The A80, in either the VU or RC version, really has little value today
in the digital world, as the noise floor is really too high. Especially
in the VU version, the wiring from the heads travels a fairly long
distance, and feeds a single ended preamp.

The transport, on the other hand, is lovely and gentle. With 1/2" mods,
and newer electronics, you would have a similar machine to that used by
several mastering facilities. But we're talking about a pretty expensive
set of issues, so my recommendation would be no, unless you're really
enamored of the idea, and have a few bucks to spend.

matt t. wrote:
I have some questions about a 1" Studer A80 layback deck. It is an 8
channel chassis loaded with 3 channels of electronics. It runs at 9.5
ips and is in very good condition. Circa 1985. Low hrs.

What would it's current value, as is, be?

What would the cost be to convert it to an audio mastering deck? (I
assume 1/2 inch would be best). From what I understand it would need
new guides, heads, and motor.

Thanks for any advice.

Matt Talbott

PS: I will have a pair of Tannoy FSMs for sale soon if anyone is
interested. $1900. Excellent condition. These are the big 2x15
monitors with the 15" sub and 15" duel concentric.

--
Stephen Anderson

~At the end of the day, it's all about
the music