Do you need a tape and a takeup reel for a revox to work

[maxiewaxie]

I bought a revox b77 reel to reel tape deck. I do not have a tape or rewind reel.
When I push the tape button or the reverse and forward button the spool wheel
turns until I let go of the button. Is this because there is no tape or rewind reel?

 

[Pyree]

This topic has been moved from the section Opinions and Experiences to section Home Audio by Pyree

 

[soundguruman]

The tape has to be in the transport, and the tape has to be tensioned, before the motors will stay ON.