Condition of '78-'79 era Ampex 406?

[cowtrax]

Hello all... not sure if this is the best forum for this question, but here goes.
A client recently brought in some old 2-track 15 ips masters for me to transfer to digital, and I'm not familiar with the longevity of this particular formulation. (For example, I _do_ know a bit about mid-80's 456 stickyness...)
Has anyone had to "bake" this vintage/formulation, or is it robust?
Thanks!
Mark.
Slaughterhouse Recording Studio

 

[brad]

....

 

[realdynamix]

Wow! coincidence or what, I had just had 17 tunes lifted (77-78), there was some back shedding, but not too bad, we layed the machine on its back to keep an eye on the head and things, gently blowing away the shedding, and watching for idler arm jitter. You can see it slowly start to pulsate, at that point I would gently control it with a little tension. Clean heads and guides completely after each successful pass. Also, you might need some Dolby, or DBX NR's of various types handy. Ours didn't require baking, I hope you have good luck. BTW, TDK-LX, and non-ideal storage conditions...weew... Very lucky.

--Rick

 

[cowtrax]

Thanks folks... I'll probably post when I attempt these transfers with my results.
oh, did I mention there is some *mold* on these reels?!? Yikes!
Mark.