Mastering the Art of Tape Calibration: Tips and Tricks from Industry Pros

Audio & Music

The use of tape machines in the music industry may seem like a thing of the past. However, it still holds a special place in the hearts of many audio professionals. The warm, analog sound that only tape can produce is still highly sought after, but to achieve that sound, one must first master the art of tape calibration.

​Calibrating a tape machine may seem daunting, but it can be a breeze with industry pros' tips and tricks. The first and most crucial step is to calibrate the output side of the tape machine first. This is because if someone calls you to calibrate your tape machine, they likely want to transfer over the tape and not necessarily record anything new.

To calibrate the output, use a Magnetic Reference Laboratories (MRL) tape that has been scientifically measured to be exact from an output standpoint. This tape has four test tones that have been recorded and measured precisely. Use these test tones to adjust the output level of the tape machine to match the MRL tape.

​​When calibrating the tape machine, it's essential to remember that each track on the tape is an independent entity. This means specific channels on the device can be over-biased while others are calibrated straight up. To avoid this, write the level number on your track sheet if you're recording the tape so that the machine can be calibrated accordingly.

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​Understanding the different EQ settings needed for different tape speeds is also essential. For example, if you're running at 30 inches per second, you'll need to adjust the high-speed EQ. Run a 10k tone through the machine and adjust it up or down to match.

Calibrating a tape machine may seem tedious, but it's essential for achieving the best sound possible. Whether you're working in a studio that runs tape all the time or just occasionally, you'll need to calibrate the machine for every session. The trick is to learn the process, find the appropriate settings, and remember how to adjust them.
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​​When plugging in external equipment, such as a DAW, verify the voltage to ensure it matches the interface output. This will ensure that the gain for the recording head is calibrated correctly.

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​In conclusion, mastering the art of tape calibration takes time, patience, and practice. But with the right tips and tricks from industry pros, you'll be able to achieve the warm, analog sound that only tape can provide. Remember to calibrate the output side first, write the level number on your track sheet, understand the different EQ settings, and verify the voltage when plugging in external equipment. Follow these steps, and you'll be well on becoming a tape calibration master.

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Aaron Buyea
Multi-certified Audio Engineer Aaron Buyea leads this operation with nearly a decade and a half of entertainment industry experience. Refined Melody's founder brings insights into understanding the inner workings of the entertainment industry, the ability to identify the issues the industry is facing today, and the ability to build solutions that transcend.​