Reel-to-reel is a type of magnetic tape audio recording system that uses large reels to hold the tape. This format was popular from the 1940s to the 1980s for both professional and home audio recording. The tape moves past a playback head, allowing sound to be recorded and played back with high fidelity. The system typically consists of a tape deck, which houses the reels and playback mechanisms, and the magnetic tape itself. Reel-to-reel machines are known for their durability and sound quality, making them a favorite among audiophiles and recording studios, often associated with analog audio technology.