THE ROLLING STONES L70167 Reel Let Bleed London Stereo Press To

( Brand: The Rolling Stones ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: L70167 ), ( Model: LONDON L70167 ), ( Type: Tape Reel )

Review THE ROLLING STONES Reel to Let It Bleed London Stereo Tested 1st Press

The **Rolling Stones L70167 Reel-to-Reel Tape Deck**, a reissue of their legendary **Let It Bleed London Stereo Press** model, is a meticulously crafted time capsule of analog warmth and musical authenticity, designed for audiophiles and music enthusiasts who demand nothing less than perfection. This iconic tape recorder, originally released in the late 1960s during the height of the Rolling Stones creative peak, embodies the raw, unfiltered energy of the era, capturing sound with a depth and richness that digital formats can only aspire to replicate. The L70167 is a **stereo reel-to-reel** machine, built with a **dual-capstan design** that ensures precise synchronization between the two channels, delivering a balanced, immersive listening experience that brings live performances to life with breathtaking fidelity. Its **London Stereo Press** variant is particularly sought after for its superior tape path engineering, which minimizes flutter and wow, allowing for near-flawless playback of both original recordings and home-made mixes. The deck features a **high-quality, self-contained motor** that drives the tape at a consistent **7.5 ips (inches per second)**, a speed that was standard for professional recording in the era, offering a warm, slightly compressed sound signature that enhances the dynamic range of vocals and instruments alike. The **wooden cabinet**, often finished in a rich, matte black or natural oak, exudes a vintage charm while housing a robust internal framework that includes a **precision-ground tape guide system** and **low-mass heads** for optimal signal transfer. The control panel is a study in mid-century modern design, with **chrome-plated knobs and switches** that provide tactile feedback, including a **separate pitch control** for fine-tuning playback speed, a **high/low pass filter** for adjusting tone, and a **dual-tracking system** that allows for layered recordings a feature that was revolutionary at the time and remains a favorite among musicians. Whether used to play back the original tapes of *Let It Bleed*, *Sticky Fingers*, or *Exile on Main St.*, or to capture fresh performances with the same authenticity, the L70167 is more than just a tape deck; it is a **musical instrument** that honors the craftsmanship of its era while inviting modern users to experience the magic of analog recording firsthand. For those who appreciate the artistry of the Rolling Stones and the timeless allure of vintage audio technology, this machine is a must-have, blending heritage, innovation, and unparalleled sound quality into a single, unforgettable listening experience.

### **Pros and Cons of buying a Rolling Stones L70167 Reel-to-Reel Tape Deck (Let Bleed London Stereo Press)**

#### **Pros**

1. **Iconic Brand and Legacy** The Rolling Stones are one of the most influential bands in music history, and owning a tape deck associated with them adds prestige and nostalgia. The "Let Bleed" model is particularly significant, as it was used during the band s peak era.

2. **High-Quality Audio Performance** The L70167 is a professional-grade reel-to-reel tape deck, known for its robust construction and reliable performance. It uses high-quality tape (London Stereo Press) and features a strong motor, ensuring smooth operation and minimal dropout.

3. **Durability and Build Quality** The deck is built to last, with a sturdy metal chassis and solid components. Unlike many vintage or budget tape decks, it is less prone to mechanical failure over time, making it a long-term investment for serious audiophiles or musicians.

4. **Versatility in Use** Beyond just playback, this deck can record high-quality analog audio, making it useful for musicians, podcasters, or audio engineers who value warm, analog sound. The London Stereo Press tape is known for its balanced frequency response and low noise.

5. **Collectible and Investment Potential** As a limited-edition or special-release model, the L70167 could appreciate in value over time, especially if the Rolling Stones continue to be a cultural icon. Collectors and vintage audio enthusiasts may seek out such items.

6. **Aesthetic and Cultural Appeal** The design is bold and rock-and-roll, fitting well in a music studio, home audio setup, or as a statement piece for fans of the band. The "Let Bleed" reference ties directly to the band s 1969 album, adding historical significance.

7. **Compatibility with Modern Equipment** While primarily an analog device, the L70167 can be integrated into modern setups with the right interfaces (e.g., USB adapters, digital-to-analog converters). This makes it accessible for both purists and those who want to blend analog and digital workflows.

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#### **Cons**

1. **High Cost** As a limited-edition or special-release item, the L70167 is likely to be expensive, especially if it s in pristine condition. The price may exceed that of standard reel-to-reel decks, making it a significant financial commitment.

2. **Maintenance Requirements** Reel-to-reel tape decks require regular maintenance, including head cleaning, capstan and pinch-roll adjustments, and tape cleaning. Neglecting these can lead to poor audio quality or mechanical failure. This adds ongoing costs and effort.

3. **Tape Dependency** Unlike digital systems, the L70167 relies on physical tape, which is susceptible to degradation over time (e.g., tape stretch, oxidation). Replacing or finding compatible tape can be costly and inconvenient.

4. **Learning Curve** Operating a reel-to-reel deck effectively requires some skill, particularly in threading, speed control, and recording techniques. Beginners may struggle with basic functions like playback or recording without guidance.

5. **Limited Portability** The deck is not designed for on-the-go use. It s a stationary piece of equipment, which may be a drawback for musicians or podcasters who need mobility.

6. **Market Availability and Scarcity** Due to its association with the Rolling Stones and the "Let Bleed" release, the L70167 may be difficult to find in stock. Prices could be inflated due to demand, and official resale channels may not always be available.

7. **Digital Alternatives Exist** For casual users, digital recorders or DAWs (Digital Audio Workstations) offer more convenience, editing flexibility, and lower upfront costs. The L70167 is a niche purchase best suited for audiophiles or collectors.

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### **Conclusion**

The Rolling Stones L70167 reel-to-reel tape deck is a remarkable piece of equipment for those who appreciate analog audio, collectibles, or the legacy of the band. It offers superior build quality, audio performance, and cultural significance, making it a standout choice for serious musicians, audio enthusiasts, or collectors. However, its high cost, maintenance needs, and limited practicality for non-professional users must be carefully considered.

If you are a dedicated audiophile, a fan of the Rolling Stones, or someone who values the warmth and character of analog recording, the L70167 is an excellent investment. For casual users or those prioritizing convenience and digital flexibility, it may not be the best fit.

### **Recommendation**

- You are a musician, producer, or audio engineer who values analog recording.

- You are a collector or fan of the Rolling Stones and want a piece of music history.

- You are willing to invest in maintenance and have the space for a stationary device.

- You appreciate the aesthetic and cultural significance of the deck.

- You are on a tight budget or looking for a more affordable alternative.

- You prioritize portability or digital workflows over analog.

- You lack experience with reel-to-reel tape decks and are unwilling to learn maintenance.

- You do not have a dedicated space for the equipment.

For most casual listeners or digital-first users, a high-quality digital recorder or a more affordable vintage reel-to-reel deck might be a better choice. However, for the right buyer, the L70167 is a legendary purchase that combines artistry, technology, and rock n roll heritage.

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part #: l70167 price

• $89.99

specifications reeltapevintagego:

• brand: The Rolling Stones
• mpn: L70167
• model: London L70167
• type: Tape Reel

general reeltapevintagego:

• condition: Used
• Vintage Electronics > Vintage Audio Video > Reel-to-Reel Tape Recorders

offer reeltapevintagego:

• quantity: 1
• options: Ship-to-home
• best offers: True
• sold: 0
• availability: In Stock
• started: May 9, 2026

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• class: Standard
• cost: $9.14

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• # reviews: 20
• rating: 93.3%
• city: Boerne, Texas

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