but the signal can be taken directly from the tape heads to an external valve head amp - so much better than the fairly nasty silicone. That's the next stage for me
Yes that's is my next move as well, Lets check out the external valve head amps around. I may get paul to make one with the right bits.
Making a good valve replay electronics is not trivial.
You need a whole lot of stuff like various EQ curves, bias traps and super low noise. You also need
adjustment of those EQ's which are set from calibration tapes. I have a friend who used to set up
a lot of the pro studio 2 inch machines in Sydney, optimal set up of the replay is a bit of an art.
WRT your player, the Tascam electronics are actually better than most give credit to. If the player you have is
similar to a (semi)pro 16 track 1 inch machine I had years ago, the electronics were all discrete, high slew very
low noise.
FWIW, I've seen Studer pro tape machine electronics with numerous opamps in the path.
If you want simple upgrade, a dedicated replay electronics power supply is not a bad place to start.
If you are really serious, cut to the chase and buy an Ampex ATR 102. Best non-custom 1/4" 1/2" R2R ever made.
There are quite a few around because every one knew this. You should be able to pick one up for around 3 grand.
Z