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8-Tracks and Open-Reels: Who’s Got ‘Em and Whatcha Got?

Hi everyone,

I’m curious whether anyone here is into 8-track or open reel decks and if so, why. What decks do you have?

I really enjoy these old formats just because I find the mechanics of different formats really interesting. I also like to find newly released music that is exclusive to these formats (I think it’s a fun way to discover new music). I have a Pioneer H-R99 8-track deck, a Pioneer RT-707 open reel deck, and a Pioneer RT-909 open reel deck. I’ve found an independent record label that releases only on open-reel tape, and I’ve had luck in finding punk and even some vapor wave releases on 8-track.
What about you? Any love for these formats?
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undefined OP
33 posts
 
I have to say, my refurbished Pioneer H-R99 sounds pretty damn good to my ears if playing new tapes or older tapes in good condition. I was surprised. I know that the format is inherently limited (or shite), so I definitely don't listen to 8-track for the sound quality alone (or at all). I just enjoy traveling back in time. (My Pioneer CTF1250 is vastly superior in sound quality to my 8-track.)

I do like that I can play my vaporwave tapes on a continuous loop when I have people over. No fussing with changing cassette sides or flipping a record. 

I also just enjoy the tinkering involved with 8-tracks. I've replaced the foil strips and pressure pads in all my 8-track cartridges. It gives me something tangible to work with and occupies my mind and passes time. 
undefined OP
33 posts
 
@wyoboy:

The label is called Orbita. They’re based in Ulyanovsk, Russia and release mostly post-punk, new wave, and cold wave bands (which is a lot of what I listen to these days). That scene seems to be alive and well there. I have a few of their releases and every one of them is great (both the sound quality and the music).
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