1994 That’s AS:I 54 Audio Cassette

The That’s AS:I 54 was a really impressive Type 1 normal bias tape. The first thing you noticed about it was the unusually quiet performance. Noise levels are truly low for a mid-range Type 1. I used this particular cassette to record an acoustic piano performance, which I played on a Welmar upright in 1994. Tape hiss could be an issue on solo acoustic instrument performances even with Type II cassettes, but it really isn’t a problem here. I didn’t even use Dolby! The sound is what you’d expect from a very good normal bias tape. Rounded and warm, but with a well defined edge.

That’s CD/IIF 60 Audio Cassette

This was a fantastic tape. Essentially, Tape Tardis is a photo blog, but I like to add some info about the cassettes it depicts, so I usually play each tape between taking its photograph and making a post. I can honestly say I was knocked out by the sound of this That’s CD/IIF 60.

Radio Shack Electronic Tape Head Demagnetizer

Why do I have the urge to write LOL when I see this?… Actually, there’s nothing inherently laughable about this Radio Shack Tape Head Demagnetizer. I think it’s just the design, and the size of the word DEMAGNETIZER. Makes me want to hear a fanfare when insert it into the tape machine. It’s hard to tell from the photo, but the label has a shiny foil type finish, and also appears to be covered with a thin plastic film.