Audiotape, especially tape produced in the 1970s and 1980s, breaks down as the oxide coating separates from the tape. This problem is especially prominent in AMPEX, 3M, and AGFA tapes. Most people have set their audiotapes aside in favor of more modern formats, but it is possible to save the tapes. In order to digitize them, it may be necessary to "bake" them to re-glue the oxide layer to the tape. Although this might sound like an intensive process, it's actually not that difficult when you use a food dehydrator to get the job done.
Instructions
Use a Food Dehydrator to Restore Audio Tapes
1. Take the drying racks out of the dehydrator and wash them thoroughly to remove any food particles that may be baked on. Dry the racks to make sure that there is no moisture remaining. Replace the racks.
2. Plug in the dehydrator and set the temperature from 130 degrees to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Allow the dehydrator to warm up to the designated temperature before proceeding.
3. Set the tapes that need to be restored onto the dehydrator's drying racks. Do not layer the tapes on top of one another and be sure to allow room between the tapes for the hot air to flow. If needed, use as many of the dehydrator's racks as are available. If there are thick, multi-track tapes that need to be restored, take out some of the drying racks to make room for them. Close the dehydrator.
4. Set the timer on the dehydrator, if it has one, for eight hours. If the dehydrator does not have a timer, make sure that you make note of when the tapes will be done and turn the dehydrator off after eight hours.
5. Allow the tapes to cool at room temperature for at least two hours. It is best not to handle the tapes until they have cooled down completely.
Tags: drying racks, Audio Tapes, Dehydrator Restore, Dehydrator Restore Audio, eight hours