PlayTape

PlayTape is an audiotape format and playback system introduced in 1966 by Frank Stanton. It is a two-track system, and was launched to compete with existing 4-track cartridge technology. A PlayTape cartridge uses ⅛" tape. The cartridges play anywhere from eight to 24 minutes, and are continuous. Because of its portability, PlayTape was an almost instant success, and over 3,000 artists had published in this format by 1968. White cases usually meant about eight songs were on the tape.

At the time of PlayTape's launch, vinyl records reigned supreme, and Earl Muntz's Stereo-Pak (based on the broadcast "Fidelipac" cartridge system) was also a popular sound delivery system. His car players were offered with stereo sound. Bill Lear's 8-track tape system, though in production, had not yet achieved its market potential. Moreover, neither Lear or Muntz was offering a portable player, though Muntz eventually did sell one.

While PlayTape found some success in reaching the youth audience, it was not as successful in targeting the business market. Stanton marketed his device as a dictation machine, but he was unable to persuade businesses to adopt his creation. Issues of player quality limited sales, and ultimately, the introduction of home and portable players by the 4-track and 8-track manufacturers led to the demise of PlayTape.