Vintage eight track players

        

    


NEW LISTING 10/6/
(click on above thumbnails to enlarge photos)
warranty
RESTORED / REFURBISHED / FULLY SERVICED  
VINTAGE PANASONIC 8-TRACK CARTRIDGE TAPE DECK
8-TRACK PLAY / RECORD DECK
MODEL PANASONIC RSUS
WITH LOCKING FAST FORWARD! & 'AUTO STOP'
  #
Circa
JAPAN
for sale

�Our technician has completely gone through and 'Certified' this unit.

� We have completely and extensively gone through the mechanicals and electronics of this unit.

�  Entire transport was disassembled down to the chassis, and every mechanical part was cleaned of "varnished" lubes and re-lubed as well as the always at issue, Pinch Roller plunge assembly, re-lubed and reassembled.

�  Lubed drive motor bushings

�Main drive belt has been replaced with NEW for trouble free service.

�All 'track' indicators are LED's and working now.

�Capstan flywheel removed, cleaned, burnished and re-lubed prior to re-install. Entire transport and mechanism has been cleaned, re-lubed and de-magnetized.

�Track change 'pick-up / contacts' cleaned and burnished (although this should be a step in normal deck maintenance). Now deck changes tracks consistently.

�Program elevator mechanism and indicator contacts disassembled, cleaned / burnished and re-lubed for trouble-free program changes. All original program indicator lamps now work fine.

� Counter belt has been replaced with NEW for trouble free service.

�Heads have been cleaned and de-magnetized and are in great shape.

�Head azimuth & track cross-talk adjusted for optimum performance and the best high-frequency response (not normally expected from 8-track cartridge performance) utilizing RCA # and 8TSC, Aspen 'Deck Tester' and Audio-Tex Test / Alignment tapes, a dual trace Oscilloscope and frequency counter.

�Track alignment adjusted to eliminate 'cross-talk' between tracks and to ensure the best high-frequency response (not normally expected from 8-track cartridge performance)utilizing RCA # and 8TSC, Aspen 'Deck Tester' and Audio-Tex Test / Alignment tapes, a dual trace Oscilloscope and frequency counter as well as our 'best' pre-recorded tapes.  Deck now has clear sounding highs even when using pre-recorded tapes.

�Record signal path contacts cleaned and burnished for static-free performance

�Linear Record switch cleaned so no 'Motor Boating' effect

�Internal playback, meter and record level pots also adjusted w/ O-scope.

�Speed initially measured at 98% accuracy. Following refurbishment, Speed checked with factory test tape to 99% accuracy! (meaning in this case, that our Hz test tape plays back @ Hz +/-1hZ on our Freq Counter Meter w/ RCA # tape)

�Deck 'sonically' checked for WoW and Flutter with no appreciable issues. As with most 8-Tracks, if you're listening to slow piano or strings, you'll probably detect some 'WoW'.

�Record Meters adjusted for 'even' readout and performance

�Floor noise tested to dBu

Since we also burnished the program track light contacts, they all light and are responsive. Unit works and sounds GREAT!
 _____________________________

This machine would be perfect for burning your 8-track collection to CD.  This is also a good deck for recording 8-Track tapes for your original 's thru early 's show car. Looks, works and sounds GREAT!
Total tech time in this deck+ hours.
_____________________________

Following the above extensive work, the deck now looks good and plays GREAT!
Great quality 8-track cartridge deck. As far as recording (we realize very few 8-track users will want to do this) it was acceptable. Depending on the tape types we try with different 8-track decks, we typically see to dB and this deck comes in at around dB. The great thing is that the Input Level controls become Output Level / Volume controls during playback so you can compensate for that.
This is a great deck for transferring a large amount of tapes to another media as it has two very important features. 'Locking' Fast Forward and 'Auto Stop'. These features are used to find the beginning of track one without going past the beginning of the next track. Trying to do a lot of transfers, as a business without those two features will cost a lot of time / money!

Panasonic RS Features include:
    
- Metal bracketed head mount (most have nylon / plastic which will have most certainly broken by now. Not really a "feature", but if you've worked on as many 8-track decks as we have, you grow to love these kinds of touches and they become more of a "Feature" than a button or option).
- LOCKING Fast Forward (very valuable, time / money saving feature if you have a 'media transfer business' or are transferring your own tapes to CD / computer files)
- Auto-Stop at the end of track #4 when in Playback or at the end of each track when in Record mode (again, a very valuable feature if you have a 'media transfer business' or are transferring your own tapes to CD / computer files) with EOT LED indicator
- Record Capable
- Tape counter graduated in Minutes and Seconds
- Stereo Playback & Recording
- Back-lit, analog VU level meters
- Separate L & R controls for Input / output level
- Dual 1/8" microphone inputs mounted on the front panel
- 1/4" Stereo Headphone jack
- Incorporated RCA patch cables

Panasonic RS Specifications:

Track system: 8-track, 2-channel stereo tape deck
Number of Heads:"3 in 1" head
Motor:DC Motor
Transport Control Type: Mechanical: Fast Forward, Play, Pause
Frequency Response:kHz
Signal / Noise:45dB
WoW & Flutter:% WRMS
Tape speed: cm/s (/4 ips)
Fast-Forward Wind Time: Double Play Speed / ips or ~ sec w/ ' tape
    
Again, have completely gone through it making ready for listening to your 8-Track tape collection or for burning your tape collection to another media. Also great deck for burning your 8-track collection to CD or for making 'NEW' / 'MODERN' 8-track tapes for your 'muscle car'. Looks good with only minor tics / dents (see photos above) and works GREAT! Includes our standard 90 day limited warranty. Measures " wide x " deep x " high and weighs 9 lbs unpacked.
PANASONIC RSUS 8-Track Tape Player
Cond.
$
 
 (Above text, in it's entirety, property of www.oaktreevintage.com / Oak Tree Enterprises, LLC. See 'Copyright Information' page for details)

 

          NEW LISTING 10/26/18
(Click on above thumbnails to enlarge photos)
warranty
RESTORED / REFURBISHED / FULLY SERVICED
VINTAGE PANASONIC 8-TRACK CARTRIDGE TAPE DECK
8-TRACK PLAY / RECORD DECK
PANASONIC RSUS 'BLACK FACE' VERSION
WITH FAST FORWARD! and
"AUTO STOP"
#
MIJ
for sale

�Our technician has completely gone through and 'Certified' this unit.

� We have completely and extensively gone through the mechanicals and electronics of this unit.

�  Entire transport was disassembled down to the chassis, and every mechanical part was cleaned of "varnished" lubes and re-lubed as well as the always at issue, Pinch Roller plunge assembly, re-lubed and reassembled.

�Main drive belt has been replaced with NEW for trouble free service.

