Tascam 244 - help me fix this please.

[harpdevice]

Hello,
I have a 244 that records normal only on track 2. No sound on 1 and 4. Only low distorted audio on 3.
I have properly followed the directions in the manual for recording and playback.
Does anyone have a procedure on how to narrow down the issue?
I’d like to fix it myself. I have some experience soldering and repairing amps and other equipment.
Thanks!
Kevin

 

[Pierke]

Hi harpdevice. I'm afraid I don't have the technical knowledge to help you, but I hope you get answers. If you know your way around the inside of portastudios, these schematics, service manual and owner's manual may be of help to you or a tech helping you. Good luck!

 

[Paleosonic]

Hi harpdevice, the best way to pin-point the problem(s) is deduction.
Put a low voltage signal on the input and follow the signalpath trough the device using an oscilloscope, voltmeter or simple amplified speaker.
More or less the same way, you can connect one output to an amplifier and inject a signal into the path back from the output towards the heads.
Use this procedure for every channel and compare the results.
Most likely with these old machines, the problem will be in switches and potmeters.
If there is corrosion, don’t spray [magic formula name], replace or open and clean the parts.
Hope this helps,