Monday, 4 June 2012

1964, Science and Technology: Compact Cassette

In 1962 Philips Hasselt invented the compact audio cassette medium for audio storage, introducing it in Europe in August 1963 and in the United States in November 1964, with the trademark name Compact Cassette.

Although there were other magnetic tape cartridge systems (RCA cartridge (1958-1964), Fidelipac (1959), DC International (1965) by Grundig, Telefunken and Blaupunkt, 8-track (1965) by Lear Jet Corporation), the Compact Cassette became dominant as a result of Philips' decision to license the format free of charge. The mass production of compact audio cassettes began in 1964 in Hanover, Germany. Pre-recorded music cassettes (also known as Musicassettes or MC) were launched in Europe in late 1965.
Philips Compact Cassettes from the 1970s
First Compact Cassette Player the Philips EL3300
In the early years, sound quality was average, but it improved during the 1970s. The Compact Cassette went on to become a popular (and re-recordable) alternative to the 12 inch vinyl LP during the late 1970s and early 1980s.
BASF C90 Compact Cassette from the 1970s

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