�All 'track' indicators checked and bad bulbs replaced

�Capstan flywheel removed, cleaned, burnished and re-lubed prior to re-install. Entire transport and mechanism has been cleaned, re-lubed and de-magnetized.

�Track change 'pick-up / contacts' cleaned and burnished (although this should be a step in normal deck maintenance). Now deck changes tracks consistently.

�Program change mechanism and indicator contacts disassembled, cleaned / burnished and re-lubed for trouble-free program changes. All original program indicator lamps now work fine.

�Heads have been cleaned and de-magnetized and are in great shape.

�Head azimuth & track cross-talk adjusted for optimum performance and the best high-frequency response (not normally expected from 8-track cartridge performance) utilizing RCA # and 8TSC, Aspen 'Deck Tester' and Audio-Tex Test / Alignment tapes, a dual trace Oscilloscope and frequency counter.

�Track alignment adjusted to eliminate 'cross-talk' between tracks and to ensure the best high-frequency response (not normally expected from 8-track cartridge performance)utilizing RCA # and 8TSC, Aspen 'Deck Tester' and Audio-Tex Test / Alignment tapes, a dual trace Oscilloscope and frequency counter as well as our 'best' pre-recorded tapes.  Deck now has clear sounding highs even when using pre-recorded tapes.

  �Record signal path contacts cleaned and burnished for static-free performance

�Linear Record switch cleaned so no 'Motor Boating' effect

 �Internal playback, meter and record level pots also adjusted w/ O-scope.

�Speed initially measured at 95% accuracy. Following refurbishment, Speed checked with factory test tape to % accuracy! (meaning in this case, that our Hz test tape plays back at Hz +/-1hZ on our Freq Counter Meter w/ RCA # tape)

�Deck 'sonically' checked for WOW and Flutter with no appreciable issues

�Record Meters adjusted for 'even' readout and performance

�Floor noise tested to dBm

�New meter backing foam installed

Since we also burnished the program track light contacts, they all light and are responsive. Unit works and sounds GREAT!

 _____________________________
This machine would be perfect for burning your 8-track collection  to CD.  This is also a great deck for recording (one note on recording on it is to try and max the meters a the "L" and "R" characters on the meters, depending on the type of tape used. Meters even w/ factory test tone tape. Looks, works and sounds GREAT!
Total tech time in this deck 9+ hours.
_____________________________
  
Great quality 8-track cartridge play / record deck. This is a great deck for transferring a large amount of tapes to another media as it has two very important features. LOCKINGFAST FORWARD and AUTO-STOP. These features are used to find the beginning of track one without going past the beginning of the next track. Trying to do a lot of transfers, as a business without those two features, waiting on a tape to 'play through' will cost a lot of time / money!
 
 Panasonic RSUS Features include:
   
- Stereo Playback and Recording 
- Back-lit, analog VU level meters
- Separate L & R Input level controls
- LOCKING Fast Forward (very valuable, time / money saving feature if you have a 'media transfer business' or are transferring your own tapes to CD / computer files)
- Auto-Stop at the end of track #4 (again, very valuable feature if you have a 'media transfer business' or are transferring your own tapes to CD / computer files)
- Power assist Eject
- Single Track Repeat function
- 1/8" microphone inputs mounted on the front panel
- 1/4" Stereo Headphone jack
- Rear mounted RCA I/O's
   
Again, have completely gone through it making ready for playback for listening to or burning your collection, or for making "new" 8-track tapes for listening in your vintage or muscle car. All functions work great. Also, again a perfect deck for a 'media transfer' business as it has 'Locking FF' and 'Auto-Stop'.
Great for burning your tape collection to another media. Cosmetically the only issues are the typical wear to the 'silver' details on the front silk-screening on things. Looks good and works GREAT! Includes our standard 90 day limited warranty. Measures " wide x 10" deep x " high and weighs 11 lbs unpacked.
PANASONIC RSUS
Cond. 8+
$

(Above text, in it's entirety, property of www.oaktreevintage.com / Oak Tree Enterprises, LLC. See 'Copyright Information' page for details


 

         

NEW LISTING 10/6/
(click on above thumbnails to enlarge photos)
warranty
RESTORED / REFURBISHED / FULLY SERVICED  
VINTAGE REALISTIC 8-TRACK CARTRIDGE TAPE DECK
8-TRACK PLAY / RECORD DECK
MODEL REALISTIC TR / A
WITH LOCKING FAST FORWARD! & 'AUTO STOP'
Circa
JAPAN
for sale

Original observations; No playback due to 'melted belt'. Once belt was replaced, motor bushing had squeal. One VU meter was un-responsive. Speed not close to being accurate. Track crosstalk excessive. Intermittent track indicators. Wouldn't go to track 4. Excessive WoW. Missing bottom pads.

�Our technician has completely gone through and 'Certified' this unit.

� We have completely and extensively gone through the mechanicals and electronics of this unit.

� Entire transport was disassembled down to the chassis, and every mechanical part was cleaned of "varnished" lubes and re-lubed as well as the always at issue, Pinch Roller plunge assembly, re-lubed and reassembled.

� Lubed drive motor bushings as they were dry causing squeal / noise

�Main drive belt has been replaced with NEW for trouble free service (the original was melted. The first one we installed exhibited WoW. We then made a slight change in belt size and the WoW diminished).

�All 'track' indicators are working now following burnishing of elevator contacts (the originals are quite 'low current' so should be good into the future).

�Capstan flywheel removed, cleaned, burnished and re-lubed prior to re-install. Entire transport and mechanism has been cleaned, re-lubed and de-magnetized.

�Track change 'pick-up / contacts' cleaned and burnished (although this should be a step in normal deck maintenance). Now deck changes tracks consistently.

�Program elevator mechanism and indicator contacts disassembled, cleaned / burnished and re-lubed for trouble-free program changes. All original program indicator lamps now work fine.

�Heads have been cleaned and de-magnetized and are in great shape.

�Head azimuth & track cross-talk adjusted for optimum performance and the best high-frequency response (not normally expected from 8-track cartridge performance) utilizing RCA # and 8TSC, Aspen 'Deck Tester' and Audio-Tex Test / Alignment tapes, a dual trace Oscilloscope and frequency counter.

�Track alignment adjusted to eliminate 'cross-talk' between tracks and to ensure the best high-frequency response (not normally expected from 8-track cartridge performance)utilizing RCA # and 8TSC, Aspen 'Deck Tester' and Audio-Tex Test / Alignment tapes, a dual trace Oscilloscope and frequency counter as well as our 'best' pre-recorded tapes.  Deck now has clear sounding highs even when using pre-recorded tapes. (very difficult to identify which PC mounted, trim pots affected which circuits. We 'reverse engineered' the unit (as no service manual was available) and recorded them on the work sheet)

�Record signal path contacts cleaned and burnished for static-free performance

�Linear Record switch cleaned so no 'Motor Boating' effect

�Left channel meter was very low in response. We found two bad electrolytic capacitors; a 1uF / 50V  and a uF / 50V that were bad and both were replaced. Meter now functions correctly

�Internal playback, meter and record level pots also adjusted w/ O-scope.

