OK folks, the moment you (and I) have been waiting for...
Success! My CR-7A was repaired to my satisfaction, including keeping it completely scar free (yes, I'm neurotic about my equipment being scratch free). I checked it out in his shop, and all functions were working as they should be. Additionally, he was able to get the cassette that was stuck inside out without any damage to it or the machine (I really didn't think that would be a problem, but thought I'd mention it anyway). In fact, he checked out the music, correctly identifying it as a Yes concert...telling me how great the recording sounded. Of course I had to mention that to you guys...because when I said thank you, he looked at me funny, so I told him I recorded it. He was floored, commenting that he thought I recorded it off the radio. He was blown away, asking me what I used and how I did it. Fun times!
Anyway, the moral of the story is, he's nice, fair and did a good job in a timely fashion. His name is Juan. He is familiar with Herman, and can't understand why he has such a long wait time to repair the decks. I will use him again for other things that I need repaired, and recommend him for those who live in the northeast, or doesn't mind shipping. Please mention my name (Joel), I'd like him to know that I recommended you if you choose to use him. Additionally, and very notable, he apparently buys used units, brings them up to spec, and sells them. He has a beautiful Nak deck that he showed me that he will be working on when he finishes up with his work load, and then selling. I asked him to let me know when it's repaired so I can tell others (you guys). He also works on reel to reels, amps, pre amps, instrument amplifiers, etc.
As a point of interest: He charges a $20 fee to look at the item, and will apply that fee to the repair should you decide to have him repair it after he gives you the estimate. Mine cost me under $200, so I'm a happy camper.
His info is:
Stereo Repair World
2050 New York Ave.
Huntington Station, NY 11746
(631) 697-5850
PS: When I was there bringing in the deck, he had an old acoustic guitar he just happened to have...not a common thing for him. I was looking for a beater, and ended up buying it. Cheap! Well, after cleaning it up and doing a few adjustments, I have a great acoustic that I can turn around for between $300 - $350 if I wanted to. OK, I won't beat on it, because it's in amazing shape and sounds great, but I paid $30 for it...so he clearly isn't looking things up and trying to gouge his customers. Like I said, he's a nice, fair guy.