Good 2 track tape recorders to learn on?

[George Necola]

Originally Posted by Joe_caithness

In a mastering and mixing to (2 track) context. What are some good 2 track tape decks/makes/things to know/look out for.

I'm talking no more than 800 dollars or so, I've seen all sorts around that price, Otari, Tascam, few Ampex, Sony, but have no idea what any of these are actually going to sound like.

Looking to have a play essentially, maybe use on a few of my own and my friends projects with the aim of learning the format for clients of mine who might be interested in a "to tape" or "from tape" service, which there are quite a few in the hardcore/punk world in which half my business comes from.

thanks in advance!

Studer A80x. mastering grade machines if aligned and maintained right.

[Joe_caithness]

Checking out these Studer a62s, I mean they look well.. old I guess, but what are these things like? Too coloured by today's standards? Anyone modified/upgraded/brought into the future one of these bad boys? thanks!