Reel to reel Advice.

jt45

Ok, ive got a pioneer rack system from the 70s that i just got back together and put on a old reel to reel tape, finally figured out how to get the RT 2044 playing but i havent figured out getting the equalizer hooked up yet, ive got multiple components in this rack and only have the original manuals for the spec 1 and spec 2 and the CT-F 9191, Im missing manuals for the TX-9500 and the SG-9500 Equalizer and the RG-1 Dynamic processor, Anyway i was wondering if anyone has a simular setup and could steer me in the right direction for those manuals, I also cannot believe how good these reel to reel live recordings sound, I am blown away by how life like they sound, I have no Idea who the band was but, every string on the guitare including the sounds of the pick clipping the wood, Truely felt like i was there 33 yrs ago, Sorry for rambling but im shocked that my new VSX-920 doesnt even come close in sound stage to a homemade recording of a unnamed band playing on this vintage player on a reel to reel tape from way back when, and this is thru a old pair of pioneer k 535s that are a little ragged to say the least.I was using them to test the setup, I will be spending alot of time getting to know this system ( cost me 10.00 gas and a little work getting it moved ). Im a vary happy camper right now, its like stepping back in time to a better time. Thanks in advance to anyone who can help !

jt45

Sorry im just getting started here and dont know how to post that well !

tonyb

Many of us old timers compare Reel/Reel to vinyl,it's that good. Ken Swagger has some extensive knowledge on these,maybe he'll chime in. Do a search here also,I know Ken had some links in one of his posts that might help you.

[Deleted User]

Hello JT45,
Welcome to CP, I'm glad you're enjoying the tape deck. Having a well made live recording is an excellent beginning. Sometimes lucky people would get a tape that was recorded right at the band's mixing board for a live concert. They turn up on eBay every-so-often and can be super expensive if it's the right group.
Does the Pioneer have a "pre-amp" out and a "power amp" in set of connections? There might be two metal loops or a pair of joined RCA plugs making a side-by-side connection? If so, this could be used to connect the EQ, but if things are sounding good already you might not need it.
Enjoy, Ken

jt45

Yes i have the spec 1 and the spec 2 in line, only problem im having is with multiple components, the connection diagram just dont seem to make any sense in that it only shows a connection to the reel to reel and none of the other components. You are right I may not need it, I just wanted to bring all these components to life again, as they take me back to my early years listening to my folks stuff. The recordings on the tape turned out to be live practice sessions of a local band that sounded really good, I also have some John lennon recordings and alot of classic rock, some of the tapes i havent tried yet. One thing i noticed is unfiltered music without all the modern day processing sounds pretty blipping good, kinda puts you right there in front stage. I think i like hearing all the music , not just the polished versions like we get these days. Made me sit down and listen ! LOL ! Amazed I was . You can see what im working with in the system showcase cat. My camera aint much though. Thanks !