Which tape and where to buy it for Fostex R8

[Snarl 12/8]

Hey People,

I just pulled the trigger on eBay on a "like new" Fostex R8, 1/4" reel to reel 8-track. Anyone know what the "bang for the buck" tape to use in that thing is? Even when I recorded for years on my old Model 80 I didn't know jack shit about formulations and biases, so I have no idea what to look for.

And where's the best place to get it? I have a couple reels of NOS Ampex 456 from the 90's. Still shrinkwrapped. But I'm not sure I should sully the tape path with that shit.

Assuming this thing arrives AND works, I'd like to know how to feed it.

Speaking of which. If a new 8-track arrived on your doorstep next week, how would you check it out for proper function? Just roll tape and if it sounds good it is good? That was my usual method. Surely there's got to be a few quick and easy ways to make sure calibration and bias and all that stuff is in the right ball park?

Thanks,

[frets70]

Congrats, its amazing how good those R8's sound on such a narrow format

Go here for tape:
http://atrtape.com/

Clean the heads with 90% (or better) Alcohol

I have a Service manual in PDF format if you need a copy PM me

the most common problem on the R8 is the reel pulleys coming off of the motor shafts, and capstan pulley coming off motor, the pulleys are plastic and crack over time--no replacements are available

I had this problem with mine, and used epoxy to put them back on-- might only be a temporary fix I don't know yet I haven't really stressed out the machine since I got it.

I just picked up an analog mixer so I will find out soon

[eh91311]

For the R8, you should use 1.0mil thick tape like RMGI LPR-35. Less wear on the tape heads and motor.

Try fullcompass.com and usrecordingmedia.com for tape sources as well. New tape prices continue to increase.

[steviejingles]

www.Splicit.comhas always been amazing to me.
They always have lots of RMGI LPR35 tape

[Snarl 12/8]

Thanks for the suggestions. I'll check 'em all out.

It still feels too good to be true. I don't think I'll be able to shell out $30(?!) for a roll of tape until the thing is sitting in my music room though.