Many projects recorded through the 80's have as there original source an analog master. While the analog recording process is quite robust, often the tape manufacturer used materials that do not maintain their properties over time. This analog tape degradation is referred to as 'sticky shed syndrome', and manifests itself as pieces of oxide (the magnetic part of magnetic tape) falling off of the backing while the tape is played. This can mean that your masters are quite literally falling apart!
Oxide 'sheds' onto recorder heads (and guides) as tape is played through a typical tape transport. Note the brownish deposits to the top and bottom of the path across the playback head, as well as 'streaking' to right of the head gap. A film of oxide forms, which causes the tape to lose tight contact with the head when played. In addition to the irreversible tape damage that is taking place, the playback response is noticeably affected.
While it is not unusual for some oxide to be shed while playing a typical analog tape, the amount you see here is excessive. It accumulated in less than 100 ft. (a few minutes @ 15 ips) of tape play, while this much might more commonly be seen in an entire reel of high-quality tape. The brownish deposit is visible here after removal with proper cleaning fluid and a cotton swab.
Fortunately, there are some proven methods for 'restoring' analog tape to its optimum condition, and a transfer to other media is possible. We can treat this condition in our 'Tape Lab' using a special temperature-controlled convection oven, and then play these tapes (gently) on our customized Studer A-80, while recording the stereo audio to a durable, high-resolution digital format. At MasterMix, we have more than 25 years of experience dealing with analog masters, and specialize in 'recapturing' the essence of your valuable recordings so that they can sound great for years to come.
Typically this process takes several days, and pricing depends on quantity of tapes and program lengths. We are happy to discuss your special requirements at any time.
