Welcome to issue #70 of Tape Op.

A good question could turn out to be your best teacher. Sometimes one simple query will make you sit down to ponder, discuss, critique and possibly even re-evaluate something in your life. I was recently reminiscing about how my past interns and students had asked me about something that confused them, and often I would need to think a bit harder about what I "knew" or didn't "know."Some of these questions would send me off to my collection of audio reference books or the Internet in search of facts. Other queries would make me look at my recording practices and wonder if I could do a better job than I had been. But being able to admit that you don't know the answer, you might have been wrong or even made assumptions — that's VERY important. Collaborating with others might also change the way you approach a situation. Spending time listening closely to albums you enjoy can pay off handsomely. And carefully considering everyone's questions about music and recording will make you better at your craft. It's all about keeping your mind open to new thoughts and experiences — and learning more along the way.Larry Crane,editor

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