There are numerous sources of alignment tapes available on the market.

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Based on our experience and feedback from customers/studios around the world, there are no trustworthy reliable sources that can be used as a reference etalon.

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We have tested over 30 pcs of alignment tapes - in the past 15 years of production we've seen every tape has an azimuth differ substantially (some even up to +/- 60 deg!), the flux level dropped by 25%, tones level unstable.

 

No wonder why some users complaining about a quality of recorded tapes, just because of a "tape producer" trust to whatever alignment tape and had no idea that levels are off, and some users never even bother to align their machines (but that's another subject).

 

There is the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) Standard 94, "Magnetic Tape Sound Recording and Reproducing Systems" with parts 2 "CALIBRATION TAPES":

 

- "Tape for making adjustment and comparative assessments of the reproducing performance of both professional and domestic magnetic tape recording/reproducing equipment."

 

- "Each standard calibration tape shall have at least the following sections:

1) reference [fluxivity], 2) azimuth, and 3) amplitude/frequency response."

 

For instance, for speed 15 ips, requirements for the alignment tape: 

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- Reference flux level (nWb/m), tolerance +/-5%

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- Signal at reference frequency (1kHz), distortion up to 1%

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- Level fluctuation up to 10kHz - <0.5dB; over 10kHz - < 1dB

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- Recording angle of 90 deg +/-1` (Azimuth about 0 deg)

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We have developed a process of measuring and recording to meet all required by standard (see above) conditions.

 

An original methodology based on theories of measuring variable magnetic flux level, tone signals level and azimuth.

 

Utilizing our proprietary measuring instruments, developed based on the methodology at AMPEX, alongside cutting-edge measurement devices (deviation = 0.01% of frequencies and magnetic flux level) we ensure the utmost precision.

 

To ensure recording and quality control, we employ special full-size heads developed by FluxMagnetics.

 

All these efforts culminate in achieving maximum accuracy of magnetic flux (including flux level, azimuth, and equalization) recorded onto magnetic tape, fully compliant with the requirements of the international standard IEC 94-2.

 

As an audiophile guy I can really hear a benefit of the correct azimuth alignment - precise calibration would give you a pleasure of better sound stage, details, space.

 

Next topic we can do about a fringing effect (low frequencies playback abnormal effect). That will be an interesting subject.

 

Please contact ATR Service anytime if questions.