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Early Tape Formats
Record label-released pre-recorded tape albums are referred to as "4-track" and "2-track." However, within the industry—among studios, audio engineers, and some historians—they are more accurately described as "1/4 track stereo" and "1/2 track." This distinction lies deep in the history of reel-to-reel tapes.
The Birth of Stereo Reel-to-Reel Tapes
The golden age of pre-recorded tapes began in 1955, two full years before the advent of stereo LP records, with the introduction of stereo 1/2 track tapes, also known as 2-track tapes. Early 2-track stereo recordings required "displaced" or "staggered heads" for playback. These systems utilized two separate mono heads, offset to read the stereo tracks. Operating at a standard speed of 7 1/2 inches per second (IPS), the stereo effect was achieved by the staggered alignment of the tracks—track 2 played 1.6 seconds behind track 1.
To accommodate these tapes, some manufacturers offered conversion kits that modified mono tape decks by adding a second, offset mono head. However, this solution was short-lived. Within about a year, inline heads were introduced, combining the two staggered heads into a single head with aligned stereo tracks. This innovation marked the true beginning of modern stereo reel-to-reel tapes. Tapes from this period were labeled as "inline stereo" to differentiate them from their displaced-head counterparts.
By the late 1950s, commercially released stereo tapes had transitioned entirely to 2-track stereo. Box labeling began to omit specific references to track configurations, simply identifying the tapes as stereo reel-to-reel. This convention persisted until the advent of 4-track tapes, which led to a significant shift in marketing terminology. As a result, 1/4 track and 1/2 track tapes became more commonly known as 4-track and 2-track tapes in consumer markets.
Expert Instrument Repairs
Our experienced technicians can handle all of your instrument repair needs. We offer a range of services, from basic tune-ups to major repairs. Our goal is to get your instrument back in top condition as quickly as possible.
Accessories and Sheet Music
In addition to instruments and lessons, we also offer a range of accessories and sheet music. From strings and picks to music stands and cases, we have everything you need to keep your instrument in top condition. Our selection of sheet music includes a variety of genres and skill levels.
Community Events and Performances
We're more than just a music store - we're a community. We host a variety of events and performances throughout the year, including recitals, concerts, and open mic nights. Check out our calendar to see what's coming up!