The in-akustik master tape shop
Welcome to our master tape shop! The fascination of analog music on tape is experiencing a real revival. Whether it's the warm sound, the tactile experience or the special aesthetics - tapes offer a performance that differs from digital formats. Here, you will find a curated selection of high-quality tapes. Whether you are already an experienced tape enthusiast or just taking your first steps in this field, we have the right tape material for you - most of them are real master tapes, i.e. copies of the actual production masters.
The renaissance of the audiotape
The fascination of analog music on tape is experiencing a remarkable revival. Similar to what happened to vinyl, which also went out of fashion with the advent of the CD, audiophiles in particular are rediscovering the advantages of analog recordings on tape. In the digital age, tapes offer a distinctive, warm and full sound that captures subtle nuances and dynamics in a way that many music lovers find particularly authentic and vibrant. This renaissance also reflects a growing desire for tangible, physical music formats.
History and technical development
The fascinating history of audio tape began in 1928 with Fritz Pfleumer's pioneering invention of magnetic tape. A decisive milestone was Eduard Schüller's development of the ring head in 1934, which still forms the basis of modern tape technology today. In the 1950s and 1960s, multi-track recordings revolutionized music production and enabled a previously unattainable level of complexity in recordings. This technological innovation democratized music production and created new creative possibilities for independent musicians. Particularly significant was the development of the tape speed of 15 ips, which became the studio standard and enabled exceptional sound quality.
Sound characteristics and comparison
Master tapes are characterized by special sound features:
- Rich, full sound with characteristic warmth
- Natural, wide dynamic range
- Pleasant, subtle noise that adds texture to the sound
- Open sound space with natural instrument distribution
- Authentic reproduction of transients and overtones
Compared to digital recordings, reel-to-reel tapes offer a warmer, fuller sound, while digital formats are characterized by greater detail and more precise spatial localization. The specific tape saturation gives the recordings a characteristic "analog sound", which is particularly noticeable with voices and acoustic instruments.
Master Tapes - The audiophile reference
Master tapes represent the highest level of quality in analog music reproduction. Each tape is produced on professional studio equipment with the utmost care to ensure unadulterated reproduction. The diverse repertoire of our catalogue includes various genres such as jazz, classical, rock and pop, with particular emphasis on audiophile recordings. These high-end tapes guarantee a sound quality that digital formats cannot achieve. The direct transfer from the original master tapes guarantees an authentic reproduction of the original recording session.
Maintenance and storage of reel-to-reel tapes
Tapes require special attention when storing and caring for them:
- Store in a cool, dry and dark place at a constant temperature
- Strict protection from direct sunlight and other UV radiation
- Regular cleaning
- Careful handling to avoid physical damage
- Regularly check the belt tension
- Proper storage in special archive boxes
With the right care, tapes can retain their exceptional sound quality for decades and thus offer remarkable longevity and high performance.
Reels - The heart of belt technology
The world of tape reels is a fascinating aspect of analog recording technology. From the early days to the present day, various standard sizes and materials have been established, each offering their own advantages and disadvantages.
The most common reel sizes range from 5 inch to professional 10.5 inch reels. The larger the coil, the longer the possible recording time. A 26.5 cm reel can record up to three hours of music at 19 cm/s tape speed. Early reels were made of metal, while modern versions are usually made of high-quality plastic.
The NAB metal reels, which are characterized by their durability and perfect concentricity, are particularly popular. The quality of the reel has a direct influence on the running of the tape and therefore on the playback quality.
An important feature is the hub on which the tape is wound. Professional reels have precisely manufactured hubs that ensure even tape transport. The spokes of the reel are also crucial - they must be stable enough to avoid deformations that could lead to synchronization fluctuations.
Collectors and enthusiasts particularly appreciate the robust metal coils from renowned manufacturers such as BASF, Telefunken and Revox. These are not only of high functional quality but have also become coveted collector's items.
The right choice of coil is an important aspect for optimum recording and playback quality and contributes significantly to the overall experience.
Community and product range
The lively reel-to-reel tape community is constantly growing and offers a valuable space for exchange and shared experiences. Regular meetings, workshops and online forums allow like-minded people to share their knowledge and exchange ideas about new products. Our shop offers a carefully curated selection of master tapes, from rare treasures to indie gems and timeless classics. The range is constantly being expanded to include new recordings and rediscovered rarities. We attach particular importance to the quality of the transfers and the careful documentation of the recordings.
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Our catalogue
Looking for the perfect tape for your next listening session? Then you have come to the right place!
Discover rare treasures and timeless classics - from rock and pop to jazz, classical and experimental music. Browse through our diverse range and find exactly the tape reels that perfectly complement your collection or take you on a musical journey of discovery.
Our tape material is mainly supplied on 10 reels.
We regularly expand our repertoire, so check back regularly to make sure you don't miss any new releases or rediscovered rarities. And if you can't find what you're looking for, don't hesitate to contact us! Or subscribe to our newsletter to make sure you never miss a new release.