Q | Quadraphonic quartet -[ FAFM '24 ]- >>Explored<<

A TEAC A-3340S 4-channel tape deck's quartet of VU meters, output selectors, and record indicator lights.

 

This deck was introduced during the 1970s quadraphonic sound fad, the main giveaway in this picture being the Front and Rear labeling of the output (or monitoring) switches. During that era, tape (both reel-to-reel and, yes, the lowly eight-track cartridge) was the only way to get four discrete (independent) channels from any format. The humble LP phonograph record wasn't so lucky; read the Wikipedia article I linked above to marvel (?) at the variety of competing standards (most with the letter Q in their acronyms) and you'll see why the quadraphonic concept did not last long, although multichannel sound in the home would make a successful return decades later.

 

Machines like this one were also a home music producer's favorite, until recorders with eight or more tracks and, ultimately, versatile digital options took over. Companies catering to enthusiasts and audiophiles still make tape to satisfy those keeping old recorders alive in the quest to preserve that classic analog sound.

 

Explored February 17, 2024.

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