Otari MX-50 & MX-55

[rbwtapeinterlink-Bob]

My friends,

When I look at the Otari history I note that the MX 55 was produced in 1987 and the MX-50 in 1988. Can anyone tell me if this is the case and the difference between thes two tape recorders. Also, what is a "center time code channel" and what is its purpose?  Does either feature Library Wind and tape dump?
Thanks to all.

Bob W.

[ceved]

Robert,
Hello.
I own both of these machines.
The production dates you mentioned look about right.
The 55 is an older model.
The primary distinction is that the 55 can accommodate up to 12"reels, and in the high speed range can do up to 30ips.
The frame of the 55 is quite robust and the overall height and weight of the 55 exceed those of the 50.
As these two machines are newly acquired and awaiting the completion of my listening room; I will allow others to weigh in on your other questions.
Hope this is a good start.

[Arnold_Layne]

If I recall correctly, time coding is used for synching purposes. It's a signal recorded onto the tape so that the output of the deck can be synced with other decks such as a video editing console or mixing console.

A_L

[rbwtapeinterlink-Bob]

A_L and Charles,
Thank you very much. Charles, did you get my email? I recently got an email from the radio station and we are trying to set up a time and day for me to go see the machines. Please send me an email offline about this.

Tell me, what led you to choose two Otari recorders that are basically the same other than speed and reel size? What is it about these recorders that drew you? I understand you have several other recorders as well.

I am truly sorry that you have such a long wait to get your listening room finished. That has to have you somewhat depressed. Plus, you can't put the tape recorders to use. My heart goes out to you sir.

Bob W.

[ceved]

Robert,
Yes I did.
Yes I will.
On the other;
The plain unblemished truth is ignorance.
My own unfortunately.
I was under the impression that recording at 30 IPS had unqualified better sonic results than 15 IPS.
Since then and with some opinions expressed in this forum, I have begun to think otherwise.
In the meantime you are quite correct that my listening room is gutted.
Unfortunately, our kitchen is above a portion of our listening room, and all our appliances seem to be breaking and not capable of repair after 19 years.
GE Monogram is quite good afterall.  I do not own GE stock or derive any income from the appliance industry!
That means that we are now gutting the kitchen as well.
Oh joy; so the time frame for the listening room will be adversely impacted due to the rewiring and rerouting of drains/vents etc in the ceiling.
Do we have any trained arsonists on this forum?
Don't be shy speak up!
In the meantime, the two boxes containing my 55 and my Tascam BR 20 make lovely endtables.  An understated lamp and vase upon each appoint the couch quite nicely.
With a bit of fabric from Michaels Arts and Crafts, you would hardly know they were boxes.
It sort of reminds me of This End Up packing crate furniture done in heavy cardboard.
I may be on one of Oprah's makeover shows if this keeps up!
Don't worry I will put the 5050 where everyone will see it.
Robert, I appreciate your expression of sympathy, but this doesn't depress me.
Now when I look in the mirror, that depresses me!
I have also developed some heart issues here lately so be careful what you offer!
I may list you as an unwilling organ donor!
You don't happen to be a healthy male between the age of 25 and 50 are you?
Where did you say you live again?
I will be in touch.
All the best!