Recording Capability
Recording capability states whether a tape machine can make recordings as well as play tape.
A playback-only machine cannot record simply because it accepts the same tape format as a recorder. Recording requires the appropriate heads, electronics and input path.
Recording Capability — Reel-to-Reel
For a reel-to-reel machine, recording support allows new material to be recorded in the machine’s supported track format and tape speeds. Some machines are intended only to reproduce existing recordings.
Compare recording support with the required track arrangement, tape width and available inputs. Playback compatibility at a particular speed does not automatically establish recording at that speed. A line output or microphone socket alone is insufficient to describe the complete recording functions.
Recording Capability — Tape Deck
For a cassette deck, recording support lets you transfer an incoming audio signal onto a suitable cassette. On a dual-well machine, one well may record while the other only plays; the capability should be checked for the intended well.
Compare supported recording directions, inputs and tape types for the planned use. A USB connector does not by itself establish recording onto cassette, and a cassette’s record-protection tabs can prevent recording even when the deck supports it. Keep dubbing features separate from basic recording capability.