Digital Recording

Recordable and erasable CDs are giving the compact disc greater versatility. Compact disc recorders allow the user to record audio from various sources on CDs. The recorders require attentive use because the recording procedure depends on the type, quality, and input device of the source material. If the source is a CD that can be played on a machine with digital optical output, it can be connected directly to the CD recorder as input and be dubbed like an audio tape. The recorder evaluates the sonic range of the original and digitally synchronizes it; if tracks are recorded from several CDs, the recorder must resynchronize with each track.

Erasable CDs followed recordable CDs quickly. Erasable CDs or CD-Es can be overwritten when the data on them becomes obsolete. High-density CD-Rs and CD-Es are also being developed and are anticipated by the music industry because they can store music detail more completely. Enhanced audio CDs include music videos, lyrics, scores that the home musician can play, and interviews with the musicians. Enhanced audio CDs can be played on a CD-ROM drive and viewed on a monitor or connected television set. High Definition Compatible Digitals or HDCDs are also being marketed on a limited basis. They produce more realistic sound but require a CD player with a built-in decoder. Tapes in a high-density format are also on the horizon; analysts expect HDTV videocassette recorders to be less expensive than conventional VCRs eventually because the design and concept are simpler while producing higher quality video reproduction. Ultimately, the changes in computer architecture and the uniting of computers with communications systems will bring all types of recordings of the best digital quality into the home from many media sources.