Translucent leader tape

[kipdent]

I have a Studer A80RC MK II whose light gate is set to stop the tape transport whenever it encounters clear, translucent or no tape. I really enjoy this feature as it prevents tape "slapping" on FF and RW and allows for accurate time indexing for songs on tape as the counter also does not count when such tape is sensed by the optical light sensor.

I used to source translucent white mylar leader tape from US Recording Media, but my last order contained an "updated" formulation that is completely opaque and, of course, prevents the A80 from operating as described above. Does anyone know another source I could try to get this type of leader tape?

Thanks in advance--

Kip

[ironbut]

Hey Kip,

Give these guys a try. I believe the blue mylar leader is translucent but just be sure and contact them to confirm this.
When something like this leader starts to get scarce, it would be a good idea to put just enough to engage "stop" and splice in regular tape after that (like on our TP tapes).

http://www.tapecenter.com/cltale1retor.html
http://www.tracertek.com/index.php?app=ccp0&ns=catshow&ref=taperes&sid=60zp02093t472p98kx11n57mrynw5lnj

I keep meaning to do that with the paper leader I like so much (talk about retro to the extreme!) but I guess I'm not so good at taking my own advice (or maybe just freakin' stupid!).

[jeri]

Kip,

Could you try making your own transparent window by removing the oxide layer from a short section of regular tape?  (You could splice in a short piece of blank tape rather than damaging part of the prerecorded tape if you like.)

I remember watching the tech do this years ago at school while making dupes for the Classical Music lab.  She dipped a Q-Tip in solvent and wiped a section of the duplicated tape to make the clear window.  I have no idea what solvent was used at the time.  Maybe heptane or whatever you are using as a head cleaner would work.

[kipdent]

Thanks everyone for the tips and options. I did find this place, too, and though they have to special order it, apparently RMGI can supply it.

http://www.fullcompass.com/product/370041.html

Kip

[c1ferrari]

Thanks, Kip, for this thread...I'll need some for the A820.