How to Use the Rear Panel of a Tape Machine

While today's digital recording has made a studio available on anyone's computer, there is still a great demand for analog recording. For ease of use and high sound quality an analog two-track recorder is hard to beat. This technology is so simple that you can record after only a brief tutorial. The nerve center of the two-track tape machine is the rear panel.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Two-track tape machine

1. Turn the machine around so you are facing away from the reel to reel element and looking at the flat back. While different brands may have slightly altered setups, they will look and function mostly the same.

2. Inspect the power cable running from the rear. Many machines operate using three-prong plugs, which provide a well-grounded connection. However, if your machine has only a two-prong plug, it is advisable to use the grounding pin to avoid power surges and electrical damage.

3. Clean out the five-pin DIN connectors. These provide access to the front two channels and back two channels respectively. The large number of openings for these connectors means a greater possibility of dirt and grime over time. Wipe out with a dry cotton swab.

4. Check the fuse. If your machine is not working, unscrew the circular fuse in the back of the machine. If the tube is blackened and looks like a blown light bulb, it is a sign of a bad fuse. Most electronics shops will carry this item.

5. Learn the difference between output and input connectors. These are ¼-nch jacks similar to the outputs on musical instruments. There are four connectors. The first two are for output, which allow you to hook up a monitor system in order to play back what you've recorded. The other two are for inputting instruments. This is where you will plug in what you want recorded.