I didn’t think I needed to write this post, but it appears that someone purchased a Racal Store 4DS Instrumentation Recorder at least partially because I mentioned it, hoping that it would work as a four-track recorder for creating music.
Well, this is not a good idea. The machine uses non-standard-to-audio equalization. There is no “sel sync” (Ampex TM) to play back previously recorded tracks in time with newly recorded ones. There is no individual-channel erase system (and no erase head at all on the 7DS 1/2-inch, 7-track machine).
While this machine is useful to me for professional tape restoration. With a knowledge of its shortcomings and benefits, it can be a useful tool. I’m afraid, however, that I need to say, “DON’T TRY THIS AT HOME”!
In general, there are things that are posted on this Blog that if used inexpertly can fail to meet expectations and perhaps do damage. In this case, it only caused disappointment.
Specifically, instrumentation tape recorders were designed to gather data in the field and then permit later analysis of that data in the days before digital computers could do this much better. Audio and instrumentation look a lot alike, but are different enough that unless you completely understand the intiricate details, you will be disappointed.
I would also suggest that using the one-piece hard-disk-based digital music-production units from a variety of manufacturers will go much farther to enhancing your creative musical expression than an instrumentation recorder or even a cassette “porta studio”. I am not in a position to recommend any particular unit.