Tape Project Forum

Tape Machines => Tape Tech => Topic started by: dkeithpeoples on July 30, 2015, 05:18:55 PM

Title: Weird speed issue with Otari 5050
Post by: dkeithpeoples on July 30, 2015, 05:18:55 PM
I just finished building my Eros tape preamplifier and the first time I played my recently restored and upgraded MX5050 everything sounded like it was working fine except for the tape rubbing against a bent take up reel. I replaced the take up reel and now I cannot get the tape player to run at normal playback speed. The display says it is set on 15 ips. When I hit the play button it takes off at fast forward speed. Has anyone ever seen a problem like this? Am I missing a switch somewhere? Could I have blown a fuse?
Title: Re: Weird speed issue with Otari 5050
Post by: docb on July 31, 2015, 08:51:16 AM
When you press the play button is the pinch roller engaging and clamping the tape against the capstan?
Title: Re: Weird speed issue with Otari 5050
Post by: dkeithpeoples on August 01, 2015, 03:25:06 PM
Thanks. That might have been the problem. It is working today. It sounds wondrous. The combination of the Magnetic flux tape head with the Eros is incredible. I can't wait to play one of my Tape Project tapes but I need to figure out a better way to fast rewind. The method I used did not wrap the tape tight enough. What are the best practices for rewinding ?
Title: Re: Weird speed issue with Otari 5050
Post by: docb on August 01, 2015, 06:36:10 PM
If the tape is packing too loose the brakes may need adjusting.
Title: Re: Weird speed issue with Otari 5050
Post by: Listens2tubes on August 01, 2015, 08:22:03 PM
Try cleaning (DeOxit) and exercising the Pitch Control, that even when off can cause speed issues.
Title: Re: Weird speed issue with Otari 5050
Post by: Waltzingbear on January 08, 2016, 12:15:20 PM
This is a common problem for all versions of the MX5050, cleaning the pitch control switch will give you better sleep at night knowing your deck will roll tape at a consistent speed.  :-)

Cheers
Alan