just getting back into r2r need help please!

[audiofreak]

As ststed above getting back into r2r. Am a vintage analog nut and picked up a pioneer rt 707. will b recording thru a original dbx-3bx on high current parasound anp and tube pre. Now haveing said that need recomendations on blank tape-brand, bias ect. Want very good recordings or why bother-not a millioneer but don't want junk. Also need sources to buy. Any suggustions would be appreated! Also need a take up reel. Prefer new tape if I can afford. Of old new stock. The unit is marked at 19 and 9.5 speed which is best for quality? Thanks in advance! Oh btw I'm a new member here.

[vinyldavid]

19cmps for best sound with that machine.

Check out www.usrecordingmedia.com. BASF LPR35 would be a good choice with that deck. Enjoy it-it's a great one.

[toddbailey]

Yes 7 1/2 ips (19 cm /s) will give you a good balance of freq response, s/n and playback duration. But 15 ips (38 cm/s) on 1/2 track is a quite amazing listening experience.
With 7 inch reels you don't want to go any longer than 1800 ft (1 mil) some will protest and insist 1200 ft is the best for optimum sound quality. Your mileage may vary.
While US Recording Media has a good selection of tapes, reels and misc. recording supplies, I find their prices a bit on the spendy side. If you're not a millionaire, like myself, you can find good prices on tape off craigs list or Ebay. However If I had a rich wife or more Money, or both I'd probably buy new media. For now, I'd stick with the Maxell brand as many have reported issues with select other brands such as Ampex, Sony, TDK and Scotch- poor lubrication or stickiness with oxide/back coating shedding. I've been lucky so far, I've only had one tape do the mission impossible thing and self destruct during playback. Then I learned about baking tapes to remove excess moisture and reactivate the binders. But I digress
My favourite types include UD or LNE. You also might find the addition of dolby or a dbx noise reduction system beneficial. Keep in mind 3 3/4 has issues with frequency response, s/n ratios and drop out.