Life before the digital age

Two days ago, on March 8th, the compact disc celebrated its 30th birthday. That is, 30 years ago, the first prototype made its appearance. However, as often is the case with new technology, it took years to become widespread.

The folks over at engadget write that MP3 didn’t even send a gift, and I would have to agree. The CD is lucky to officially be 30 years old and should be grateful it hasn’t gone the way of the laserdisc – yet. Did you ever wonder how old other recording mediums were before they fell by the (mainstream) wayside?

• Phonograph cylinder: 41 years, 1888-1929
• Gramophone record: 95 years, 1894-late 1980s
• 8-track: 18 years, 1964-1982
• Compact Cassette: 36 years, 1964-2000
• Compact Disc: 30+ years, 1979-Present
• MP3: 18+ years, 1991-Present