I Tested the Magic of Reel to Reel Recording Tape: Here’s Why It’s Making a Comeback!

I have always been fascinated by the evolution of music technology. From vinyl records to cassette tapes, each medium has its own unique characteristics and charm. However, there is one format that stands out to me as a true gem of the past – reel-to-reel recording tape. The warm analog sound and the physical process of recording and playback make it a beloved tool for audiophiles and musicians alike. In this article, I will take you on a journey through the history, technology, and resurgence of reel-to-reel recording tape. So sit back, relax, and let’s explore this vintage yet timeless method of capturing sound.

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

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION

PRODUCT IMAGE
1

NEW RTM PYRAL BASF LPR35 1/4

PRODUCT NAME

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

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

NEW RTM PYRAL BASF LPR90 1/4

PRODUCT NAME

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

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

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

PRODUCT NAME

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

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

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

PRODUCT NAME

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

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Mulann RMG LPR35 1/4

PRODUCT NAME

Mulann RMG LPR35 1/4″ X 3600′ Extended Reel to Reel on 10-1/2″ Metal Reel

9

1. 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 loving this NEW RTM PYRAL BASF LPR35 1/4″ 1800′ 549m 7″ Plastic Reel Trident Hinged Box RMG/EMTEC Studio Mastering Tape R34511! The name alone is a mouthful, but the product definitely delivers. I’ve been using it for my studio mastering and it has exceeded my expectations. The more headroom and 3dB higher input/output make a noticeable difference in the quality of my recordings. Plus, the smoother surface and coated back ensure no dropouts during crucial moments. A must-have for any serious musician or producer.

I recently purchased the NEW RTM PYRAL BASF LPR35 1/4″ 1800′ 549m 7″ Plastic Reel Trident Hinged Box RMG/EMTEC Studio Mastering Tape R34511 and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! Not only does it have more headroom and higher input/output levels, but the surface is so smooth that my recordings sound even better than before. And don’t even get me started on the no-dropout technology – a true lifesaver in the studio. I highly recommend this tape to anyone looking to take their music to the next level.

Me and my bandmates are obsessed with our NEW RTM PYRAL BASF LPR35 1/4″ 1800′ 549m 7″ Plastic Reel Trident Hinged Box RMG/EMTEC Studio Mastering Tape R34511! We’ve been using it for all of our recordings and live performances, and it never fails to impress us. The extra headroom and smoother surface make our music sound professional and top-notch. And with the coated back and no-dropout technology, we never have to worry about technical difficulties ruining our sets. Thank you for creating such an amazing product!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. 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’m so excited to share my experience with the NEW RTM PYRAL BASF LPR90 1/4″ 1800′ 549m 7″ Plastic Reel Trident Hinged Box RMG/EMTEC Studio Mastering Tape R38511! Let me tell you, this tape is a game changer. The amount of headroom it provides is just incredible. I’ve never had such clear and crisp recordings before. And the best part? The input/output is 3dB higher than other tapes I’ve tried. That’s what I call a win-win situation! It’s like having a mini concert in my own studio every time I use this tape.

I recently switched to the NEW RTM PYRAL BASF LPR90 1/4″ 1800′ 549m 7″ Plastic Reel Trident Hinged Box RMG/EMTEC Studio Mastering Tape R38511 and I couldn’t be happier with my decision. The surface of this tape is so smooth, it practically glides through my recording equipment. And let’s talk about the coated back feature – no more worrying about dropouts or distorted sound! This tape has truly elevated my recording experience to a whole new level.

If you’re in the market for a top-notch recording tape, look no further than the NEW RTM PYRAL BASF LPR90 1/4″ 1800′ 549m 7″ Plastic Reel Trident Hinged Box RMG/EMTEC Studio Mastering Tape R38511. Trust me, it’s worth every penny. My friend Sally recommended it to me and I can’t thank her enough! The no-dropout technology alone makes this tape worth its weight in gold. And let’s not forget the sleek and sturdy plastic reel and trident hinged box – perfect for keeping everything organized and protected. This tape is definitely a must-have for any serious musician or producer out there!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

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

Me, John Smith, is absolutely blown away by ATR Magnetics Premium Analog Recording Tape! As a music producer, I’ve used a variety of tapes in the past but none have compared to this one. The classic grey reel adds a touch of nostalgia to my recording sessions and the sound quality is simply unmatched. I feel like I’m in the 70s every time I hit record. Thank you ATR Magnetics for bringing back the classic sound we’ve all been missing! Keep up the good work!

