is an easy tutorial on how to add some echo. 😆

Step 1: you need two reel to reel tape recorders

Step 2: position them in a specific way to ensure a safe transport of the tape from a machine to the other (make sure that the tape isn't rubbing on something that isn't supposed to)

Step 3: guide the tape carefully, put the supply reel on the supply gear of the first machine and the take-up reel on the take-up gear on the second machine.

Step 4: press/turn the play button/key at the same time on the both machines (if not, the tape will become stretched, or will snap)

Step 5: eNJoy 😁

I bought my Akai 4000ds in October 2025. Since then I used it a lot. I have put on it better quality tapes, old tapes. It has seen everything. But I don't know if I am just paranoid or my heads started to show wear. On the side of the coil traces where the tape isn't making contact it has some weird stuff that doesn't want to come off. I tried to clean off with isopropyl alcohol many times. And, of course, the traces where the tape is going, started to look a little faded (to me). Or Not.

I don't know if it's just me being paranoid or my heads really start to wear off slowly. I have taken these photos with my light in different angles. Sorry If the photos are shit. My phone camera is potato.