Im not really informed on the tascam portastudios, but do i need a special tape to be able to record the 4 tracks??
This is probably a retarded question but Im really confused for some reason.

on mine you need blank tape cause it records on the two side at the same time. (tascam porta03)

As I recall, you wanna try to use hi bias type 2 tapes and record as fast as possible to get the best results.

ok thanks for the advice ill look into a tape

46/60 Crhome position (II) are the best. 90 if you don't find the other 2...
it's a matter of "phisical effort" by the recorder...

Yeah, 60 minute type 2 cassettes work best. Maxell XL-II's or TDK SA work just fine. I've only got six or seven 60 minute cassettes!! Have to make them last!! 90 min Maxell and TDK type 2's are readily available on eBay. Finding 60 min cassettes may take some time.

best tapes IMO, sometimes you can find 5-packs of them at MARSH supermarket

what model tascam do you have?

if your 4-track has dolbys you can blast your signal at +10 db higher and it sounds good and loud, less hiss

6 months ago someone sold me about 10 90-mins for about $10. That was a good day!

I dont have the tascam yet but i was looking at the 424. Is there a better model for just recording my sequences and maybe an extra instrument? really only need 2 main inputs.
thanks for all the guidance guys. im looking into the tapes right now. hopefully get a bulk of them.

I have a marantz for sampling from but not great for recording to.

I use a Tascam 488 Mk I. I managed to convince a friend to sell it to me for $15. Visually, a screw is missing on the bottom panel, there is some sticker residue on the bottom directly underneath the operation panel (play, stop, and ff buttons). It's well used but most importantly, it works. Plus, I found a cheap source for capstan belts on eBay so you can bet that I'm going to stock up on those. My plan is to mixdown and master to VHS because I've been hearing some great production on here with that same method.

With a little TLC, some spit shine, and a good degaussing, the 488 should be up and running. I don't trust it enough to use it full time. I use the VS-840 for everyday stuff which is a pain. I'm trying to get a hold of one those old school Panasonic boom boxes with the multi-Aux side panels for doing some demos and straight to tape shit.

damn, i used to use a sony (little) boombox to record indie stuff in the '90s, now i left it in italy, i miss that, was straight and direct...

I just got an Akai reel-to-reel today. I can't remember the last time I was so excited about gear.

congrats what model is your AKAI ?
how do you like it so far?

it's a Roberts 800x, but it died 4 hours after I bought it.