Digital audiotape (DAT) is a recording format that was predominantly used during the 1990s and early 2000s. It is a type of magnetic tape that uses a sample rate of 48 kHz and a sample size of 16 bits per sample. While the term digital audiotape is widely used, there are several other synonyms that refer to the same technology. These include digital tape, DAT tape, DDS tape, digital audio cassette, DAT cartridge, and digital compact cassette. Despite being replaced by newer technologies like CDs and MP3s, digital audiotape remains a popular format amongst audiophiles and music enthusiasts due to its high quality audio playback.