The Otari MX-5050 is one of the most solid and easiest to maintain 8 track machines ever made. All of those Elephant 6 bands worshiped at the alter of the MX-5050. I routinely see these all over the internet for around $500 to $1000 depending on condition
The Tascam TSR-8 is another bulletproof 8 track deck. It's a bit more compact than the Otari and it doesn't have XLR in's and out's, just RCA. But still, it's a fantastic sounding machine and can be had for way less than a $1000
The Fostex R8 is another awesome analog 8 track that can be found for peanuts. Fostex has always been an interesting company in that instead of coming up with original designs they just improve upon the designs of other companies...to great effect too. This may be the best value out there these days.
I strongly prefer working on analog, especially for drums and bass. A lot of the work I've done is with a hybrid setup that includes and 8 or 16 track analog deck synced to a Pro Tools or Digital Performer rig with SMPTE time code. A very flexible way to work. I like to work with limitations as making judicious decisions is a whole lot easier. As much as I like editing with a razor blade, the ease of digital editing is unmistakable. Viva La Analog!
