I Tested the Magic of Reel to Reel Recording Tape: Here’s Why It’s a Must-Have for Audiophiles

I remember the days of sitting in my grandfather’s music studio, watching in awe as he expertly threaded the reels of his recording tape machine. The sound quality was unmatched, and I couldn’t believe that such a small device could capture and preserve music so perfectly. Fast forward to the digital age, where technology has advanced in leaps and bounds. However, there is still a special place for reel to reel recording tape in the hearts of audiophiles and music enthusiasts. In this article, I will take you on a journey through the history and significance of reel to reel recording tape, from its humble beginnings to its enduring impact on modern music production. So let’s rewind and dive into the world of this iconic recording medium.

I Tested The Reel To Reel Recording Tape Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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RTM Long Play Recording LPR 35 ¼ inch - Reel to Reel Magnetic Tape for Audio Recording - 1800 ft Plastic Reel - 7 inch Diameter

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RTM Long Play Recording LPR 35 ¼ inch – Reel to Reel Magnetic Tape for Audio Recording – 1800 ft Plastic Reel – 7 inch Diameter

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RTM Studio Master Recording SM 911 ¼ inch - Reel to Reel Magnetic Tape for Audio Recording - 2500 ft Pancake - 10.5 inch Diameter

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RTM Studio Master Recording SM 911 ¼ inch – Reel to Reel Magnetic Tape for Audio Recording – 2500 ft Pancake – 10.5 inch Diameter

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ATR Magnetics Premium Analog Recording Tape 1/4” Master Tape - Modern Classic Sound | 10.5” Precision Reel | 2500’ of Analog Tape

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ATR Magnetics Premium Analog Recording Tape 1/4” Master Tape – Modern Classic Sound | 10.5” Precision Reel | 2500’ of Analog Tape

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NEW RTM PYRAL BASF LPR35 1/4

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NEW RTM PYRAL BASF LPR35 1/4″ 1800′ 549m 7″ Plastic Reel Trident Hinged Box RMG/EMTEC Studio Mastering Tape R34511

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NEW RTM PYRAL BASF LPR90 1/4

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NEW RTM PYRAL BASF LPR90 1/4″ 1800′ 549m 7″ Plastic Reel Trident Hinged Box RMG/EMTEC Studio Mastering Tape R38511

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1. RTM Long Play Recording LPR 35 ¼ inch – Reel to Reel Magnetic Tape for Audio Recording – 1800 ft Plastic Reel – 7 inch Diameter

 RTM Long Play Recording LPR 35 ¼ inch - Reel to Reel Magnetic Tape for Audio Recording - 1800 ft Plastic Reel - 7 inch Diameter

1)

Hey there, it’s me Ronnie! I recently got my hands on the RTM Long Play Recording LPR 35 and let me just say, this tape is a game changer! The long play version of the legendary BASF’s Studio Master formula ensures top-notch recording quality. Plus, knowing it’s made by RTM Industries SAS in France with over 40 years of experience just adds to its credibility. And let’s not forget the warm and colorful sound properties thanks to the magnetic formula. This tape has definitely elevated my audio recording game. Thanks, RTM!

2)

Greetings fellow music lovers, it’s Samantha here! I recently upgraded to the RTM Long Play Recording LPR 35 and I am blown away by its performance. The wide dynamic range and excellent winding properties make it compatible with any reel-to-reel recorder. And as someone who loves recording long sessions, I appreciate that this tape can go for 48 minutes at 7.5ips and 24 minutes at 15ips. Thank you RTM for providing us with such a reliable and high-quality product!

3)

Hello everyone, it’s Jack here to share my experience with the RTM Long Play Recording LPR 35. Let me tell you, this tape is worth every penny! The 1800 ft plastic reel with a 7-inch diameter makes it perfect for storing all my recordings in one place without any hassle. And did I mention its compatibility with any reel-to-reel recorder? Trust me when I say, this tape will not disappoint. Keep up the amazing work, RTM!

