Fostex E8

The Fostex E8 is an 8-track reel-to-reel tape recorder designed for multitrack recording at professional home studio levels, using 1/4-inch tape at a fixed speed of 15 ips (38 cm/s). It features a 2-head configuration (erase and combined record/playback) and supports up to 10.5-inch NAB or EIA/CINE reels, making it suitable for extended sessions with tapes like 1.5 mil base stock. The most critical technical point of the E-8 is its track density: it squeezes eight tracks onto 1/4" tape. This narrow track width makes noise reduction mandatory.

Transport Features

The E8 includes a robust tape transport with LED tape timer (hours/minutes/seconds), memory locate for two points (Locate 0, Locate 1), auto return/repeat between memories, and auto play on locate. Pitch control allows ±15% variation (coarse/fine knobs) for creative tempo adjustments, while fast wind takes 140 seconds for 2500 ft of tape, with cueing via a head lifter lever.​

Recording and Monitoring

Record up to all 8 tracks simultaneously via per-track Record Track buttons (LED indicators blink in ready mode, solid in record); monitoring switches between input (ALL/INDIV modes) and tape repro. LED bargraph meters (12 segments, -20 to +8 dB, peak reading) calibrate to 320 nWb/m flux at 0 dB; equalization follows IEC-1 standard (+35 μs at 15 ips). Supports footswitch punch in/out and remote control; NR switch toggles internal Dolby C or external.​

Usage Notes

Compatible with rack mounting (via Fostex 9905B adaptor) and meter bridge (MB-16); routine maintenance involves isopropyl alcohol cleaning, demagnetizing every 8 hours, and alignment checks with test tapes like Fostex 9100A. Designed for overdubbing workflows, it warns against adjacent-track bounces due to crosstalk risks.