Many of us remember the days of cassette-based 4-track machines. Likewise, we can recall the days of receiving mixtapes on actual cassette tapes, not over email. I have found that the problem with playing old cassettes is usually mechanical in nature - crinkled tape, broken tape, or the worst-case scenario, a deck eats the tape. Consumers would assume there is no hope, but audio engineers are not afraid to roll up our sleeves and attack the problem. Removing the tape reels and transplanting them into a new shell often solves the issue. However, if the tape is torn or damaged, a splice may be in order. Trying to splice 1/8'' tape on a 1/2'' block is not the way to live. Here is where the RG-Recording splicing block comes in. The block is made of hardwood (oak, ash, or birch), has a channel sized specifically for cassette tape, and comes standard with 90° and 45° cut guides. RG-Recording can even make a block with custom cut angles for no additional cost. The block is about 7'' long and has a non-slip rubber base to keep things steady. Given its price, it's a no brainer.
$12.99 w/ free shipping; stores.ebay.com/rg-recording
Garrett Haines is at www.treelady.com
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