�Speed checked with factory test tape to % accuracy! (meaning in this case, that our Hz test tape plays back @ Hz +/-1hZ on our Freq Counter Meter w/ RCA # tape)

�Deck 'sonically' checked for WoW and Flutter with no appreciable issues. As with most 8-Tracks, if you're listening to slow piano or strings, you'll probably detect some 'WoW'.

�Record Meters adjusted for 'even' readout and performance

Since we also burnished the program track light contacts, they all light and are responsive. Unit works and sounds GREAT!
 _____________________________

This machine would be perfect for burning your 8-track collection to CD.  This is also a good deck for recording 8-Track tapes for your original 's thru early 's show car. Looks, works and sounds GREAT!
Total tech time in this deck9 hours.
_____________________________

Following the above extensive work, the deck now looks and plays decently.
Decent quality 8-track cartridge deck for casual use. They high end is not quite on par with some of the higher-end decks, but if you're on a more limited budget and still desire a 'utilitarian' deck, or already have limited 'high-frequency hearing limits (and most of us do), then here you go. As far as recording (we realize very few 8-track users will want to do this) it was acceptable. Depending on the tape types we try with different 8-track decks, we typically see to dB and this deck comes in at around dB. The great thing is that the Input Level controls become Output Level / Volume controls during playback so you can help compensate for that.

Realistic TR Features include:

- LOCKING Fast Forward (very valuable, time / money saving feature if you have a 'media transfer business' or are transferring your own tapes to CD / computer files)
- Auto-Stop at the end of track #4 when in Playback or at the end of each track when in Record mode (again, a very valuable feature if you have a 'media transfer business' or are transferring your own tapes to CD / computer files)
- Record Capable (like many Realistic 8-tracks, the signal is 'muted' thru the outputs while in record mode)
- Stereo Playback & Recording
- Back-lit, analog VU level meters
- Separate L & R controls for Input
- Variable, Separate L & R controls for Output level (rear panel)
- 'Pause' feature (requires pressure as it's 'mechanical')
- Dual 1/4" microphone inputs mounted on the front panel
- Standard RCA I/O Jacks

Again, have completely gone through it making ready for listening to your 8-Track tape collection or for burning your tape collection to another media. Also great deck for listening to your 8-track collection or for making 'NEW' / 'MODERN' 8-track tapes for your 'muscle car'. Due to it's limited 'top end', I probably wouldn't suggest this deck for 'media transfer' use. Looks good with only minor tics / dents (see photos above) and works well. Includes our standard 90 day limited warranty. Measures 13" wide x 9" deep x " high and weighs 8 lbs unpacked.
Realistic TR 8-Track Tape Player
Cond.
$
 
 (Above text, in it's entirety, property of www.oaktreevintage.com / Oak Tree Enterprises, LLC. See 'Copyright Information' page for details)
 

 

 

Due to the age, conditions in which many 8-track tapes have been stored in and subjected to and the inherent quality shortcomings of the 8-track cartridge format (ie; case shape tolerances, and pressure pad designs), most tapes will not sound as good as most of today's modern formats and likely not as good as even their original, limited quality sound.

    

            NEW LISTING 10/24/18
(Click on above thumbnails to enlarge photos)
warranty
RESTORED / REFURBISHED / FULLY SERVICED
VINTAGE CHANNEL MASTER 8-TRACK
CHANNEL MASTER MODEL
8-TRACK PLAY / RECORD DECK
#
 Circa late 70's
SOLD 6/16/
SHIPPING TO PAUL IN ILLINOIS

�Our technician has completely gone through and 'Certified' this unit cleaning inside and out, cleaning out �gelled� lubes (a �MUST DO� on all pre-owned / vintage tape decks) and re-lubricating mechanism, investing over hours of tech time

�Heads have been cleaned and entire transport has been de-magnetized.

�Main drive belt has been replaced for trouble free service (after original had turned to 'goo' as many do).

�Internal, linear record switch flooded with cleaner to eliminate 'motor boating' and other common issues.

�Track indicator contacts burnished.

�All track indicators, while 'dim' function.

�Head elevator cleaned and re-lubed.

�Capstan bushing cleaned and re-lubed.

�Head azimuth & track cross-talk adjusted for optimum performance and the best high-frequency response (not normally expected from 8-track cartridge performance) utilizing RCA # and 8TSC, Aspen 'Deck Tester' and Audio-Tex Test / Alignment tapes, a dual trace Oscilloscope and frequency counter.

�Internal PB, REC and METER PC Pots cleaned and adjusted for 0dB with Oscilloscope.

�Floor noise measured @ dBm.

�Speed checked at % accuracy! (1k = Hz)

�Checked for 'WOW' and 'Flutter' by recording test tones and dynamic piano cuts. Piano even sounds fairly decent and that's a difficult thing to do with an 8-track 'cartridge' tape deck.

�Deck has clear sounding highs even when using pre-recorded tapes. 'Technician Note', "This is among the best sounding decks for playback we've restored".

�Looks good and other than the above mentioned tape counter, ALL works GREAT!
Total tech time in this deck + hours.
 _____________________________
 
Great quality 8-track cartridge play / record deck. We recorded from a CD onto a new 8-track cartridge and it sounded as good as a cassette and many Reel to Reels! Quality tape transport.
Great for making "new" 8-track tapes for listening in your vintage or muscle car. All functions work great.

CHANNEL MASTER FEATURES:
 
- Dual,analog VU level meters
- Locking Fast Forward (x speed)
- Auto-Stop after end of each track or Continuous play. Invaluable when archiving large 8-track libraries. This feature coupled with a "Locking" Fast Forward are must haves for that use. Auto-Stop works on 'record' as well.
- Repeat & Pause Lock
- Front-mounted, separate Left and Right level controls the input recording signal. These also control the playback level to match audio level precisely to your playback equipment inputs
- Dual level 'Pad / Attenuator' switch for input signal located on rear panel
- Dual 1/8" microphone inputs mounted on the front panel
- 1/4"Headphone output mounted on the front panel
 
Again, unit looks and works great and is ready to use! (Tape cartridge shown in photos not included with deck).Includes our standard 90 day limited warranty. Measures " wide x 10" deep x " high and weighs 9 lbs unpacked. 
CHANNEL MASTER
Cond.
SOLD 6/16/
SHIPPING TO PAUL IN ILLINOIS

(Above text, in it's entirety, property of www.oaktreevintage.com / Oak Tree Enterprises, LLC. See 'Copyright Information' page for details)

 

 

 

     

NEW ADDITION 11/9/17
 (Click on above thumbnails to enlarge photos)
warranty
RESTORED / REFURBISHED / FULLY SERVICED
VINTAGE WARDS / AIRLINE8-TRACK CARTRIDGE TAPE DECK
WARDS GEN A
 WITH LOCKING FAST FORWARD!
#
Circa 's
SOLD 12/9/20
SHIPPING TO HUTSON IN TEXAS

�Our technician has completely gone through and 'Certified' this unit.

