Journal Entry 4 Who Owns Who?

I once heard it said that one does not own a boat, but a boats owns you. That can be said of vintage gear too. In the case of the Echoplex, most definitely. We are caretakers of these antiques just as much as we are enthusiasts. Like being friends with someone much older than you. Or, perhaps you are an original owner and still have your prized echo and maybe your muscle car from high school too. Whatever the situation, we have to be careful with these machines during their time with us. There are many lessons to be learned from caring for vintage gear.

Keep them moving. Playing your Echoplex regularly is the best way to ensure that it is at its best. If you are not using it regularly, then run your echo now and then during the year. Just like people, a sedentary machine will develop health problems due to lack of use. Monthly run time will help keep the belt from hardening. It will also keep the tape moving freely. Capacitors in power supplies always appreciate some juice. The pinch roller will also benefit a bit of pressure from the turning capstan.

If you are putting one into storage though, remove the tape and tension pad spring. Clean the heads very well. If you do not have an outer road case, then place the Echoplex into a large plastic bag and wrap it up. Put the wrapped machine in a carboard box and in the box drop a few silica gel packets to control moisture. Close up the box flaps and store in a cool and dry place. If you are an experienced owner, then remove the belt and rubber roller too. 

Nothing too philosophical this time, just wanted to share this.

Thanks for reading this

Bart