Exploring a Reel of Audio Tape from the 1960s

🎵The tape is a five-inch reel of double play BASF tape made for playing out transmitter breakdown announcements and music during local breakdowns.

📻The tape features a variety of music, including the BBC Radio Phonic Workshop interval signal and the traditional tune 'Oranges and Lemons.'

⏳The first side of the tape repeats a sequence of announcements, music, and the interval signal. The second side contains a similar sequence with longer announcements.

🔊The tape's announcements include information about fault repairs, reception issues, and instructions for viewers when the picture deteriorates.

📅The tape was likely recorded in the early 1960s, as it contains the original version of the BBC Radio Phonic Workshop interval signal.

What is the purpose of this tape?

—The tape was made to be played out from the transmitter during local breakdowns. It contains announcements and music to inform viewers about the fault and provide updates.

What kind of music does the tape feature?

—The tape includes the BBC Radio Phonic Workshop interval signal, as well as a traditional tune called 'Oranges and Lemons.' There is also light music recorded in-house by the BBC.

What do the announcements on the tape discuss?

—The announcements cover various topics, including fault repairs, reception issues, and instructions for viewers when the picture deteriorates.

When was the tape likely recorded?

—The tape was made between 1958 and 1969, but based on the presence of the original version of the BBC Radio Phonic Workshop interval signal, it is likely from the earlier part of the 1960s.

What happens on the second side of the tape?

—The second side features a similar sequence of announcements, music, and the interval signal. However, the announcements on this side are longer compared to the first side.

00:05The video introduces a reel of audio tape from the early 1960s, containing transmitter breakdown announcements and music.

02:25The tape is a five-inch reel of double play BASF tape made specifically for playing out transmitter breakdown announcements and music during local breakdowns.

06:11The tape features a variety of music, including the BBC Radio Phonic Workshop interval signal and the traditional tune 'Oranges and Lemons.'

09:49The first side of the tape contains a sequence of announcements, music, and the interval signal, while the second side features a similar sequence with longer announcements.

11:32The video plays excerpts from the tape, showcasing the different announcements and music featured on it.