Bakin' tapes?

Circuit Scream · Post by **Circuit Scream** » Tue Sep 29, 2009 1:27 pm

I have 2 16-track 1/2 reels done on a Fostex G16s from about 1989. It's my first serious recording I ever did, and for nostalgic reasons would love to save it. (Sadly, I never mixed it since I moved a few states away right after recording, and just never got around to getting into a studio before everyone went to ADATs and DA88s.)

I've been told I should have these things baked and transferred. Anyone still do that?

Waltz Mastering · Post by **Waltz Mastering** » Tue Sep 29, 2009 2:11 pm

It's fairly easy to do yourself these days for the cost of a $85 SnackMaster food dehydrator.

Here's some info:

http://www.tangible-technology.com/tape/baking1.html

Circuit Scream · Post by **Circuit Scream** » Tue Sep 29, 2009 6:21 pm

Hey thanks Tom, that looks like it may be the solution. I'm getting fearless these days when it comes to DIY.

Whether it's the smart thing to do, time will tell!

Luckily I have taken great care in storing and moving these and my other reels over the years.

cgarges · Post by **cgarges** » Thu Oct 01, 2009 9:15 pm

Hey Donnie,

Are you sure that stuff needs to be baked? It seems like everyone always just assumes their old tapes need to be baked and that's not always the case.

Chris Garges
Charlotte, NC

Circuit Scream · Post by **Circuit Scream** » Fri Oct 02, 2009 6:25 am

Hey Chris,

no, I'm not entirely sure they need it. How to tell?

Waltz Mastering · Post by **Waltz Mastering** » Fri Oct 02, 2009 6:43 am

Clean and de-mag the machines tape path. Put on and play the tape in a non critical section of the tape. Watch to see if there is any noticeable drag or if anything is getting caught up.

After playing, pull the tape away and see if there is any tape, shedding, residue or oxide was left on the heads , pinch roller, or capstan. You can also check with tones etc to make sure things are coming back as they are/were recorded.

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Bakin' tapes?

Bakin' tapes?

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