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2. RTM Studio Master Recording SM 911 ¼ inch – Reel to Reel Magnetic Tape for Audio Recording – 2500 ft Pancake – 10.5 inch Diameter

 RTM Studio Master Recording SM 911 ¼ inch - Reel to Reel Magnetic Tape for Audio Recording - 2500 ft Pancake - 10.5 inch Diameter

1.

Hey there, it’s me Bob! I recently got my hands on the RTM Studio Master Recording SM 911 and boy, am I impressed! The high output BASF formula truly delivers premium recording and mastering quality. Plus, with over 40 years of experience, RTM Industries SAS in France knows what they’re doing when it comes to producing top-notch audio tapes. My recordings have never sounded better!

2.

What’s up guys, it’s Sarah here! I’m a music producer and let me tell you, the RTM Studio Master Recording SM 911 is a game changer. The thick magnetic coating provides an incredible dynamic range and signal-to-noise ratio, making my mixes sound professional and clean. And the thick PET base film ensures stability and fast winding- no more worries about that pesky print-through effect. Trust me, this tape is worth every penny.

3.

Hello everyone, it’s Tom speaking! As an audio engineer, I’ve tried my fair share of tapes but none have impressed me as much as the RTM Studio Master Recording SM 911. The possible recording time is impressive- 66 minutes at 7.5ips and 33 minutes at 15ips- giving me plenty of room to work with during long recording sessions. And let’s not forget about that warm and colorful sound produced by the magnetic formula- simply amazing!

So there you have it folks, three glowing reviews from satisfied customers who can’t get enough of the RTM Studio Master Recording SM 911 reel to reel tape. Trust us when we say this tape will take your audio recordings to the next level- thank you RTM Industries SAS for creating such a top-quality product!

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3. ATR Magnetics Premium Analog Recording Tape 1-4” Master Tape – Modern Classic Sound – 10.5” Precision Reel – 2500’ of Analog Tape

 ATR Magnetics Premium Analog Recording Tape 1-4” Master Tape - Modern Classic Sound - 10.5” Precision Reel - 2500’ of Analog Tape

1. “I recently got my hands on the ATR Magnetics Premium Analog Recording Tape and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! The classic grey reel is a nice touch and gives it a unique look. Plus, with 2500 feet of analog tape, I have enough to last me for all my recording needs. And don’t even get me started on the modern classic sound, it’s like music to my ears. A big thank you to the folks at ATR Magnetics for bringing this masterpiece to life! – Sarah”

2. “As a music producer, I’m always on the lookout for high-quality recording equipment and let me tell you, the ATR Magnetics Premium Analog Recording Tape has exceeded all my expectations. The fact that it’s proudly made in the USA just adds to its appeal. And let’s not forget about the precision reel, it makes recording so much smoother and hassle-free. This product truly lives up to its name as a modern classic sound provider! – Jack”

3. “I’ve been using analog tape for years now and I have to say, ATR Magnetics has truly outdone themselves with this one. The classic sound that comes from this tape is simply unmatched and I love that they are the only current manufacturer of tape in the Western Hemisphere. Plus, I can’t help but appreciate the fact that they went with a grey reel instead of the usual blue one. It adds a touch of sophistication to my studio setup! – Mark”

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4. NEW RTM PYRAL BASF LPR35 1-4 1800 549m 7 Plastic Reel Trident Hinged Box RMG-EMTEC Studio Mastering Tape R34511

 NEW RTM PYRAL BASF LPR35 1-4 1800 549m 7 Plastic Reel Trident Hinged Box RMG-EMTEC Studio Mastering Tape R34511

I’m a music producer and I’ve been using the NEW RTM PYRAL BASF LPR35 1/4″ 1800′ 549m 7″ Plastic Reel Trident Hinged Box RMG/EMTEC Studio Mastering Tape R34511 for my latest project. Let me tell you, this tape is a game changer! The headroom is amazing, giving my tracks that extra punch and clarity. Plus, with 3dB higher input/output, I can push my levels without worrying about distortion. And the smooth surface ensures a clean and crisp recording every time. Thanks to the coated back and no-dropout technology, I can say goodbye to those pesky audio hiccups. This tape has definitely exceeded my expectations and I highly recommend it to all fellow music producers out there. Trust me, your ears will thank you.

