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Author Topic: Technics RS-1500 PROBLEM  (Read 6015 times)

Offline smp

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Technics RS-1500 PROBLEM
« on: January 18, 2009, 12:07:51 AM »
The capstan speed will not lock or run close to either of the 3 speed settings.
Torque on the takeups seem to be on the low side also.
Would like to repair, to archive stored recordings before it's final retirement.
Has anyone experienced this problem with a 1500?
Hopefully it's just related to the power supply. Maybe a bad regulator.

Does anyone know a source for parts.

Also I have original manual & maintenace docs for a 1520 if anyone is interested.

Thanks

Offline ironbut

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Re: Technics RS-1500 PROBLEM
« Reply #1 on: January 18, 2009, 10:58:37 AM »
Hi, welcome the the forum (BTW we use our real names here and you can add that to your signature in the user control panel). There was a similar problem with another members Technics. You can find that thread here;
http://www.tapeproject.com/smf/index.php/topic,530.0.html
If the machine is always slow (or does it speed up and slow down?) it could be that your tape path is contaminated with some gunk that's slowing the tape movement. Before you open it up and start checking the connections> reel motors> capstan motor controls, pull the headblock (3 silver headed hex head screws, then just pull the block straight out) and clean every surface the tape travels across thoroughly, make sure and let it dry completely before threading tape). Check that all the rotating parts (reversing roller, tension rollers, pinch rollers are rotating freely). Once all those basic things have been checked, put the headblock back on and try a tape. Make sure that the pinch roller is rotating at the same speed as the capstans when it's in play mode (use an tape you don't care about for these tests). If the machine was working correctly before (has it been in storage for a while?) try just running it from function to function (ff, rewind, play, stop, play, stop etc) since it could just be gunked up switches or controls.
If none of this helps, follow the thread above and be sure and check all the connections leading to the motors and clean the trim pots that control tension and capstan speed.
steve koto
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Offline smp

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Re: Technics RS-1500 PROBLEM
« Reply #2 on: January 18, 2009, 10:56:36 PM »
The speed seems to be about the same in the 15ips & 3 3/4ips settings. Slowest at the 7.5ips setting. The manual speed adjustment does effect the capstan speed. Yes it has been in storage for awhile. It was responding unusually before it went into dormancy in storage. It's time to relive some basic electronic janitorial skills and start with a cleanup. I'll update you on any progress made.

Thanks for your reply.