Tape / Record Loop
Tape Loop counts complete stereo connections that send a signal to a recorder and receive its playback output.
Left and right sockets belong to one stereo loop, not two. A record output without a return input is not a complete loop.
Tape / Record Loop — Preamp
On a preamp, connect Tape/Rec Out to the recorder’s input and the recorder’s output to Tape In. Switch equipment off before connecting. The fixed recording output is unaffected by the preamp’s listening-volume setting, so turning down your speakers does not lower the recording level.
Monitoring the return lets you hear the recorder’s output. Hearing the recording as it is made requires a recorder that supports simultaneous recording and playback.
Compare how many loops you need, how the recording source is selected and how the return is monitored. Controls differ between preamps.
Sources
- Recorder connections and monitoring — Rotel
- Tape monitoring and volume control — NAD Electronics