who needs a cd player anymore
03-08-09: Audiotomb Merriam-Webster's definition of obsolete is "no longer in use or no longer useful". Considering VCRs are still sold (do an Amazon search if you like), and they are still used in thousands of households, I would say the answer to your question is no. Many people have moved on to newer recording/playback technology, but that does not mean VCRs are obsolete. They aren't. |
VCR's are a bad example as most people who have used a Tivo or DVD will never go back except for access to their existing tapes. Records are a bit different as they offer something digital didn't when it was introduced and it may still be catching up. Tubes are another example of something that is obsolete in many ways but offers a sound that is embraced by audiophiles, myself included. from Wikipedia: Technical obsolescence: Videotapes making way for DVDs Technical obsolescence may occur when a new product or technology supersedes the old, and it becomes preferred to utilize the new technology in place of the old. Historical examples of superseding technologies causing obsolescence include CD-ROM over floppy disk which allowed for greater storage capacity and speed, DVD over VHS which allowed for greater quality and multimedia functions, or the telephone over the telegraph which allowed for audio transmission instead of coded electrical signals. |
Eastein, you're splitting hairs. There is a difference between technical obsolescence and obsolescence. I'm certain you agree. Thousands and thousands of people still use VCRs who will never switch to newer methods. We on Audiogon, who have a fair amount of disposable income and can jump to the newest products, often forget about the vast majority of people who cannot afford newer technology and services. For these people, VCRs are still viable. There continues to be a market for VCRs, which is why VCRs are still manufactured and sold today. I agree that VCRs are becoming technically obsolete, but that is a different topic. VCRs are not obsolete in the way Betamax and 8 track are obsolete. The same reason VCRs are not obsolete (deeply embedded use in households over decades) is the same reason CDs and CD players will not be obsolete. I do not agree that CDs are technically obsolete. When a company like Sony releases a new high end CD/SACD player (ES 5400), then it's proof enough to me that the technology is not obsolete. |