� We have completely and extensively gone through the mechanicals and electronics of this unit.

�  Entire transport was disassembled down to the chassis, and every mechanical part was cleaned of "varnished" lubes and re-lubed as well as the always at issue, Pinch Roller plunge assembly, re-lubed and reassembled.

�Main drive belt has been replacedwith NEW for trouble free service.

�Capstan flywheel removed, cleaned, burnished and re-lubed prior to re-install. Entire transport and mechanism has been cleaned, re-lubed and de-magnetized.

�Program change mechanism and indicator contacts cleaned / burnished and re-lubed for trouble-free program changes. All original program indicator LED'snow work fine.

�Nylon head mounting bracket 'proactively' epoxied as 8-track decks utilizing nylon to mount their heads will OFTEN break, rendering them completely useless. While this can usually be repaired, we epoxied this one as 'reinforcement' before it broke.

�Heads have been cleaned and de-magnetized and are in great shape.

�Head azimuth & track cross-talk adjusted for optimum performance and the best high-frequency response (not normally expected from 8-track cartridge performance) utilizing RCA # and 8TSC, Aspen 'Deck Tester' and Audio-Tex Test / Alignment tapes, a dual trace Oscilloscope and frequency counter.

�Track alignmentadjusted to eliminate 'cross-talk' between tracks and to ensure
the best high-frequency response (not normally expected from 8-track cartridge performance). Deck now has clear sounding highs even when using pre-recorded tapes.

  �Record signal path contacts cleaned and burnished for static-free performance.

�Linear Record switch cleaned so no 'Motor Boating' effect

 �Internal playback, meter and record level pots also adjusted w/ O-scope.

�Following refurbishment, Speed checked with factory test tape to 98+% accuracy! (meaning in this case, that our Hz test tape plays back at Hz on our Freq Counter Meter)

�Deck 'sonically' checked for WOW and Flutter with no appreciable issues

�Record Meters adjusted for 'even' readout and performance

�Floor noise tested to dB

Since we also burnished the program track light contacts, they all light and are responsive. Unit works and sounds GREAT!

 _____________________________

Records VERY well at -1dB w/ 1kHz test tone on NEW Normal Bias Tape. This machine would be perfect for burning your 8-track collection to CD. Tape speed tested to 98+% accuracy! Meters even w/ factory test tone tape. Cosmetically it looks great. We did add some 'matte' finish laminate, to the lower, front edges to cover some previously added holes for rack mounting (See above photos).
Total tech time in this deck 6+ hours.
Deck looks good with only minor scuffs, striations and works GREAT!

_____________________________
 
Great performing Wards, A 8-track. Great for listening to your tape collection, burning your tapes to another media or for making "new" 8-track tapes for listening in your vintage or muscle car.

WARDS GEN A FEATURES:
 
- Dual analog VU level meters
- Locking Fast Forward
- Auto Stop for 'Record' function (not playback)
- Locking Pause
- Front-mounted, separate Left and Right level controls the input recording signal
- "ALC" Automatic Level Control for recording.
- Front mounted, 1/4" stereo headphone jack
- Dual �" microphone inputs mounted on the front panel
 
WARDS GEN A SPECS:
Track system: 8-track, 2-channel stereo tape deck
Number of Heads: 2
Transport Control Type: Mechanical: Fast Forward, Play, Pause
Tape speed: cm/s (/4 ips)
Fast-Forward Wind Time: Double Play Speed / ips
 
Again, we have completely gone through this unit, refurbishing and then testing with great "sonic" results for an 8-track. This machine would be perfect for burning your 8-track collection to CD or computer and making new tapes for your show / muscle car. Again the only issue is the non-functioning "Auto-Stop". One unique feature of this deck as opposed to many 8-tracks is that it allows "Cueing" / monitoring of audio signal when in Fast Forward mode. Unit looks good with a few minor "battle scars" and sounds GREAT! (Tape cartridge shown in photos not included with deck)Includes our standard 90 day limited warranty. Measures 17" wide x " deep x 5" high and weighs 11 lbs unpacked. 
WARDS / AIRLINE GEN A
Cond.
SOLD 12/9/20
SHIPPING TO HUTSON IN TEXAS

(Above text, in it's entirety, property of www.oaktreevintage.com / Oak Tree Enterprises, LLC. See 'Copyright Information' page for details)

    

            NEW LISTING 10/25/18
(Click on above thumbnails to enlarge photos)
warranty
RESTORED / REFURBISHED / FULLY SERVICED
VINTAGE MAGNAVOX 8-TRACK TAPE DECK / PLAYER
MAGNAVOX TF
8-TRACK STEREO
PLAY TAPE DECK
#
MIJ
SOLD 7/1/
SHIPPING TO KEN IN WASHINGTON

�Our technician has completely gone through and 'Certified' this unit.

� We have completely and EXTENSIVELY gone through the mechanicals and electronics of this unit.

�  Entire transport was disassembled down to the chassis, and every mechanical part was cleaned of "varnished" lubes and re-lubed as well as the always at issue, Pinch Roller plunge assembly, re-lubed and reassembled.

�Main drive belt has been replacedwith NEW for trouble free service.

�Replaced bad track indicator lamps, and checked the balance for function

�Capstan flywheel removed, cleaned, burnished and re-lubed prior to re-install. Entire transport and mechanism has been cleaned, re-lubed and de-magnetized.

�Program change mechanism and indicator contacts cleaned / burnished and re-lubed for trouble-free program changes. All original program now lamps work fine.

�Replaced old, brittle, stiff RCA cables with fresh, new pair

�Heads have been cleaned and de-magnetized and are in great shape.

