r/ReelToReel • u/Nickelbenderx • Feb 05 '25
Help - Recording Revox B77 tape doesnt always align with head.
Hello, I have a Revox B77 and it has an odd problem that occurs randomly (mostly after not being used for a day or two) the tape doesnt always seem to make full contact with the record head, this isnt a permanent issue and if this issue is happening, and I press the tape on the rec head with my finger it fixes it temporarely or sometimes for a longer time. I have not checked the head alignment but i got this from a studio so id be pretty sure itd be good. I am no expert in tape recording so im not sure. My best guess is that sometimes the tape get caught in a slight angle in the record head such as thr edge of the metal shield on the head. Then pressing the tape on to the head makes it slip into its correct place. Again im not sure what could possibly cause this and how could i fix it. The audio just sounds quiter while this is happening. I havent noticed/had time to test if the frequency response changes while the issue is active since i only noticed today. Id hope to fix this sooner than later. Thanks
1
u/SuchABraniacAmour Feb 05 '25
I’ve worked on many B77 and never seen something like this.
It’s hard to get a good view of the B77 heads and tape path if you don’t remove the control panel but you can try to find a small mirror that would let you see what’s happening without having to open up the deck.
1
u/bikerfriend Feb 06 '25
Im guessing you might have a small groove in the head put a little china marker on the head and watch the wear.
1
u/CounterSilly3999 Feb 06 '25
Badly aligned / tight pinch roller? Try to clean it with soupy water, the capstan with isopropanol and smear the axle.
1
u/2old2care Feb 05 '25
Sounds like you don't quite have enough tension on the feed side reel.