Way back on page one someone asked about DAT audio quality. The principal sampling rate of 48kHz seems o close to 44.1kHz (an optional rate for all DATs) that the sound ought to be the same, but to my ears, it isn't. Now I can't claim I know whether it is sampling rate alone, better electronics, or lower error correction rates, but 48k DAT does not have the digital glare common to many CD players. The other aspect I like is bass - for some reason it seems more detailed. Searching for tracks is slow and clumsy, so I recommend it be used by folks who want to listen to the whole tape. Many many studios maintined libraries of "safety copies" of 2 track master tapes. DAT was also used instead of analog tape for CD production mastering. Finding a cache of DAT safeties would be fascinatiing!
I have a Fostex D-5 in great condition for sale with manual. It has low hours. D-5 was built by Pioneer but Pioneer never tried to sell the deck in the US market. I will sell it for $300. Shipping is going to be about $60 because it is a heavy deck. Local pickup in Nashville is fine. The D-5 is light tan colored. IIRC I have the rack ears.