FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
We restore and sell only MCI JH-24 and JH-110B/C models. They are available in a wide range of sizes and formats, ranging from 2-track 1/4" to 24-track 2".
MCI tape machines are very unassuming! They're simplistic in their design and sound fantastic. Haven't heard one? We'll bet that you have! MCI tape machines have been used to make thousands of great records. Pick up almost any record made in the 70s or 80s and it was likely made on an MCI console or with an MCI tape machine - Eric Clapton, Fleetwood Mac, Criteria Recording, The Bee Gees, Muscle Shoals Sound, The Rolling Stones are just a few of the many who have made great music on MCIs!
We achieve the same level of restoration for each machine by tearing the machines completely down to the frame, and re-assembling as each Molex connector and other stress points are resoldered. This takes place in the power supply, transport and audio boards. Roughly 500 solder points and 80 IC chips are reworked, re-soldered or cleaned... and that’s on the two track machines. The total number of solder points and connectors multiplies quickly as tracks are added.
All of this happens before the machine is even turned on. Everything is resoldered to help ensure future problems are headed off at the pass.
After that, every transport adjustment is made - lifters, brakes, tensions, etc. Then on to the audio where all audio channels are aligned at each speed. Key capacitors get replaced, like the capacitor that controls the accuracy of the counter. We recap key capacitors on the audio cards as well.
After all of that we burn them in and stress test each machine by running through multiple alignments so no other issues pop up before they go out the door. If there should be an issue, every machine comes with a six month warranty and our techs can help via Zoom.
Awesome! We are only looking for MCI JH-24 and 110B/C models. If you've got one that you are trying to part with, send us an email with photos, your location, and a detailed description and let's talk!
We do not repair machines or sell parts that are not offered on our website. However, we can offer a full refurbish on your current MCI Machine, or do a trade in for your machine for one of our Mara Machines. If you're interested in selling your machine to us, send us an email with photos, a description, and your location and we can talk.
We only work on MCI JH-24s and JH-110s. Please do not contact us regarding other tape machines.
We work with trusted crating companies to ensure your machine arrives on time in the best possible condition. We've shipped our machines all over the world, just contact us if you think there might be an issue! Take a look at our Machines page to view dimensions and weights.
If you're in Nashville or within driving distance, you can also come to our shop to pick your machine up, free of charge.
No biggie! We offer lifetime tech support with all of our machines in addition to a 6-month warranty. We can hop on Zoom and walk you through any maintenance issues or ship out parts in case you need a replacement. We'll do our best to make this a fun experience and teach you some things about your machine along the way. (Standard shop rates may apply)
We've found that it's much easier and quicker to troubleshoot with a video component involved so we utilize Zoom for this reason.
We do not sell tape or MRLs, we do have awesome accessories and parts pages. Check them out! Occasionally we have editing blocks in stock, email us to find out.
We've got an app for that! Our tape machine alignment app, MaraTapeCal, is built with Mara Machines customers in mind, but will help you perform any tape machine alignment! We also ship our machines out with detailed video guides and manuals so you will be set up with all the tools you need to perform routine maintenance.
If you're in Nashville and want to check out the shop, send us an email and we can set up a tour! We also offer a Tape Camp twice a year geared toward analog tape enthusiasts to teach people different techniques and develop a community. Our annual Recording Summit is a great way to learn about all aspects of the recording industry!
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