Lyrec Frida - another look

This is a more detailed discussion of that gorgeous machine.
I try to be objective and let the viewer know my complete impressions, not just one sided view. I am very happy to have it in my collection, and I cautiously recommend it to any serious collector or reel-to-reel aficionado.
Please watch the demo of the quirk at the very end. No... I did not put it there on purpose, I simply forgot along the way. :)

[@yjwu5676]

I also need the raising handle and the cute red carring case: nearly impossile to find. This machine use transparent belt to transfer power from motor to capstan wheel so switch it on/off occacinally might help preventing the belt from uneven stretch.

[@user-px7lo1ov4m]

Good review. A couple of comments. Curt Palme here in British Columbia is working on maintaining my Lyrec Fridas. I have a large inventory of spare parts. The headblock can be switched although it does involve opening the machine. I can change mine in about ten minutes. The model shown here is a Mk I and used both Woelke heads. Later models used AMB heads for record and play and Woelke for erase. I have a stock of spare heads but the AMBs are very pricey. I find the Frida produce superb recordings and use them exclusively for my master tape duplication service.

[@Foxbat9000]

Hi Harold, you and I communicated in the past, so yes, I am aware of your installation using the TR-55's as the sources... it is very impressive, you sent me some pictures. I have not seen those machines live. I know about Curt... it is a bit far, but definitely a great resource when or if the service is needed. Fortunately, at least at this stage, I don't need to worry about the heads, as they are in nearly new condition with almost no wear.
But it sounds like I should start taking my Frida more often for a ride. :)

[@ahmeadramadhan2588]

Marvelous machine with a compact size.

[@sylvaind9086]

Wow! I'ts like new!😮

[@szvencel]

I understand you don't use it every day , but how do you like its sound (both playback and record)?

[@Foxbat9000]

I have to say that I liked the sound this time... perhaps it was allowed to warm up longer, but that tape sounded heavenly. I never recorded on it, sorry. So I am going to try it more, letting it warm up for at least 30 minutes.

[@szvencel]

@@Foxbat9000 It sounded very-very good through your video. Perhaps you should also try recording with it.

[@Runco990]

I do love the design of that machine. But I'd agree about it being "fragile". I don't use my Nagara VPR-5 much either. It is a conversation piece.

[@Foxbat9000]

I hope it only looks delicate, as Lyrec has strong professional roots and some of this machine's features speak clearly of its application.

[@organfairy]

Does it only brake using the motors? The platters kept running for very long after you switched it off which to me seems like it doesn't have traditional brakes.

[@Foxbat9000]

I am sure you are correct.

[@szvencel]

It does have breaks on both reel print motors.

[@Foxbat9000]

@@szvencel That is interesting, because with the machine turned OFF there is no resistance to rotating. I will look at the service manual.

[@szvencel]

@@Foxbat9000 There's a rather heavy copper or brass cylinder on the shaft of the print motors and you can find a metal belt around that which is being pulled backwards (fastened) with a solenoid.Maybe it is not as strong as on other R2R machines, but I am not an expert on any machine. I've just seen these in the Frida. It would be interesting to know why some Fridas are noisier while others (like yours) is quite silent.

[@szvencel]

May I ask what is the music?

[@Foxbat9000]

It is a tape from International Phonograph Inc, Joe Policastro Vibes Quartet. He plays the double bass and often uses bow.

[@szvencel]

@@Foxbat9000 Thank you! Ver nice music. Is it the 'Direct Copy of the Master' version?

[@Foxbat9000]

@@szvencel Yes, it is. It is one of their best tapes. I have about 50 of their tapes.