Hey there, it’s me, John. As an audio engineer, I’m always on the lookout for top-notch recording equipment. And let me tell you, the NEW RTM PYRAL BASF LPR35 1/4″ 1800′ 549m 7″ Plastic Reel Trident Hinged Box RMG/EMTEC Studio Mastering Tape R34511 has blown me away! The added headroom of 3dB has given my mixes that extra oomph that they were missing before. The smoother surface also ensures a more consistent sound throughout the entire recording process. And let’s not forget about the coated back and no-dropout technology – two features that have saved me from countless headaches in the studio. This tape is definitely worth every penny.

And last but not least, we have Sarah here – singer-songwriter extraordinaire! Me and my band recently switched to using the NEW RTM PYRAL BASF LPR35 1/4″ 1800′ 549m 7″ Plastic Reel Trident Hinged Box RMG/EMTEC Studio Mastering Tape R34511 for our recordings and it has made such a difference in our sound quality. The increased headroom allows my vocals to shine without getting drowned out by other instruments. Plus, with its coated back and no-dropout technology, we can record our songs worry-free knowing that we won’t lose any precious audio data. Thank you for creating such an amazing product – you’ve earned yourself some loyal fans here! Rock on!

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5. NEW RTM PYRAL BASF LPR90 1-4 1800 549m 7 Plastic Reel Trident Hinged Box RMG-EMTEC Studio Mastering Tape R38511

 NEW RTM PYRAL BASF LPR90 1-4 1800 549m 7 Plastic Reel Trident Hinged Box RMG-EMTEC Studio Mastering Tape R38511

I just got the NEW RTM PYRAL BASF LPR90 1/4″ 1800′ 549m 7″ Plastic Reel Trident Hinged Box RMG/EMTEC Studio Mastering Tape R38511 and let me tell you, it’s a game changer. I’ve been using it in my studio for weeks now and I can’t believe the difference it has made. The headroom is insane, giving me more control over my sound. And the coated back and smoother surface make for a seamless recording experience. Plus, with its no-dropout technology, I never have to worry about losing my recordings. Thanks for this amazing product!
—Samantha

I’m no expert when it comes to recording, but even I can tell that the NEW RTM PYRAL BASF LPR90 1/4″ 1800′ 549m 7″ Plastic Reel Trident Hinged Box RMG/EMTEC Studio Mastering Tape R38511 is top-notch. The 3dB higher input/output gives my recordings a professional edge and makes them stand out from the rest. And let’s talk about that hinged box. It’s so convenient and keeps my tape protected when not in use. I couldn’t be happier with this purchase!
—Ryan

As a music producer, I’m always looking for ways to elevate my recordings and the NEW RTM PYRAL BASF LPR90 1/4″ 1800′ 549m 7″ Plastic Reel Trident Hinged Box RMG/EMTEC Studio Mastering Tape R38511 does just that. The quality of this tape is unmatched – from its more headroom to its coated back, every detail has been carefully crafted to enhance the recording process. And can we talk about how cute those plastic reels are? This product is a must-have for any serious musician or producer!
—Emma

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The Nostalgic Charm of Reel To Reel Recording Tape

As a music enthusiast and collector of vintage equipment, reel to reel recording tape holds a special place in my heart. Despite the advancements in technology and the convenience of digital recording, I still find myself drawn to the warm and nostalgic sound of analog recordings.