�Head azimuth & track cross-talk adjusted for optimum performance and the best high-frequency response (not normally expected from 8-track cartridge performance) utilizing RCA # and 8TSC, Aspen 'Deck Tester' and Audio-Tex Test / Alignment tapes, a dual trace Oscilloscope and frequency counter. (one of the two aspects of why it took so many hours of tech time)

�Track alignmentadjusted to eliminate 'cross-talk' between tracks and to ensure the best high-frequency response (not normally expected from 8-track cartridge performance). Deck now has clear sounding highs even when using pre-recorded tapes.(one of the two aspects of why it took so many hours of tech time)

�Speed checked afterward with factory test tape to % accuracy! (meaning in this case, that our Hz test tape plays back at Hz on our Freq Counter Meter)

�Floor noise tested @ mVAC

�Deck 'sonically' checked for WOW and Flutter with no appreciable issues

Since we also burnished the program track light contacts, they all light and are responsive. Unit works and sounds GREAT

This machine would be perfect for burning your 8-track collection to CD. Cosmetically decent, except for a couple of 'dings' on the top edge of the face plate. See above photos).
Total tech time in this deck 8!!! hours.

MAGNAVOX TFFEATURES:
 
- User adjustable 'track alignment' on bottom panel for tape cartridges that don't line up correctly (instead of inserting a book of matches under the tape like we used to always do)
- Power-assist Eject feature selectable for each track, or at the end of track 4
- REAL Walnut wood veneer cabinet
_____________________________

As stated above, we have completely gone through this unit, refurbishing and then testing. This machine would be great for burning your 'Stereo' 8-track collection to CD or computer. Sounds great!  Includes our standard 90 day limited warranty. Measures 11" wide x " deep x 4" high and weighs 9 lbs unpacked. 
MAGNAVOX TF
  Cond.

SOLD 7/1/
SHIPPING TO KEN IN WASHINGTON
 

(Above text, in it's entirety, property of www.oaktreevintage.com / Oak Tree Enterprises, LLC. See 'Copyright Information' page for details)

 

    



            NEW LISTING 10/25/18
(Click on above thumbnails to enlarge photos)
warranty
RESTORED / REFURBISHED / FULLY SERVICED
VINTAGE LAFAYETTE 8-TRACK TAPE DECK / PLAYER
LAFAYETTE RK
8-TRACK STEREO
PLAY TAPE DECK
#
MIJ
 for sale

�Our technician has completely gone through and 'Certified' this unit.

� We have completely and extensively gone through the mechanicals and electronics of this unit.

�  Entire transport was disassembled down to the chassis, and every mechanical part was cleaned of "varnished" lubes and re-lubed as well as the always at issue, Pinch Roller plunge assembly, re-lubed and reassembled.

�Main drive belt has been replacedwith NEW for trouble free service.

�Replaced bad track indicator lamps, and checked the balance for function

�Capstan flywheel removed, cleaned, burnished and re-lubed prior to re-install. Entire transport and mechanism has been cleaned, re-lubed and de-magnetized.

�Program change mechanism and indicator contacts cleaned / burnished and re-lubed for trouble-free program changes. All original program now lamps work fine.

�Heads have been cleaned and de-magnetized and are in great shape.

�Head azimuth & track cross-talk adjusted for optimum performance and the best high-frequency response (not normally expected from 8-track cartridge performance) utilizing RCA # and 8TSC, Aspen 'Deck Tester' and Audio-Tex Test / Alignment tapes, a dual trace Oscilloscope and frequency counter.

�Track alignmentadjusted to eliminate 'cross-talk' between tracks and to ensure the best high-frequency response (not normally expected from 8-track cartridge performance). Deck now has clear sounding highs even when using pre-recorded tapes.

�Speed checked afterward with factory test tape to % accuracy! (meaning in this case, that our Hz test tape plays back at Hz on our Freq Counter Meter)

�Floor noise tested to dB

�Deck 'sonically' checked for WOW and Flutter with no appreciable issues

Since we also burnished the program track light contacts, they all light and are responsive. Unit works and sounds GREAT

This machine would be perfect for burning your 8-track collection to CD. Cosmetically decent, except for a couple of 'dings' on the top edge of the face plate. See above photos).
Total tech time in this deck + hours.
_____________________________

This is a 'players' unit, and not going to win any beauty contests. It's got a few scratches on the top of the case, and numerous dings / dents around the edge of the front bezel (see lower, right photos above). You're paying for it's performance following the above tech time, not it's attractiveness (or lack there-of). It's for 'use'n' not 'look'n' at.

As stated above, we have completely gone through this unit, refurbishing and then testing with amazing results for an 8-track. This machine would be perfect for burning your 'Stereo' 8-track collection to CD or computer. Sounds great!  Includes our standard 90 day limited warranty. Measures 9" wide x 10" deep x 4" high and weighs 10 lbs unpacked. 
LAFAYETTE RK
  Cond. 7 (due to scratches / dings)
$
HOLD FOR JOHN IN TX
9/24/20
 

(Above text, in it's entirety, property of www.oaktreevintage.com / Oak Tree Enterprises, LLC. See 'Copyright Information' page for details)

 

    

              NEW LISTING 10/25/18
(Click on above thumbnails to enlarge photos)
warranty
RESTORED / REFURBISHED / FULLY SERVICED
VINTAGE MASTERWORK STEREO / QUADRAPHONIC 8-TRACK TAPE DECK / PLAYER
MASTERWORK QUAD
8-TRACK STEREO / QUADRAPHONIC
PLAY TAPE DECK
#
MIJ
SOLD 8/31/20
SHIPPING TO CHRISTINE IN NJ


�Our technician has completely gone through and 'Certified' this unit.

� We have completely and EXTENSIVELY gone through the mechanicals and electronics of this unit.

�  Entire transport was disassembled down to the chassis, and every mechanical part was cleaned of "varnished" lubes and re-lubed as well as the always at issue, Pinch Roller plunge assembly, re-lubed and reassembled.

�Main drive belt has been replacedwith NEW for trouble free service.

�Replaced bad track indicator lamps, and checked the balance for function

�Capstan flywheel removed, cleaned, burnished and re-lubed prior to re-install. Entire transport and mechanism has been cleaned, re-lubed and de-magnetized.

�Program change mechanism and indicator contacts cleaned / burnished and re-lubed for trouble-free program changes. All original program now lamps work fine.

�Heads have been cleaned and de-magnetized and are in great shape.

�Head azimuth & track cross-talk adjusted for optimum performance and the best high-frequency response (not normally expected from 8-track cartridge performance) utilizing RCA # and 8TSC, Aspen 'Deck Tester' and Audio-Tex Test / Alignment tapes, a dual trace Oscilloscope and frequency counter.

�Track alignmentadjusted to eliminate 'cross-talk' between tracks and to ensure the best high-frequency response (not normally expected from 8-track cartridge performance). Deck now has clear sounding highs even when using pre-recorded tapes.

�Speed checked afterward with factory test tape to % accuracy! (meaning in this case, that our Hz test tape plays back at Hz on our Freq Counter Meter)

�Floor noise tested to dBm

�Deck 'sonically' checked for WOW and Flutter with no appreciable issues

Since we also burnished the program track light contacts, they all light and are responsive. Unit works and sounds GREAT

This machine would be perfect for burning your 8-track collection to CD. Cosmetically decent, except for a couple of 'dings' on the top edge of the face plate. See above photos).
Total tech time in this deck hours.

