harold (01/05/83)
#N:hp-pcd:2300004:000:1505 hp-pcd!harold Jan 5 09:40:00 1983 Without going into any theoretical details, I want to share an experience I have recently had with a Jet Sounds auto- reverse car cassette player. Granted, this is a cheap unit, etc., etc. But, for what it is worth, here is my experience.. After MUCH use (three years in two different cars) with only cleaning of the head, capstan, and pinch roller, I started to hear a **LOT** of noise (pops, hisses, and bass distortion) coming out of my speakers. After checking the wiring and re- cleaning everything I could think of, there was no improvement in the situation. In despair, I resigned myself to having to wait until I could afford a GOOD car system with new speakers. But wait!! Along comes the net discussion of head magnetization. I went out and bout the TDK demagnetization cassette. It is a self contained, battery operated unit which is housed in a cassette case. I used it, as per instructions, with excellent results; I now have the same mediocre system I was used to before. (I am still looking forward to when I can afford a GOOD system!) My conclusions: 1) Yes, head magnetization is a real problem which dramatically affected the performance of my particular deck. 2) Yes, demagnetization worked for me. 3) Yes, I would recommend that others demagnetize their tape heads when all else fails. Observation: Why would a well-respected company like TDK produce a demagnetizer unit if it were not helpful (and recommended?). May good listening always be with us.. Harold