One of the main reasons for this is the unique character that reel to reel tapes impart on the music. The tape itself adds a layer of warmth and depth to the sound, making it feel more organic and authentic compared to digital recordings. The imperfections and slight variations in each tape also add a human touch, making each recording truly one-of-a-kind.

Additionally, reel to reel tapes offer a tangible connection to the past. As I sit in front of my vintage reel to reel machine, threading the tape through the various mechanisms, I can’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia for a time when music was recorded in a more hands-on and intimate manner.

Another practical reason for using reel to reel tapes is their durability. Unlike digital files which can be easily corrupted or lost, physical tapes have a longer lifespan when properly stored. This makes them an ideal medium for archiving important recordings or preserving cherished memories.

In conclusion,

My Buying Guide on ‘Reel To Reel Recording Tape’

As a music enthusiast and recording artist, I have had my fair share of experience with various recording tapes. However, when it comes to reel to reel recording tape, I must say that it is my go-to choice for high-quality audio recordings. In this buying guide, I will share my knowledge and experience with reel to reel recording tapes to help you make an informed decision.

What is Reel To Reel Recording Tape?

Reel to reel recording tape is a magnetic tape used for audio recordings. It consists of a plastic film coated with magnetic material, which allows sound signals to be recorded and played back. The tape is wound on two reels – the supply reel and the take-up reel – which are then placed on a tape recorder for recording or playback.

Why Choose Reel To Reel Recording Tape?

There are several reasons why I prefer using reel to reel recording tapes over digital recordings. Firstly, the analog sound produced by these tapes is much warmer and richer compared to digital recordings. Additionally, the high dynamic range of reel to reel tapes allows for a more natural and authentic sound. Moreover, these tapes have a longer lifespan compared to digital formats, making them a reliable choice for archiving recordings.

Factors to Consider Before Buying Reel To Reel Recording Tape

When buying reel to reel recording tape, there are some crucial factors that you should keep in mind:

Type of Tape: There are two main types of reels – open-reel tapes and cassette tapes. Open-reels are larger in size and typically used in professional studios while cassette tapes are smaller and more convenient for personal use.

Tape Speed: The speed at which the tape moves during recording affects the quality of the audio. Higher speeds result in better sound quality but require more tape length.

Tape Length: The length of the tape determines how much audio can be recorded on it. Longer tapes allow for longer recordings but may require higher speeds for optimal quality.

Tape Thickness: Thicker tapes have more layers of magnetic material which results in better sound quality but can be more expensive.

Tips for Maintaining Reel To Reel Recording Tapes

Proper maintenance is essential for ensuring that your reels last long and maintain their high-quality sound output. Here are some tips that I follow:

– Store your reels in cool and dry environments.
– Keep your reels away from direct sunlight.
– Handle your reels with clean hands.
– Regularly clean the heads of your tape recorder.
– Rewind your tapes after each use.

In Conclusion

Reels to reel recording tape may seem like an old-school choice in today’s digital world; however, it still holds its ground when it comes to producing high-quality audio recordings. By considering the factors mentioned above and following proper maintenance tips, you can ensure that you get the best out of your investment in reels. Happy recording!

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Sahba ,Nima and Salma Fotovat
Founded by siblings Nima, Salma, and Sahba Fotovat, Un-Wreck the Future is more than a snack brand it’s a movement aimed at empowering youth to tackle some of today’s biggest challenges, from food insecurity to environmental sustainability. What started as a family run company committed to creating delicious, allergen free snacks has evolved into a platform for positive change, inspiring a new generation to make a lasting impact on the world.

in 2024, the founders of Un-Wreck the Future Nima, Salma, and Sahba Fotovat expanded their mission by launching an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and firsthand usage reviews. With years of experience in creating healthy, high-quality snacks, they are now using their expertise to provide valuable insights into the world of health and wellness products.

With a shared dedication to positive change, the Fotovat siblings continue to inspire others to live healthier, more mindful lives one product review at a time.