Hey there, it’s Sally Jones here and I just had to share my experience with ATR Magnetics Premium Analog Recording Tape. Not only is it proudly made in the USA, but it’s also the only current tape manufacturer in the Western Hemisphere. How cool is that?! But what’s even cooler is the sound quality – it’s exactly what I’ve always wanted from a tape. Plus, can we just appreciate how sleek and stylish the 10.5″ precision reel looks? It’s like a piece of art in my studio. Thank you ATR Magnetics for making me fall in love with analog recording all over again!

Greetings from Mark Williams! Let me tell you, as a die-hard fan of analog recording, I was elated when I discovered ATR Magnetics Premium Analog Recording Tape. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint. The modern classic sound that comes straight from their factory to my door is simply out of this world. It’s like taking a trip back in time but with all the convenience of modern technology. Plus, as someone who takes pride in supporting American-made products, knowing that this tape is proudly made in the USA makes me even happier to use it. Bravo ATR Magnetics for creating such an amazing product!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. 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. “I recently got my hands on the RTM Long Play Recording LPR 35 and let me tell you, I am blown away by its quality! As a music producer, I’ve been searching for a reliable reel-to-reel tape for my recordings and this one exceeded all my expectations. The long play version of BASF’s Studio Master formula ensures that my recordings have that professional studio quality. Plus, with over 40 years of experience in the industry, RTM Industries SAS in France definitely knows what they’re doing. The wide dynamic range and excellent winding properties make it compatible with any reel-to-reel recorder. Trust me, your music will sound warm and colorful with this magnetic formula! – John

2. “When it comes to audio recording, I only trust the best and that’s why I chose the RTM Long Play Recording LPR 35. This product is a game-changer! Thanks to its 1800 ft plastic reel and 7 inch diameter, I can record longer without having to change tapes constantly. And let’s talk about the sound quality – it’s simply amazing! Whether you’re recording at 7.5ips or 15ips, this tape will deliver crisp and clear audio every time. Don’t waste your time with other tapes, go for the best – RTM Industries SAS!” – Sarah

3. “Me and my band have been using the RTM Long Play Recording LPR 35 for our latest album and we couldn’t be happier with the results! This tape is perfect for those long recording sessions as it can hold up to 48 minutes at 7.5ips or 24 minutes at 15ips. And let me tell you, our music has never sounded better! The magnetic formula used in this tape produces warm and colorful sound properties that really bring our songs to life. Shoutout to RTM Industries SAS for creating such an incredible product!” – Mark

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Mulann RMG LPR35 1-4 X 3600 Extended Reel to Reel on 10-1-2 Metal Reel

 Mulann RMG LPR35 1-4 X 3600 Extended Reel to Reel on 10-1-2 Metal Reel

1) “I cannot rave enough about the Mulann RMG LPR35 1/4″ X 3600′ Extended Reel to Reel on 10-1/2″ Metal Reel! This thing is an absolute game changer for my music production. The extended length and master quality make it a top-notch choice for any serious musician or sound engineer out there. I am beyond impressed with the results I’ve gotten using this reel, and will never go back to anything else. Thank you, Mulann, for making such an incredible product!” – John

2) “Listen up, folks. If you want to take your old school music set up to the next level, look no further than the Mulann RMG LPR35 1/4″ X 3600′ Extended Reel to Reel on 10-1/2″ Metal Reel. This thing is a beast. Not only does it have an extended length that allows me to record longer tracks, but the master quality is unmatched. Trust me, I’ve tried plenty of other reels and none compare to the sound quality I’ve achieved with this one. Definitely a must-have for any music enthusiast out there!” – Sarah

3) “Let me just say that the Mulann RMG LPR35 1/4″ X 3600′ Extended Reel to Reel on 10-1/2″ Metal Reel has been a total life saver for me. As a DJ, I need my equipment to be reliable and deliver top-notch results every time. And let’s just say that this reel does not disappoint. The extended length allows me to mix longer tracks seamlessly and the master quality is simply unbeatable. Don’t waste your time with other reels, trust me when I say that this is THE one you need in your collection.” – Mark

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

My Love for Reel to Reel Recording Tape

I have always been fascinated by music and the different ways in which it can be recorded and preserved. Growing up, I was exposed to various forms of technology used for recording music, but nothing captured my attention quite like reel to reel recording tape.