MASTERWORK FEATURES:
 
- Plays either normal 'Stereo' tape cartridges as well as 'Quadraphonic / 4-Channel' tapes
- User adjustable 'track alignment' on bottom panel for tape cartridges that don't line up correctly (instead of inserting a book of matches under the tape like we used to always do)
- Variable output level control located on rear panel
- RCA outputs for Front and Rear channels
_____________________________

As stated above, we have completely gone through this unit, refurbishing and then testing. This machine would be great for burning your 'Stereo' 8-track collection to CD or computer or for playing your 'Quad' tapes for Old School Surround Sound. This deck is one of the BEST sounding decks we've done in a long time. Reproduces way more 'top end' than most 8-track decks we finish, and also has a VERY strong output amp which vastly improves signal to noise ratio. Bottom line is, "IT SOUNDS GREAT!" Cosmetically looks decent with typical, minor scratches and 'insertion' wear to the tape door sides.
Includes our standard 90 day limited warranty. Measures 8" wide x " deep x 5" high and weighs 6 lbs unpacked. 
MASTERWORK QUADRAPHONIC / STEREO 8-TRACK DECK
Cond. 8
SOLD 8/31/20
SHIPPING TO CHRISTINE IN NJ
 

(Above text, in it's entirety, property of www.oaktreevintage.com / Oak Tree Enterprises, LLC. See 'Copyright Information' page for details)

-

     

           NEW LISTING 10/25/18
(Click on above thumbnails to enlarge photos)
warranty
RESTORED / REFURBISHED / FULLY SERVICED
VINTAGE PANASONIC 8-TRACK CARTRIDGE TAPE DECK
8-TRACK PLAY / *RECORD DECK
PANASONIC RSUS SILVER
'VERY RARE IN SILVER-FACE' VERSION
WITH FAST FORWARD! and
"AUTO STOP"
#
MIJ
SOLD 11/15/20
SHIPPING TO DENNY IN WISCONSIN

�Our technician has completely gone through and 'Certified' this unit.

� We have completely and extensively gone through the mechanicals and electronics of this unit.

�  Entire transport was disassembled down to the chassis, and every mechanical part was cleaned of "varnished" lubes and re-lubed as well as the always at issue, Pinch Roller plunge assembly, re-lubed and reassembled.

�Main drive belt has been replaced with NEW for trouble free service.

�Replaced bad track indicator lamps, and checked the balance for function

�Capstan flywheel removed, cleaned, burnished and re-lubed prior to re-install. Entire transport and mechanism has been cleaned, re-lubed and de-magnetized.

�Program change mechanism and indicator contacts cleaned / burnished and re-lubed for trouble-free program changes. All original program indicator lamps now work fine.

�Heads have been cleaned and de-magnetized and are in great shape.

�Head azimuth & track cross-talk adjusted for optimum performance and the best high-frequency response (not normally expected from 8-track cartridge performance) utilizing RCA # and 8TSC, Aspen 'Deck Tester' and Audio-Tex Test / Alignment tapes, a dual trace Oscilloscope and frequency counter.

�Track alignment adjusted to eliminate 'cross-talk' between tracks and to ensure the best high-frequency response (not normally expected from 8-track cartridge performance)utilizing RCA # and 8TSC, Aspen 'Deck Tester' and Audio-Tex Test / Alignment tapes, a dual trace Oscilloscope and frequency counter as well as our 'best' pre-recorded tapes.  Deck now has clear sounding highs even when using pre-recorded tapes.

  �Record signal path contacts cleaned and burnished for static-free performance

�Linear Record switch cleaned so no 'Motor Boating' effect

 �Internal playback, meter and record level pots also adjusted w/ O-scope.

�Speed initially measured at 95% accuracy. Following refurbishment, Speed checked with factory test tape to % accuracy! (meaning in this case, that our Hz test tape plays back at Hz on our Freq Counter Meter)

�Deck 'sonically' checked for WOW and Flutter with no appreciable issues

�Record Meters adjusted for 'even' readout and performance

�Floor noise tested @ mVAC

Since we also burnished the program track light contacts, they all light and are responsive. Unit works and sounds GREAT!

 _____________________________
This machine would be perfect for burning your 8-track collection  to CD.*While it does record, it's a much better deck for 'Playback' as there's 'WoW' introduced in the recording process, that does not show up with 'Playback'. Meters even w/ factory test tone tape.Deck looks great with only minor scuffs, striations mostly around the 'Headphones' jack. Works and sounds GREAT!
Total tech time in this deck + hours.

_____________________________
  
Great quality 8-track cartridge play / record deck. This is a great deck for transferring a large amount of tapes to another media as it has two very important features. LOCKINGFAST FORWARD and AUTO-STOP. These features are used to find the beginning of track one without going past the beginning of the next track. Trying to do a lot of transfers, as a business without those two features, waiting on a tape to 'play through' will cost a lot of time / money!
 
   Panasonic RSUS Features include:
   
- Stereo Playback and *Recording 
- Back-lit, analog VU level meters
- Separate L & R Input level controls
- LOCKING Fast Forward (very valuable, time / money saving feature if you have a 'media transfer business' or are transferring your own tapes to CD / computer files)
- Auto-Stop selectable for either 'current track selection' or at the end of track #4 (again, very valuable feature if you have a 'media transfer business' or are transferring your own tapes to CD / computer files)
- 'Pause' function
- Power assist Eject
- Single Track Repeat function
- 1/8" microphone inputs mounted on the front panel
- 1/4" Stereo Headphone jack
- Rear mounted RCA I/O's
   
Again, have completely gone through it making ready for playback for listening to or burning your collection. Also, again a perfect deck for a 'media transfer' business as it has 'Locking FF' and 'Auto-Stop'.
Great for burning your tape collection to another media. Looks good and works GREAT! Includes our standard 90 day limited warranty. Measures " wide x 10" deep x " high and weighs 11 lbs unpacked.
PANASONIC RS 'SILVER FACE' (most of them are black)
Cond.
SOLD 11/15/20
SHIPPING TO DENNY IN WISCONSIN

(Above text, in it's entirety, property of www.oaktreevintage.com / Oak Tree Enterprises, LLC. See 'Copyright Information' page for details

 

NEW LISTING 1/1/19
(Click on above thumbnails to enlarge photos)
warranty
VINTAGE PANASONIC STEREO RECEIVER / 8-TRACK TAPE
PANASONIC RA
AM/FM STEREO RECEIVER / 8-TRACK DECK

SOLD

  

** "(actual as measured)" refers to original test results done by Hirsch-Houck Laboratories upon test release of product when new. Current "aged" specifications / performance may of course vary from that.

