Ampex 300

[ironbut]

Discussion of an interesting machine came up on the Ampex list recently. The Ampex 300.
It seems to be kind of a cross between the MR70 (transport) and 350 (electronics). It could be "rare-er" than the 70 so, I wouldn't bother looking for one on eBay.
Here's some photos of an 8 track.

[xcortes]

I have an Ampex 300 transport that was purchased NOS. It was serviced and it has extended response heads (both 2 and 4 track). It sounds amazing. Can't still decide whether I like it more than the Spitz ATR. It is that good. It is an idler machine and as such shares the house signature of my beloved Garrard 301.

Unfortunately some connection failed and I have to fix it but haven't got to it yet. But the failure has given me the opportunity to study it. It's an amazing tractor.

Saludos

Ps I suscribed to the Ampex list today.

[ironbut]

Duh!
So that's the Ampex you mentioned in your emails.

Cool find Xavier!
IIRC, it's Donald Lang that just got the 300 shown in the pictures I posted. His machine is without lifters (for ff or rewind) and the discussion has centered around solving this issue so far.
There was some discussion regarding the idler "donut". The condition of this part seems to be key to the performance of the transport. Not only the measurements such as diameter but also the compliance of the rubber itself needs to be within spec (being a 301 owner, I don't have to tell you this).
If you have questions regarding this item in particular, I suggest contacting Doc's pal Dave Dintenfass at Full Track (actually for any 300 part or question).
http://www.fulltrackproductions.com/

Subscribing to the Ampex list should also help a great deal. Mr. Lang will surely be keeping the list abreast of his restoration of his machine and it should be really interesting (let alone all the other great stuff that gets posted there). It's been a while since I looked at them, but the list archives will also be available to you.
If you don't have the manuals, I have them. Just give me a holler.

BTW If you guys don't know, that studio photo is the band Buffalo Springfield with a couple of kids in the picture being Stephen Stills and Neil Young (and is that a young Jim Messina ?)

[xcortes]

Dave has been helping my friend Jorge put his 350 back on service and I hear he's a nice guy.

My machine was serviced and adjusted by Len Horowitz from "The history of recorded sound". These guys are into vinyl lathe reconstruction and servicing and know their business. My machine is as nice as you can get. But shipping is always hard to bear on wiring. Ask Dan about our recent experiences!

[ironbut]

Absolutely gorgeous Xavier!
Looks like it just left the showroom floor.