It is indeed the Tascam 388, 1/4" 8 track reel-to-reel with an integrated mixer that I've been thinking about buying. Pyscho Monkey, what makes you want to avoid the 388 "like the plague?" I've spoken to many 388 owners and they are all very attached to these machines. I was a bit wary of the narrow format and slow tape speed (1/4" at 7.5 ips) but after hearing some stuff that was recorded on the 388, I was sold. Also, at around $500, a 388 in excellent condition seems to be a much more financially feasible solution for those on a budget.
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It is a kind of "mid-fi" vibe that sounds great to my ears.
I've also been entertaining the idea of going the route of the Tascam 38 or the Otari MX5050, both 1/2" 8 track machines. Can anyone recommend a good mixer (not too expensive) to pair with these?