Philips invented Compact Cassette in 1963 for home audio recording. Format came in two forms: Musicassette (prerecorded) and blank cassette. Cassette contained two miniature spools with magnetic polyester film. Original tape was ferric oxide, later developed with cobalt and chromium dioxide
Magnetic recording is fundamental for permanent information storage. Cassettes are popular for music distribution and storage. Magnetic recording offers good medium-term storage (10-20 years)
Bit depth only affects noise floor, not actual detail. 14-bit converter can match 24-bit detail at 85dB dynamic range. 24-bit provides more processing flexibility than 16-bit
Aiwa launched world's first personal stereo recorder TP-S30 in 1980. Company competed with Sony in 1980s with healthy brand partnerships. OnAir CassetteBoy (1982) was first wireless walkman, exclusive to Japan