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[ARSCLIST] Advice on restoring a 1954 audiotape
I'm new to this
list, so perhaps I should introduce myself briefly. I direct the New Media
department at a private university in Guatemala city. We produce
educational video and audio programs that we stream via the Internet or
distribute on DVDs or CDs. So I have many practical questions about
storage formats and conditions, but today I have one specific problem on my
mind.
The President of
the University brought me an audiotape recorded in 1954, to see if we can
rescue its contents (apparently a home recording of an important radio
program). We don't know anything about the length of the program or the
recording spped. It's a "600 ft red oxide on plastic type 651"
reel. The tape and the plastic reel are both covered with hundreds of fuzzy
mold dots. I've taken some pictures:
I have found some
reel-to-reel equipment that we could use to read the tape, however, how do we
get rid of the mold? I've heard two suggestions: one, fearlessly wipe the
mold clean while fast forwarding the tape, using a soft cloth, then read
it. And two, mail the tape to Vidipax in NY, where it should receive the
best treatment. Any suggestions on how I should proceed? I will
really appreciate any help you all can give me!!
Saludos
cordiales,
-Grete
