Tape Op's original subtitle still probably says it best: The Creative Music Recording Magazine. Tape Op is about learning how to make great recordings with whatever tools you have access to. They interview engineers, producers and musicians who are making great recordings, sitting down and talk with them at length and then run long, in-depth interviews. The reader becomes, in essence, the "tape op" hanging out in the studio and learning the trade from the seasoned vets working in the studio.
Unlike most recording magazines, Tape Op's primary focus is not on reviewing equipment. They want to discuss making art.
The February/March '23 issue includes pieces on:
- Jerry Harrison—Talking Heads, Modern Lovers, Live, No Doubt
- Eric "ET" Thorngren—Robert Palmer, Talking Heads, Sugar Hill
- Marta Salogni—Depeche Mode, Bjork, Animal Collective
- Russ Gary—Creedence, CSN&Y, Wally Heider's
- Isabelle Banos—Caveboy, soundtracks, Chez Ballsy
- Track or Stem? —Let's learn the right words
- Blondie Against the Odds 1974-1982—With Steve Rosenthal & Michael Graves
- In Memoriam—Don Lewis & Herb Deutch
- Gear Reviews
