help--want to mix to tape for the first time

[balis]

When I bought my console (MCI JH636) the seller threw in a JH 110 1/4" tape machine. I'm about to mix down a number of tracks for a project I've been working for a while and figured why not give the tape machine a shot as the medium to record the final mixes to. I assume there are things I need to do (calibrate, clean heads or whatever) before I try and do this? So pardon my ignorance, but what are mandatory things I need to do before I get going? I know absolutely zilch about working with tape. Are there things I need to know when buying tape besides the reel size and making sure it's 1/4"? Always wanted to try this!

Thanks!

[Fletcher]

You need to know to call a tech to do a tape path alignment and an electronic alignment... then all you need to know is how to print tones and hit play and record.

If you want to get really cute then you'll need to know how to use an editing block and "head and tail" leader each mix.

[u b k]

if you're feeling brave, search google groups/rec.audio.pro, lots of good info to be found there.

there's a lot to it, and it can be quite confusing at first. at the very least, you'll need an mrl calibration tape, 250 nanowebers/meter is standard. it also helps to have a phase scope (the lissajous on spectrafoo works perfectly) so you can check your alignment.

if you're not feeling brave, do as the man says and hire a tech.


gregoire
del ubik

[pigpen]

tech... tech... tech...Watch and learn so you don't have to call him back. Ask if he's cool videoing him for future reference.