Tape heads

You are probably not using it right, but before we get into that, what is the E-1 for? Cassette heads, r2r heads, or bulk tape demag?

Never mind, I Googled it. It's an r2r head demag. Probably not strong enough for a (regular size) screwdriver.

Anyway, do you know how to use one? If not, I'd be happy to explain.

Ketch,

I think you mean 6 inches, not 6 feet, don't you? Anyway, I suggest 18" to 2' for that size unit. You can approach the deck, demag everything, and then move away. The idea is not to turn the unit on or off while close to the metal heads, or you can actually magnetize them more than the tape would. With that small a unit, you probably don't want to run it for more than a minute or two at a time. The buzz is normal.

Move the tip of the demag unit back and forth over the head in the direction of the gap about 1/8" to 1/4" away from the metal. I think your unit has some kind of plastic over the tip so you can't scratch the head if you accidentally touch it. If not, wrap a turn of electrical tape around it where the two prongs come together, it won't affect the operation.

I think the unit is probably too small to have much effect on a typical screwdriver. You'd probably have better luck just heating the screwdriver over the stove, or with a propane torch.