The KillerDAC Audio forum

General HIFI => Reel to Reel => Topic started by: ozmillsy on July 05, 2018, 12:42:22 PM

Title: Phono Stages, as Tape headamps?
Post by: ozmillsy on July 05, 2018, 12:42:22 PM

Hey guys, I have been doing some reading online.

And I discovered that the general EQ curve for tape head output follows the RIAA standard (which as we all know, is the same standard for vinyl).

The signal off the heads is low, around 1mV or less.    Which is similar to alot of MC cartridges.

I understand the EQ sections in tape machines also have slightly different curves allow for tape speed and IEC/NAB standards.

But,,,, is it crazy to think, that an MC phono stage, could be theoretically used as a tape headamp, to receive the signal directly off the heads of our tape machines?   With perhaps some minor tweaks to get it right?

Anyone played with this before?

Title: Re: Phono Stages, as Tape headamps?
Post by: gamve on July 11, 2018, 08:46:56 AM

It can be done but on a machine by machine basis. The tricky part is matching the tape head impedance.

Title: Re: Phono Stages, as Tape headamps?
Post by: ozmillsy on July 11, 2018, 10:18:35 AM

Cool.    Certainly makes me want to try.