The evolution of recorded sound from the phonograph to streaming involved various formats such as tinfoil cylinders, wax cylinders, disc records, magnetic tape, 8-tracks, compact cassettes, CDs, and MP3s, each offering different features and benefits.
While MP3s currently dominate music streaming, the rise of lossless formats indicates a growing appreciation for superior audio quality, with advancements in storage technology making lossless audio more accessible and comparable to advancements in video quality.
Deep dives
Evolution of Recorded Sound: From Phonographs to Magnetic Tape
The podcast explores the evolution of recorded sound, starting with the invention of the phonograph in the 1860s. The phonograph visually recorded sound on paper but couldn't play it back. Thomas Edison later introduced tinfoil cylinders that could be played. Wax cylinders and then disc records gained popularity. The advent of magnetic wire and tape revolutionized recording, with magnetic tape offering longer recording times and better sound fidelity. The introduction of 8-tracks and compact cassettes provided portable and affordable options. CDs replaced tapes, followed by MP3s, although they sacrificed quality for convenience.
The Rise and Fall of Formats: 8-tracks, Compact Cassettes, and CDs
8-tracks gained popularity for their durability and ample storage capacity, but were eventually replaced by compact cassettes, which became ubiquitous in the 1980s. Cassettes allowed for personalized mix tapes and a tactile listening experience. CDs offered improved audio quality and convenience, but were prone to scratching. The dominance of CDs was short-lived due to the rise of MP3s, which offered easy digital downloads. Today, most people stream MP3s, though lossless formats are gaining popularity.
The Pursuit of High-Quality Audio in Digital Formats
While MP3s dominate the music streaming landscape today, lossless formats are being embraced for their superior audio quality. Lossless formats preserve the original studio sound and offer a more immersive listening experience. Advancements in storage technology have made it easier to store lossless audio, making it accessible for more people. The podcast emphasizes the importance of aiming for the highest quality audio possible, comparing it to advancements in video quality over the years.
The history of recorded sound stretches back over a hundred and fifty years, starting with a device that could “record” a voice on a piece of paper. Today, we can enjoy lossless streaming anywhere we go… but getting here wasn’t easy. In this episode, we worked with Qobuz, the high quality music platform, to chart the history of audio mediums, from cylinders made of tin foil and wax, to vinyl, 8-track, cassette, CDs, and mp3s. Along the way, we explore the innovations and quirks of each format, with memories sent in from our listeners and the 20K team. Featuring Adam Tovell from the British Library Sound Archive.