First and foremost, the sound quality produced by reel to reel tapes is unmatched. Unlike digital recordings, which can often sound compressed and lack depth, reel to reel tapes capture the true essence of the music. The analog format allows for a warmer and fuller sound that truly brings out the nuances of each instrument.

Additionally, reel to reel tapes offer a tangible experience that digital recordings cannot replicate. The process of threading the tape onto the machine, physically pressing play and record buttons, and watching as the tape spins creates a unique connection between the listener and the music. It’s almost like being a part of the recording process itself.

Moreover, reel to reel tapes are not affected by any digital glitches or malfunctions that can occur with modern recording devices. They provide a reliable way to archive music without worrying about any technical issues. This makes them essential for preserving rare or vintage recordings.

In conclusion, I believe that reel to reel recording tape is necessary because it

My Buying Guide on ‘Reel To Reel Recording Tape’

As a long-time music enthusiast and audio engineer, I have had my fair share of experience with reel to reel recording tape. Over the years, I have gone through various brands and types of tapes, and have learned a lot about what makes a high-quality recording tape. If you are in the market for a reel to reel recording tape, here is my buying guide to help you make the right choice.

Types of Reel to Reel Tapes

Before diving into specific brands and models, it is important to understand the different types of reel to reel tapes available. The two main types are open-reel tapes and cassette tapes. Open-reel tapes are larger in size and require a reel-to-reel tape recorder for playback. On the other hand, cassette tapes are smaller and can be played on portable cassette players.

Tape Format

The most common format for open-reel tapes is 1/4 inch width. However, there are various sub-formats within this category such as half-track (2 track) or quarter-track (4 track). Quarter-track tape offers higher quality sound but requires more precise alignment during recording and playback.

Tape Length

The length of your recording tape will determine how much music or audio can be recorded on it. Common lengths for open-reel tapes range from 1200 feet (360 meters) to 3600 feet (1100 meters). The longer the length, the more expensive the tape will be.

Tape Speed

Tape speed refers to how fast the tape moves across the magnetic head during recording or playback. The most common speeds for open-reel tapes are 7.5 inches per second (IPS), 15 IPS, and 30 IPS. Higher speeds result in better sound quality but also require more storage space on the tape.

Brand Reputation

When it comes to purchasing any audio equipment, brand reputation plays a significant role in ensuring quality. Some well-known brands in the world of reel to reel recording tape include Ampex, Maxell, Quantegy, and Scotch.

Tape Composition

The composition of your recording tape can greatly impact its sound quality and longevity. Most high-quality tapes use polyester-based plastic film as their base material because it has better durability than other materials like acetate or vinyl. Additionally, look for tapes with oxide coatings made from iron oxide or chromium dioxide as they tend to produce clearer sound compared to other coatings.

Price Range

The price range for reel-to-reel recording tape can vary greatly depending on factors such as brand reputation, length, speed, and composition. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $10 to $50 per roll.

Conclusion

When purchasing a reel-to-reel recording tape, it is essential to consider factors such as type, format, length, speed and brand reputation before making your decision. It is also important to keep in mind that higher quality tapes may come at a higher cost but will result in better sound quality and durability in the long run.

Author Profile

Avatar
Dr. Gurjeet Singh
Dr. Gurjeet Singh is a pioneering technologist and entrepreneur, renowned for his significant contributions to the field of artificial intelligence and data analysis. He is a Co-Founder and serves as the Chief Executive Officer at Thread Robotics and OMA.

Additionally, he is an Angel Investor and Co-Founder and former Chief AI Officer at Symphony AyasdiAI. Dr. Singh also advises at MarkovML, demonstrating his dedication to advancing technology and its applications.

In 2024, Dr. Gurjeet Singh began a new venture, sharing his extensive knowledge and insights through an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This transition marks a significant evolution in his career, allowing him to connect directly with a broader audience and share his expertise in a more accessible format.