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Definition: ADAT


(1) See ADAT Lightpipe.

(2) (Alesis Digital Audio Tape) A digital audio recording technology from Alesis, LLC, Cumberland, RI. In 1992, Alesis introduced the first 8-track digital tape recording system. It used S-VHS cassettes and was later known as the "Black Face" machine.

Widely deployed in recording studios around the world, ADAT machines were made in 16-bit Type I and 20-bit Type II models. Multiple units could be linked together via a fiber cable, and PC and Mac expansion cards provided a digital audio link to the units. In 2002, Alesis introduced a 24-track ADAT hard disk recorder and later ceased production of the tape recorders. See MDM.