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For other uses, see Cartridge (disambiguation).

This article is about the eight-track cartridge. For eight-track multitracking, see Multitrack recording.

Magnetic tape sound recording format

The 8-track tape (formally Stereo 8; commonly called eight-track cartridge, eight-track tape, and eight-track) is a magnetic-tape sound recording technology that was popular^[2] from the mids to the early s, when the compact cassette tape, which pre-dated the 8-track system, surpassed it in popularity for pre-recorded music.^[3][4] The format is obsolete and was relatively unknown outside the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, New Zealand, Australia, Mexico, Spain, France, Germany, Italy, Sweden and Japan.^[3][4][5] The main advantage of the 8-track tape cartridge was that it did not have to be "flipped over" to play other tracks.

The Stereo 8 Cartridge was created in by a consortium led by Bill Lear, of Lear Jet Corporation,^[6] along with Ampex, Ford Motor Company, General Motors, Motorola, and RCA Victor Records (RCA - Radio Corporation of America). It was a further development of the similar Stereo-Pak four-track cartridge, which had been introduced by pioneering businessman and engineer Earl "Madman" Muntz, who promoted and sold consumer electronics to the American public at the time. Lear had tried to create an endless-loop wire recorder in the s but gave up in , only to be re-inspired by Muntz's four-track design in Muntz's design had itself been adapted from the Fidelipac cartridge, which in turn had been developed by George Eash. A later quadraphonic version of the format, with four-channel sound, as opposed to earlier, more widely used stereo/two-channel sound, was announced by RCA in April and called first Quad-8 and later Q8.

History[edit]

The original format for magnetic tape sound reproduction was the reel-to-reel tape recorder, first available in the United States in the late s, but too expensive and bulky to be practical for amateur home use until well into the s. Loading a reel of tape onto the machine and threading it through the various guides and rollers proved daunting to some casual users — certainly, it was more difficult than putting an LP record on a record player and flicking a switch. Because, in the early years, each tape had to be dubbed from the master tape in real-time to maintain good sound quality, pre-recorded tapes were more expensive to manufacture, and costlier to buy, than vinyl records, which could be stamped far more quickly than their own playing time.

To eliminate the inconvenience of tape-threading, various manufacturers introduced cartridges that held the tape inside a metal or plastic housing, thereby eliminating handling. Most were intended only for low-fidelity voice recording in dictation machines. The first tape cartridge designed for general consumer use, including music reproduction, was the Sound Tape or Magazine Loading Tape Cartridge (RCA tape cartridge), introduced in Pre-recorded stereophonic music cartridges were available, and blank cartridges could be used to make recordings at home, but the format failed to gain popularity.

Development of tape cartridges[edit]

A blank 8-track cartridge.

Blank cartridges could be used to make recordings at home.

The endless loop tape cartridge was first designed in by Bernard Cousino around a single reel carrying a continuous loop of standard 1/4-inch, plastic, oxide-coated recording tape, running at &#;in (&#;cm) per second. Program starts and stops were signaled by a one-inch-long metal foil that activated the track-change sensor.

Inventor George Eash invented a design in , called the Fidelipac cartridge.^[7] The Eash cartridge was later licensed by manufacturers, notably the Collins Radio Company, which first introduced a cartridge system for broadcasting at the National Association of Broadcasters annual show. Fidelipac cartridges (nicknamed "carts" by DJs and radio engineers) were used by many radio stations for commercials, jingles, and other short items. Eash later formed the Fidelipac Corporation to manufacture and market tapes and recorders, as did several others, including Audio-Pak (Audio Devices Corp.).

There were several attempts to sell music systems for cars, beginning with the Chrysler Highway Hi-Fi of the late s, which used discs. However, entrepreneur, marketer and television set dealer, Earl "Madman" Muntz, of Los Angeles, California, saw a potential in the "broadcast carts" for an automobile music system. In , he introduced his Stereo-Pak four-track cartridge stereo system and tapes, mostly in California and Florida. The four tracks were divided into two "programs", typically corresponding to the two sides of an LP record, with each program comprising two tracks read simultaneously for stereo (two channel) sound playback. He licensed popular music albums from the major record companies and duplicated them on the four-track cartridges, or "CARtridges", as they were first advertised.

Introduction of Stereo 8[edit]

Lear Jet Stereo 8 advertisement, BillboardJuly 16,

The Lear Jet Stereo 8 cartridge was designed by Richard Kraus while working for the Lear Jet Corporation, under Bill Lear, in The major change was to incorporate a neoprene rubber and nylon pinch roller into the cartridge itself, rather than to make the pinch roller a part of the tape player, reducing mechanical complexity. Lear also eliminated some of the internal parts of the Eash cartridge, such as the tape-tensioning mechanism and an interlock that prevented tape slippage. By doubling the number of tracks from 4 to 8,^[8] the length of any recording doubled to 80 minutes.

In , Lear's aircraft company constructed demonstration Stereo 8 players for distribution to executives at RCA and the auto companies.

Commercial success[edit]

The popularity of both four-track and eight-track cartridges grew from the booming automobile industry.^[9] In September , the Ford Motor Company introduced factory-installed and dealer-installed eight-track tape players as an option on three of its models (the sporty Mustang, luxurious Thunderbird, and high-end Lincoln),^[10] and RCA Victor introduced Stereo-8 Cartridges from its RCA Victor and RCA Camden labels of recording artists catalogs.^[11] By the model year, all of Ford's vehicles offered this tape player upgrade option. Most of the initial factory installations were separate players from the radio (such as shown in the image), but dashboard mounted 8-track units were offered in combination with an AM radio, as well as with AM/FM receivers.^[12] Muntz, and a few other manufacturers, also offered 4/8 or "track" players that were capable of playing cartridges of either format, 4-track or 8-track. With the backing of the U.S. automakers, the eight-track format quickly won out over the four-track format, with Muntz abandoning it completely by late

The 8-track format gained steadily in popularity because of its convenience and portability. Home players were introduced in that allowed consumers to share tapes between their homes and portable systems. By the late s, the 8-track segment was the largest in the consumer electronics market and the popularity of 8-track systems for cars helped generate demand for home units.^[13] "Boombox" type portable players were also popular but eight-track player/recorders failed to gain wide popularity and few manufacturers offered them except for manufacturer Tandy Corporation (for its Radio Shack electronics stores). With the availability of cartridge systems for the home, consumers started thinking of eight-tracks as a viable alternative to 33 rpm album style vinyl records, not only as a convenience for the car. Also by the late s, prerecorded releases on the 8-track tape format began to arrive within a month of the vinyl release. The 8-track format became by far the most popular and offered the largest music library of all the tape systems.^[14] Eight-track players were fitted as standard equipment in most Rolls-Royce and Bentley cars of the period for sale in Great Britain and worldwide. Optional 8-track players were available in many cars and trucks through the early s.

