Scotch High Energy (1973-1974 US)

Scotch High Energy Cassette Description

The Scotch High Energy cassette tape is a high-quality, analog magnetic tape designed for audio recording and playback. Introduced in the early 1970s, this cassette tape is part of the IEC Type I standard, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of cassette players.

Scotch High Energy Technical Specifications

• Media Type: Magnetic tape cassette
• Encoding: Analog signal, in four tracks
• Capacity: Typically 30, 45, and 60 minutes per side (C60, C90, and C120)
• Tape Width: 3.8 mm
• Track Width: 1.5 mm for mono, 0.6 mm for stereo with a 0.3 mm separation
• Tape Speed: 1.875 inches per second (4.76 cm/s)
• Head Gap: 2 μm, allowing a theoretical maximum frequency of about 12 kHz

User Reviews

Users have praised the Scotch High Energy cassette tape for its reliability and sound quality. One reviewer noted that the tape provided "remarkably kind and even bias noise" during playback, making it suitable for music recording.

Scotch High Energy Key Features

1. Magnetic Coating: The original magnetic material was based on gamma ferric oxide (Fe2O3), with later enhancements including cobalt volume-doping and double-coating techniques to improve overall tape output levels.
2. Compatibility: Designed to work with standard ferric formulations, making it compatible with a wide range of cassette players.
3. Durability: Constructed with a polyester-type plastic film, ensuring durability and resistance to wear.

Improvements over Previous Generation

The Scotch High Energy cassette tape builds upon earlier formulations by incorporating advanced magnetic coatings. The cobalt volume-doping process, introduced in the early 1970s, significantly enhanced the tape's output levels, making it a reliable choice for audio recording.