3M Wollensak Magnetic Tape Recorder, Model 1500 SS, 1960-1965

01

Artifact Overview

In 1930, a new material--plastic tape coated with magnetic pigment--opened worlds of possibility for sound recording and data storage. Professionals used open-reel magnetic tape recorders to pre-record radio shows; consumer models were used for home recording and music playback. The format was sonically superior to compact cassettes introduced in 1963, but shifted to niche use by the 1980s.

Artifact Details

Artifact

Tape recorder

Date Made

1960-1965

Creator Notes

Wollensak was a division of the 3M Company.

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

2014.0.17.1

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford.

Material

Iron alloy
Plastic
Rubber (Material)
Cadmium

Dimensions

Height: 6.75 in
Width: 10.75 in
Length: 12.25 in

Inscriptions

top: 3M Wollensak top, handwritten: Edison Institute front: Wollensak / 3M label: Property of Audio-Visual rear: Wollensak Magnetic Tape Recorder Ser. No. 50020789 Wollensak 3M St. Paul, Minn. 55119 U.S.A.
3M Wollensak Magnetic Tape Recorder, Model 1500 SS, 1960-1965