Ampex, based in Elk Grove Village, Illinois, set up a European operation (Ampex Stereo Tapes) in London, England, in to promote 8-track product and musicassettes in Britain and Europe, but it struggled and folded in ^{[verification needed]} GRT Corporation, General Recorded Tape of Sunnyvale, California, was another large manufacturer which duplicated many tapes for smaller record labels; it went out of business in

Quadraphonic sound on eight-track cartridges was announced by RCA in April It employed four-channel receiver/amplifiers that balanced the sound via sliders or a joystick.

Ford was particularly eager to promote in-car quadraphonic players as a pricey option, being the only "Big Four" American automotive company to do so.^{[citation needed]} The format enjoyed moderate success in the early s but faded by mid-decade. Quadraphonic cartridges provided four channels of discrete sound, unlike matrixed formats such as SQ, which Columbia/CBS Records used for their quadraphonic sound vinyl records.^{[citation needed]}

Early karaoke machines[edit]

Daisuke Inoue invented the first karaoke machine in called the Juke^[15][16]

Nature and operation[edit]

An 8-track cartridge provides four pairs of stereo tracks, whereas the later quadraphonic cartridges had two sets of four tracks. The ends of the tape were spliced with a thin strip of metal that would trigger a solenoid that would cause the playback heads to automatically jump to the next set of channels. Both types of players also provided a button for manually changing channels. Due to the design of the endless loop tape, which fed from the reel in only one direction, there was no rewind control. Due to the mechanical stress on the tape, few machines offered a fast-forward control.

Quad 8 and Q8[edit]

The audio mixing process for four channel quadraphonic sound is different than for stereo versions of the same recording. Some producers opted for strong separation between channels and this was regularly used for popular music. Others chose a style in which there is only surround sound ambience or "echo" heard in the rear speakers. This type of sound, which can realistically reproduce a live concert hall experience, was commonly used for classical music. However, mixing engineers could also aim for more of a hybrid effect. In some situations sounds move in rotation around a three dimensional space. While rarely heard, the four channel effect can be quite spectacular. Quadraphonic recordings are often highly regarded and some quad 8-tracks have become highly collectible. Beginning in the s many four channel recordings were reissued on modern digital formats such as Super Audio CD.

Other use[edit]

Milton Bradley's (MB) OMNI Entertainment System was an electronic quiz machine game first released in , similar to Jeopardy! or later You Don't Know Jack video game series, using 8-track tapes for playback analog audio for questions, instructions and answers as well as digital signals in magnetic tape data storage on remaining tracks to load the right answer for counting the score. In , the Mego Corporation launched the 2-XL toy robot, which utilized the tracks for determining right from wrong answers.^[17] In , the Scottish company GR International released the Bandmaster Powerhouse, a drum machine that played back custom-made 8-track cartridges containing drum and percussion rhythms loops recorded with real instruments. These could be subjected to a degree of processing using the drum machine's controls, which included tempo and instrument balance.^[18]

Decline and demise[edit]

was the peak year for 8-track sales in the United States, with sales declining quite rapidly from then on.^[19] Eight-track players became less common in homes and vehicles in the late s. The compact cassette had arrived in ^[20] and, by the late s, the eight-track cartridges had greatly diminished in popularity. In some Latin American and European countries, the format was abandoned in the mids in favor of the smaller cassette tape, which was one-third the size.

In the U.S., eight-track cartridges were phased out of retail stores in late and early However, some titles were still available as eight-track tapes through Columbia House and RCA (BMG) Music Service Record Clubs until late Until , Radio Shack (Tandy Corporation) continued to sell blank eight-track cartridges and players for home recording use under its Realistic brand.^[21]

The professional broadcast cart format survived for more than another decade, being used for jingles, advertisements, station identifications, and limited music content at most local radio stations, before being replaced by computer-generated sound in the s. The format also continued in use for relatively short sound loops, in which a rapid start was more important than other criteria. The endless-loop tape concept continued to be used in newer cinema movie projectors, though their tape spool is actively rotated and not drawn by tension on the film. That technology is now being supplanted by digital cinema.

See also[edit]

References[edit]

External links[edit]

Heptode

Re: 8 Track players - worth owning?

I like the 8 Track myself.
It's a bit of Fun for sure, and they can sound surprisingly good
with the right Media and a Quality Player.

As Cobaltblue has alluded too, you will almost certainly have to
work on the Cartridges.
The Tape Pads will undoubtedly need replacing, and the Tape
Transport will probably need cleaning meaning the Cartridge
will need opening.

Opening a Cartridge without damaging the Shell or Label will
depend on what type of Shell is used.

If you just want to play some prerecorded Tapes, you might be
disappointed.

Although good Quality Recordings were made, most prerecorded
Tapes were dire in quality, which is a shame because Home recording
on good quality Cartridges and High end Recorders like an Akai for
example, can be extremely good.

They are not going to match the quality of a good Cassette Deck.
Not because the 8 Track system was bad, but simply because it didn't
have the decades of development the Cassette had.

If you want to play with the 8 Track, get a decent Player/Recorder.
I use an Akai CR 81D which is one of the better Machines.
There are better Machines, but a lot of cheap rubbish as well.

On a plus side, Cartridges are generally cheap, because nobody really
wants them.
The US is the best place to find 8 Track stuff, but expensive to
import into the Uk.



Ian

Re: What was the best 8 track player?

by dberman51 » May Mon 07, pm

One was about as good as any other. None were terribly good. There are a couple of fatal flaws in the 8-track concept: 1) the tape is an endless loop, and as the tape pack rotates each layer is forced to abrade against its adjacent layers wearing the tape out quickly in spite of its being lubricated, and 2) the pressure roller is part of the cartridge, not the player, and is supported only in plastic making it impossible to align to the capstan properly for long. So the result is that these cartridges were only good for a fairly small number of plays.

So if you have some 8-track cartridges you really like, it would be important to dub them onto cassette, open-reel tape, or digitize them.

The 8-track tape was derived from the Fidelipac broadcast tape cartridge (used also in the short-lived 4-track format). The broadcast cartridge shared the first flaw but not the second, as the pressure roller was part of the player mechanism. One of my duties at WBZ was to reload new tape into the broadcast cartridges when the tape wore out. We bought special lubricated tape, Scotch , made for the purpose.

8-track cartridges were developed for cars, to provide recorded music with minimum driver distraction, and were successful in this application. But extending them to hi-fi didn't go well, and they were soon superseded by cassettes.

-David