Physical Description
An audio cassette is comprised of a 1/2 mm-wide tape that winds around two spools within a plastic shell measuring four inches long, 2 1/2 inches tall, and approximately 5/16ths of an inch wide. The format is issued with playing times ranging from 30 to 20 minutes. The cassette--both in the blank and prerecorded configurations--is typically sold inside a plastic carrying case.
A considerably smaller version is presently marketed for use in answering
machines and micro-tape recorders. The latter are primarily used for taping
lectures or professional dictation.
Durability
If properly cared for, the format is relatively durable. Sound maintenance
procedures include playing on a smoothly operating machine with clean tape
heads; storing away from direct ultraviolet light in a cool, dry environment;
exercising periodically when rarely used (i.e., shifting from one spool
to another); and the avoidance of rough handling. While the format is largely
idiot proof, the tape is prone to be pulled out of its casing and can be
stretched due to sudden operation mode changes in cheap machines (e.g.,
Fast Forward to Play).
Sound Quality
While it doesn't approach the digital formats--e.g., CDs, MDs, DAT--in
this respect (most notably in providing listener "headroom," many sonic
advances have been made over the past thirty years. Constant taping and/or
playback use will result in significant degradation of sound quality.
Versatility
The format allows for economical recording; the only other audio formats
offering this option--i.e., mini-discs, digital audio tapes, digital compact
cassettes, open reel tapes--are not readily available in the marketplace.
Cassette recorders are found in homes, automobiles, retail outlets, etc.,
throughout the world. Cassettes are easily transported from one place to
another. Recordings can be made with a wide range of noise reduction settings,
including Dolby B, C and S. Three main categories are available: Type I
for everyday recording, Type II (chromium) for high quality performance,
and Type IV (metal) for longterm preservation.
Availability
Blank and prerecorded cassettes are sold by many types of retailers,
including record stores, department chains, drug stores, supermarkets,
convenience outlets, bookstores, and mail order companies.
Cost
Retail prices for blanks range from less than one dollar to several
dollars apiece. Prerecorded cassettes generally list for eleven dollars;
budget and mid-price titles often sell for less than one-half that price.
On the other hand, deluxe box sets sometimes cost over $50. Machines range
from under twenty dollars for cheap portable models to approximately one
thousand dollars for high end products. A number of high performance recorders
have been discontinued with the rise of the compact disc medium.
Strengths
In addition to the previously noted points, cassettes seem capable of
performing satisfactorily in virtually any environment other than underwater;
e.g., the pounding characterizing jogging. Its universality renders it
ideal for libraries of all types; the inexpensiveness of both the hardware
and software enables people from all economic strata to utilize the medium.
Despite comparing poorly with digital formats, high end cassettes are capable
of extremely faithful reproduction of sound.
Weaknesses
In addition to sonic limitations and wear from repeated use, inactive
cassettes are susceptible to imprinting (the migration of magnetic sound
particles from one tape surface to that adjacent to it). Like all tape
formats, cassettes lack random access capability.
Usefulness
The medium is ideal for customizing learning materials. The visually impaired find them particularly useful in the form of talking books. Cassettes are also invaluable for inexpensively documenting performances and other live activities. Until digital recording makes inroads into the private sector, cassettes remain a must for libraries and educational institutions in general. [includes work by K. Hembree]