Tape Project Forum

Tape Machines => Reel to Reel Tape Machines => Topic started by: luvmy92 on January 20, 2012, 07:36:26 AM

Title: MX5050 External Tape Rewire
Post by: luvmy92 on January 20, 2012, 07:36:26 AM

I'm new to the Forum and recently purchased a MX5050 B2HD that is in very good shape. I have seen a lot of mention of rewiring the tape heads to an external preamp, but can't seem to find a thread that provides explicit instructions or pics for the novice. :-) Can anyone who has performed this mod on their Otari provide detailed instructions/pics?

It would be greatly appreciated.

Title: Re: MX5050 External Tape Rewire
Post by: luvmy92 on January 25, 2012, 07:48:03 PM

Anyone? :)

Title: Re: MX5050 External Tape Rewire
Post by: stellavox on January 26, 2012, 06:00:13 AM

Hi Miks,

I'm going to see a friend on Sun who has an unmodified unit.  Will take a look and see if I can come up with any pointers.

Charles

Title: Re: MX5050 External Tape Rewire
Post by: luvmy92 on January 26, 2012, 04:15:09 PM

Thanks Charles. I was hoping to find a thread on here that would have some detailed pics, but no luck yet.

Mike

Title: Re: MX5050 External Tape Rewire
Post by: Listens2tubes on January 26, 2012, 06:22:26 PM

Wiring from the 2T-4T head switch on the headblock is recommended. That's what I plan to do.

Title: Re: MX5050 External Tape Rewire
Post by: ironbut on January 27, 2012, 12:43:44 PM

Hey Mike,

If you don't already have it, you should download the service manuals which can be found here;

http://www.tapeproject.com/smf/index.php/topic,1545.0.html

The wiring from the head switch should be done with shielded cables (ground the shield to the chassis at the output connectors end).
I've never done it with a 5050 but other members here have. I've done it with my Technics RS1500 and it wasn't too tough.

There may be some trial and error involved since the main pitfall is avoiding the hum induced from the motors (which is the reason for the shielding).
Other than that, you just need to keep the new cable out of the way of any moving parts (levers, linkages etc) and find a way to secure it there.

Hope this helps.

Title: Re: MX5050 External Tape Rewire
Post by: docb on January 27, 2012, 01:32:15 PM

You can call Shawn at Bottlehead Monday thru Thursday. He's done a ton of them and can talk you through it. 206-451-4275

Title: Re: MX5050 External Tape Rewire
Post by: stellavox on January 28, 2012, 05:17:20 AM

Suggest also adding a ground wire to the cables.  One end connected to the headblock as close to the playback head as you can get it - the other end to the ground lug on the preamp.  Can help reduce hum depending on your situation.  Listen for lowest hum connected / unconnected - if you end up not needing it then leave it unconnected.

Charles