[ARSCLIST] Looking for Otari reel to reel

[Peter Hirsch <punto@xxxxxxxx>]

I am overseeing a project that will involve cataloging a fairly large
amount of audio and video material. There are at least a couple hundred
open reel 7 and 10 inch tapes that will have to be listened to (at least
partially) at some point in the process and we are in the market for a
suitable deck. The Otari MX-5050 MKIV (or something close to in make)
has been recommended to me, but I am having difficulty tracking one
down. I can't tell for sure if this item is no longer made, but it
doesn't appear to be marketed if it is still in production. E-bay has a
few, but seem to be only for the intrepid do-it-yourselfer (no guarantee
that anything will happen, other than the power comes on when you push
the switch) and the $50-100 price range that most are in makes me a bit
dubious. We would be OK with a unit that might need some work if the
nature of the likely repairs is spelled out in advance of purchase.

Any Otari leads or suggested equivalents would be appreciated.

Thanks,

Peter Hirsch
New York Public Library