Reel to Reel Tape Player / Recorder - Akai GX-4000D

I'm thinking about getting a reel to reel machine for that ole warm analog tape sound. I would imagine there are other ways to really warm up recordings but I've used reel to reel back in the 90's in pro studios and remember the sound being warm and sweet. I've heard that some of todays producers go to reel tapes to warm up the sound of their ill modern equipment... some names that i respect do so or have done so, Illmind, Geoff Barrow (Portishead).

Anyways, does anyone know anything about Akai's old reel to reel decks? I'm peeping an Akai GX-4000D. Some decks do 4 track recording and is said to be nearly CD quality from tape. Does anyone have any experience or advise about vintage Reel to Reel decks? I'm interested in your opinions about how to use... which to use... repair... etc.

They take some maintenance... especially over the years. I have an akai reel to reel machine. personally I prefer my teac machine, because it is a bit better. more features and better build... though I forget what models they are and they haven't gotten much use as of late.

if you are serious about getting some serious recording going on using a 1/4 track reel to reel machine for full songs then maybe you should also try and get a fostex or preferably a studer 8 track tape machine to record your parts and mix down during playback onto your ampex tape.


I just saw an 8 track fostex machine going for $150 on craigslist today. usually they go for much more than that. though be prepared because those tapes go for like 70 bucks a pop.