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Sony Launches the Betamax in the U.S.

Sony Launches the Betamax in the U.S.

Sony introduces the LV-1901 (the same model as the LV-1801 in Japan) to the U.S. market with the pricetag of $2500. Its a TV / VCR combination unit. Like the Japanese model, the unit is only capable of recording 60 minutes per videocassette.

Matsushita VX-100

Matsushita introduces their VX format and VCR in Japan. The system uses 1/2″ tape on two reels stack on top of each other inside a cassette. Launched in the U.S. two years later.
Teldec TeD

Teldec TeD

The Teldec TeD (Television Disc) becomes the first consumer videodisc to reach the market. It’s an 8 or 12-inch in diameter disc which at most contains 10 minutes of video. In its first three months, 6,000 units (each costing $600) and 50,000 discs are...
HBO Airs Its First Movie

HBO Airs Its First Movie

On its inaugural airing, HBO (Home Box Office), broadcasts a hockey match Between the New York Rangers and the Vancouver Canucks, followed by their first feature film, Sometimes a Great Notion (1971).