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Tape FAQ

    Reel, Cassette and 8-track Cartridge Tape FAQ

    Determining length
    Determining the length of a cassette or 8-track Cartridge is as simple as looking at the label in most cases. Tape is rarely added or edited from a cartridge type tape.
    Reel-to-reel tapes are another story. Not only can these tapes vary in length from what the box might say, they can also be recorded at different speeds (sometimes on the same tape) and have different track configurations. The chart below is meant only as a guide for determining the length of reel tape. Only after playback can exact lengths be determined.

                  APPROX RUN TIME PER TRACK - ONE DIRECTION
                                            Speed (ips) 
     Length          1 7/8 3 3/4 7 1/2 15
     (225 Ft)          22.5 min 11.25 min 5 min ----
     (600 Ft)          60 min 30 min 15 min 7.5 min
     (1200 Ft)          120 min 60 min 30 min 15 min
     (1800 Ft)          180 min 90 min 45 min 22.5 min
     (2400 Ft)          240 min 120 min 60 min 30 min
     (3600 Ft)          360 min 180 min 90 min 45 min

    Multiply by number of mono or stereo tracks for exact recording times.


    Other tape formats
    Though we tranfer a great number of consumer reel, cassette and 8-track tapes, we handle other analog and digital consumer and professional tape formats as well. Contact us for more information.

    Shipping
    When shipping reel tapes, be sure to secure the end of the tape to the reel to keep the tape from unraveling during transit. 8-track cartridge and cassettes should be well cushioned to prevent crushing.

    What is meant by tape baking? Tape can suffer from what's called "sticky shed syndrome". There is much debate as to why this happens, but the current thought is that over time moisture absorbed by the bonding adhesive can cause the tape oxide(the part that records) to separate from the plastic backing. Subjecting the tape to low heat for several hours dries out the adhesive long enough to play the tape. If this is not done, the tape will shed off the backing and the adhesive will gum up the tape machine. This is mainly a problem with tape manufactured in the 70's and 80's. Another more common problem with tape from all eras is that the tape lubricant dries out causing screeching during playback which can damage the recording. Because baking a tape would make this worse, we only bake tape when it shows signs of sticky shed.

    About our Pricing

    There are flat rates or set-up fees for all transfers to CD. Restoration and Transfer rates are based on the length of the actual recording. There are additional rates for untangling wire and tape "baking". Return shipping is based on actual weight via US Priority Mail. A 50% deposit or a credit card number is required for us to start the work. We accept Check, Money Order and Visa/Mastercard and Discover. The credit form must accompany all credit card orders. Please print out the form, fill it in completely and mail it along with your recordings.



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