THE PROCESS
Transfer Reel to Reel tapes to CD:
Open reel tapes were produced in many formats - the two most often encountered are "domestic open-reel tape" and "studio" tape. Both types come in a variety of playing speeds and tape lengths, giving a range of playing times.
Domestic tapes were usually recorded at 1 7/8 ips (inches per second), 3 3/4 ips or even 7 1/2 ips and were normally quarter track.
In contrast, Studio recordings were often made on half-track tape at running speeds of 7 1/2 ips and 15 ips.
We use a pair of Revox B77 professional decks to replay tapes, catering for all speeds in both quarter- and half- track format.
Slower tape speeds (1 7/8 ips and 15/16 ips) can be accommodated using software designed for the purpose.
8-Track Quater inch Tape
Studio 8-track recordings on 1/4 inch tape were often made by up and coming bands. Individual instruments and vocals were allocated a separate track, with a view to mixing-down to 2-track stereo at a later date.
We use a Fostex R8 8-track open reel tape deck running at 15 ips to transfer each track separately onto CD, in studio quality. This enables the client to do the final mix-down on their own computer using one of the numerous studio software packages currently available.
As a guide, transfer of reel to reel tape is charged at £25 per hour of recorded material. This price includes any simple splicing and editing which may be required, prior to digital restoration and transfer to CD. More extensive repairs to broken or damaged tape can also be carried out at extra cost; in such cases it would be necessary to send the tape to us, so that we can advise on the cost and viability of restoration and transfer on an individual basis. Please contact us to discuss your requirements.
Broadband hiss and noise levels are reduced or removed during the transfer process.
As standard service, individual tracks are separated to give full track skip/search functions. CD text is added for convenience, and your disc is returned to you in a CD jewel case. For longer transfers, a second disc will be required, and both discs will be returned in a double CD jewel case. The transfer cost includes on-CD printing and a bespoke cover (front and back CD inserts) with full track listing. Alternative file formats (WMA, .mp3) can also be accommodated if preferred.
For non-copyright transfers, or if you own the copyright (which is often the case with open reel tape) any number of duplicate CDs can be produced - see Prices page for details.
Please Contact Us to discuss your requirements.
(All photographs copyright Audio Restored 2010)
