Tape recorder

In general, a tape recorder, tape deck, cassette deck or tape machine is any device that records a fluctuating signal by moving a strip of magnetic tape across a tape head, which is a strong electromagnet. Current flowing in the coils of the electromagnet cause the magnetic material on the tape to align in a manner proportional to the original signal. The signal can be reproduced by running the tape back across the tape head, where the reverse process occurs - the magnetic imprint on the tape induces a small current in the read head which approximates the original signal. This is then amplified for playback. Many tape recorders are capable of recording and playing back at once by means of separate record and playback heads in line or combined in one unit.

See also

• Audio editing
• Capstan
• cassette deck
• Compact audio cassette
• Digital audio tape
• Electromagnetism
• Electronic music
• Helical scan
• Reel-to-reel audio tape recording
• Sound recording
• Wire recording