What are the purpose of "Tape" and "Rec" preamp ?

"Tape is the INPUT and "REC" is the OUTPUT.
Same inputs and outputs as "Tape in" and
"Tape out", just labeled/worded differently.

I always remember this way; you record INTO the tape deck
and playback OUT of the tape deck. So just reverse this for
a preamp. The REC would send the signal out to the tape
deck and the TAPE would receive the output signal from the
tape deck.

Usually, but not always, the outputs on preamps are grouped
together (main 1, main 2, tape 1, tape 2, Rec, etc).

What make and model of preamp do you have?

Thanks alot for the advice, mine is a very old audionote m-7 line.
Cheers :)

Usually, but not always, the outputs on preamps are grouped together (main 1, main 2, tape 1, tape 2, Rec, etc).

I always thought that the tape output was always fixed with the rest of the outputs having a variable output.

Brf...I meant that "physically" on the back of the unit, the outputs are grouped (close to one another) together.

Its also a nice feature to have even if you don't use a tape player. It allows you to run something like an EQ through your system without it being in the signal path (unless you need to use it).

Thanks all for the perspectives.

Just one last check, can I still use the volume control on my pre-amp if I use "Tape" and "Rec" as "Tape in" and "Tape out" for equalizer?

Tape out is generally a fixed output level. Tape in is controlled by the preamp volume control.

You can also use the "out" for a headphone amp. I'm surprised so many current preamps offer these...maybe in anticipation of the reel to reel boom that is (barely) happening.