Cassette Decks: Purchasing

Cassette decks have two basic functions: recording and playback. Each function requires specific features, especially when it relates to a church sound system.

The most important [recording] feature to look for is the auto-reverse function.

Recording Features

Recording deck features are very important. The most important feature to look for is the auto-reverse function. This allows the tape to automatically switch to the "B" side of the tape without the need for the operator to "stare and wait." More importantly, the type of auto-reverse should be a quick, optical auto-reverse design. This feature allows the machine electronics to sense when the tape oxide material runs out and quickly switches to the other side. Many auto-reverse designs will wait until the leader runs out and the tension increases enough to trigger the auto-reverse function. By that time, you will have missed a considerable amount of sermon, music or announcements.

Another nice feature for many churches is some type of automatic record level control. This helps minimize the need for somebody to be carefully monitoring and adjusting the record level. There is a large dynamic range between the music and the speech. If the record level is adjusted for a good level with speech, the tape will probably get very distorted during the music if no one turns the record level down. Some cassette decks have a simple automatic level circuit to do this. There are also processors which can be used with the cassette deck that provide much better control than just the simple automatic level control. If your church values a good recording, please call us for advice on how to improve your recording.

Misc. Features

Wired remote controls are nice to have. With this feature you can attach the remote control to the mixing console and operate the cassette transport functions such as play, record, fast-forward and rewind without having to reach for the cassette deck itself. This also comes in handy when a second person is operating the tape track cues.

The transport controls on the front of the cassette deck should be electronic solenoid controls and not mechanical switches. Make sure that you listen to how noisy the controls are when in operation if your deck is in the worship area.

PITCH CONTROL allows the operator to adjust the speed of the tape...

Playback Features

Playback seems relatively straightforward. But one feature is often overlooked in consumer decks that should be included in a machine for use in church sound systems. Pitch control allows the operator to adjust the speed of the tape, which, in turn, raises or lowers the overall pitch of the music. This is very important when playing background tracks along with other music instruments. If the tape was recorded on a machine that "ran a little fast," the music will be flat compared to a piano that has been properly tuned. Or, a tape that is "on pitch" will no doubt be incompatible with a piano that is slightly out of tune. Would you rather adjust a pitch control knob or retune the piano ten minutes before the service begins?!!

A dual-well cassette deck can provide high-speed duplication or auto-dubbing. This is useful for making one or two copies of the recording.

Figure 1 - Twin Deck

Twin Deck

If you use background music trax for special music on a regular basis and you wish to record the entire service, you will need two separate decks. A dual-transport deck is not sufficient unless there are separate inputs and outputs for each cassette transport. This type of machine shown in Figure 1 will usually be referred to as a twin deck. A twin deck can help solve a space problem since you get two decks in the space of one.

Cassette decks have two basic functions: recording and playback. Each function requires specific features.

by Travis Ludwig © 1996 Internet Sound Institute (www.soundinstitute.com). This article is for personal use only. Any commercial reproduction is not permitted without permission. To obtain permission, contact ISI at hopi@soundinstitute.com

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