tape type for echo machines

[beatnik]

i am in the process of fixing up some tape echo units

obviously for restoring to the best performance i need to change the tape loops

i have been researching the web for the right tape to use

many say that the standard 1/4" mastering tape is too abrasive and it would damage the heads

they suggest to use a lubricated tape instead but of all the models recommended, i couldn't find any available

some other people suggest using tape out of 8-track cartridges as these were specifically made for endless-loop operation

i am really curious to hear some opinions from you

 

[radardoug]

Buy loops from the guy in Australia that does kits for the Roland stuff. Google it.

 

[beatnik]

thanks for your reply, i know echofix products,

i am not sure that one is some kind of space-tastic tape

i would really like to know what kind of tape should be used for this application so every time i will need a new loop i don't have to wait for 3-4 weeks delivery

hope someone can share some light

 

[fum]

you are looking for a lubricated tape, sometimes known as cart tape.

I bought a roll some years back for my space echo, after also purchasing some loops from an ebay seller.  Turns out the loops from the ebay seller didn't sound any better than 456 (I made a loop from 456, and they sounded the same)

The lubricated tape perfomed much better.  Better echoes, lower noise.

If I can find the box, I'll try and get a part number.

ju

 

[beatnik]

what about this one ?

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/SCOTCH-Magnetic-Tape-111-1200ft-1-4-tape-New-and-Sealed-/262408083149?hash=item3d18bd96cd:g:vQwAAOSwLVZV03O5

 

[Dumbascii]

I used to use Ampex 406 for this. 1.5 mil 260 nWb/m "normal" bias. Just guessing, but hotter tape like 456 or 499 might not erase as expected. After splicing a lot of spare loops, apply a barely visible bit of silicone oil (copier fuser oil) with a q-tip while the tape is running, otherwise the heads will constantly gunk and the tape will start to screech and break. Careful with that oil Eugene...

 

[ethervalve]

In my opinion, Scotch 111 would be quite bad for this application. It's a very old acetate tape (as opposed to polyester) is a bit on the brittle side.

I find common 8-track cartridge tape works quite well for the Roland Space Echo machines.  It's cheap enough that you can experiment with different brands (take note of the oxide colour). Very thin non-backcoated tape like 8-track stock can have better 'head wrap' than professional audio tape (like 456 etc) and give better high frequency response at low speeds.

I haven't been able to find an unused NAB cart/Fidelipac but I suspect they'd work well too.

What machine are you using?

 

[Whoops]

For Copicat replacement loops,
John beer from amp fix was using Zonal 675 tape,

http://www.amp-fix.com/copicat_spare_parts.htm