Otari MX-5050

The Otori MX 5050 is an 8 track cassette recorder that operates at 3.75 ips. It has the same recording head as the MX 5050 , which is superior to that of the 488 and 488 mkII. dbx Type II can be engaged across tracks 1-4 and 5-8 separately, there is a pitch/speed wheel that allows for plus or minus 15% change, the transport is digital controlled to allow automated punch-ins between the memory points that can be set, it can interface with the same remote control as the MX 5050 , and the drive system is direct, meaning no capstan belt will ever have to be changed. Also, unlike the 488's, this machine can record across all 8 track simultaneously. For time code purposes, the noise reduction can be disengaged on track 8 separately, via a switch on the back on the recorder. There is also an Accessory 2 port, which allows it to be used with the Tascam MIDIizer, a device that can easily synchronize the MX 5050 , MSR-16, MSR-24, and I believe the 644 and 688.

A high bias (Type II) cassette should be used, preferably at a length no longer than 60 minutes. With a 60 minute cassette, 15 minute recordings can be made per tape as the recorder operates in one direction at double the normal playback and recording speed.

I owned one of these machines for a couple of years but it didn't see a lot of use in my studio because I also had reel to reel multitrack recorders. A mixer is required of this machine, but this means the user is not limited to the basic mixers of the Portastudios. It is capable of producing solid sounding recordings, particularly when considering that it makes them on simple, cheap cassettes. But, in all honesty, I'd be more apt to use a cheap digital Portastudio, such as the 788, before using a machine like this again, as it can't really hold a candle to recordings made on reel machines.

I am trying to restore this magneto finally I try because too rare.
it is beautiful, easy disassemble and maintain; EUROPEAN hardware, everything is accessible. The problem, it is not found Tocón taken, no longer exist.
other XLR sockets, JAE, are.
Hardware very heavy and very bulky, but what a charm for a sound passionate.
200 is the price of the wreck. I dsoss completely, I handed the 16 XLR sockets, two JAE mle and socket. I dsoss the mechanical part, heads and motors. a brake constantly pressed a motor, missing pin on electro magnet. HS hardware breaks in the aluminum frame. I do not understand that one can vandalize this such a beautiful stuff. Now it's like new. lacks a super important to make the cable rglages electronic (cable DECK / AMPS). I offer this cable 100. Otherwise, it will serve as decoration
The true reference number of this unit is 8SD MX5050. The doc is found here: http://s603.photobucket.com/albums/tt119/Vonfonerick/?action=view&current=OtariReeltoReel023.jpg&newest=1
jean yves

- How long have you use it?
It's been several years that I have, but just out for review and I just spent a week on record on

- What is so special that you like most and least?
The +: sound, large gauge, input / output XLR (3 hot on my own, I do not know if it is for all, attention)

le-: the breath, but hey, I expected and it is not very young at the back, there are connections for noise reduction (which I do not) but the electronic breath more than the band itself (I use the GP9 at 38cm / s). Otherwise, it is heavy and somewhat bulky but it is part of its charm.

- Have you tried many other models before buying it?
I had the opportunity to work with a Tascam TSR8 but I do not particularly looking to buy a VCR when I fell over, I seized the opportunity.

- How would you rate the quality / price?
For 5000Fr (€ 100 repair), I'm pretty happy, it's the sound I expected.

- With experience, you do again this choice? ...
unless you find a stud at the same price, yes
while waiting for the budget, I am satisfied

I used one for years MX5050 8 track. Multitrack 1 / 2 inch. Inputs and outputs on XLR symtriques. 38 or 19 cm / sec. Rglages indpendants of prmagntisation, HF and LF compensation, level of recording and playback on the head of sync and playback. I bought it in 1987 and I sold it in 1992. He worked hard for 5 years trs. I made my arms in sync with an Atari ST1040. Silent sound excellent. It was blowing but not too much thanks 4 pairs of dbx150. The sound coming out n'tait not the same as the one entered. C'tait particulirement sensitive at low frequencies. In short, a machine that had the characters and ds when required to be understood and cuddly. Sr Although I largely prfre my current Dtr. However, sometimes when j'prouve difficulties of playing a bass, I think that with 5050, would sound a dj. But it's not just the bass in for a title and 23 other tracks, I am a winner.