Stereo-Pak
Magnetic tape-based format for audio / From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The Muntz Stereo-Pak, commonly known as the 4-track cartridge,[1] is a magnetic tape sound recording cartridge technology.
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Media type | Magnetic tape |
---|---|
Encoding | Analog signal |
Read mechanism | Tape head |
Write mechanism | Magnetic recording head |
Developed by | Earl Muntz |
Usage | Car audio playback |
The Stereo-Pak cartridge was inspired by the Fidelipac 2-track monaural (audio & cue tracks, later 3-track for stereo) tape cartridge system invented by George Eash in 1954 and used by radio broadcasters for commercials and jingles beginning in 1959. The Stereo-Pak was adapted from the basic Fidelipac cartridge design by Earl "Madman" Muntz in 1962 with Muntz partnering with Eash, as a way to play prerecorded tapes in cars.[2][3][4]
The tape is arranged in an infinite loop which traverses a central hub and crosses a tape head, usually under a pressure pad to assure proper tape contact. The tape is pulled by tension, and spooling is aided by a lubricant, usually graphite.[5]