A tape player that is not cleaned regularly may reduce sound quality, ruining the cassette, or damaging the tape player. Tape cassettes that are not properly stored in their plastic cases away from contaminants, direct sunlight, and extreme heat may not operate properly and could cause premature failure of the tape player.

If you notice a reduction in sound quality, try a good cassette to see if the tape or the tape player is at fault. If the second cassette results in no improvement in sound quality, try cleaning the tape player head. Remember, tape head cleaning is intended to prevent the build up of oxides and cannot always remove the oxide layer if it is allowed to accumulate. Refer to the section to tape head cleaning for your cassette model player.

Cassettes are subject to wear and the sound quality may degrade over time. Always verify that the cassette tape is in good condition before obtaining service on the tape player.