If you are interested:

The Fall 2008 ARSC Journal on "Tape Degradation Factors and Challenges
in Predicting Tape Life" is now available online at:

http://www.richardhess.com/tape/history/HESS_Tape_Degradation_ARSC_Journal_39-2.\
pdf

If you forget that URL, I've posted it on the AES HC website, under
"Magnetic Recording", or just search for "Degradation".

It's a "must read" for anyone needing to play magnetic tapes.

--

Gary Gottlieb
Associate Professor of Audio Production
Faculty Adviser, Audio Engineering Society
http://www.webster.edu/aes
Author, Shaping Sound in the Studio and Beyond & Recording on the Go
Program Coordinator, Audio Production
Webster University

"Hey Rocky, watch me pull a rabbit out of my hat....."