Virtually no static and dirty discs, especially if one is using an acrylic platter. Look into the Funk Firm Acromat if you’re thinking of an alternative.

Acrylic platter is definitely an upgrade for the thinner aluminium platters. More inert, more neutral sounding and less ringing and static. Not using a mat is a bonus too.

I’ve had somewhat of a tumultuous relationship with reel to reel; my first Pioneer RT-707 didn’t record, my Otari MX-5050 snapped more tapes than a turtle, and my next few decks were poorly maintained.

In the next few years I avoided getting back into the format, until i saw this Denon DH-710S and bit the bullet one last time. I’m glad I did. The sound of analogue tape is hard to describe - big, luscious and velvety smooth - without a hint of sluggishness.