<< What killed DAT? It was the copy protection war. >>
Nothing killed DAT. The reason consumers never bought it are:
1) too expensive for the average home stereo
2) Lack of convenience, i.e., can't play it in the car
The average consumer values convenience and price over quality, almost every
time. (remember VHS & Beta, anyone?) The fact is, most folks don't hear
and/or care about the limitations of cassettes, so why would they particularly
appreciate the improved quality of DAT?
DAT quickly gained acceptance in the pro and semi-pro markets, where it
remains firmly ensconced and clearly not dead. Not yet, anyway... Something
will replace it sooner or later. -glenn