Music cassettes

Do you want more than just streaming music? Then you will surely appreciate the unique sound quality of a cassette. Just like vinyl records, the rectangular format with magnetic tape has been experiencing a revival for years – and dedicated music lovers couldn’t be happier. EMP is bringing back the tradition of tapes! In our shop, you can find special albums from popular bands in a convenient format, ranging from Alternative/Indie and Pop Punk to the giants of the metal scene.

Music Cassettes & MCs – Analog sound to collect

A cassette is much more than just a music format. Especially in subcultures such as metal, rock and punk, music cassettes have never gone out of style. They are part of the scene. At EMP, you can discover a huge selection of bands from some of the most influential genres and subgenres.

Buy Metal MCs – Metal for every taste

If you are looking for a pure listening experience, you can’t go wrong with compact cassettes. Especially in subgenres such as black metal, death metal and punk, the tape tradition remains an important part of the scene. Why? Because cassettes have always been essential to these genres and still are today. Underground labels outside the mainstream appreciate these affordable formats. Unlike vinyl, small quantities can be produced quickly and at a low cost. This allowed new music to spread from one person to another during the analogue era.

EMP offers a wide selection of cassettes, including true classics and releases from influential bands and artists such as Entombed, Immortal, Cradle of Filth, Primordial, Cannibal Corpse and Mayhem.

Rock and Stoner Cassettes – The raw sound of classics

The magnetic tape crackles as you hear the warm sound of a guitar riff. Nothing compares to the characteristic sounds of a tape playing through a cassette recorder. We provide the perfect soundtrack for this experience. The analogue sound quality gives heavy riffs, fuzzy guitars and psychedelic soundscapes a depth that digital formats often lack. That’s why you can also find legendary hard rock bands such as Deep Purple and iconic acts like Dark Tranquillity in our collection.

Punk, Hardcore & Alternative Tapes – DIY spirit on cassette

Compact cassettes have a long and deeply rooted tradition. Countless demos, limited DIY releases and underground recordings from previously unknown bands were first released on cassette. The best part: Over the years, MCs have become a true cult format within the scene. Unlike vinyl or CDs, cassettes can easily be copied with a double cassette deck. This made them the perfect medium for unknown artists to share their handmade music.

Tapes bring the raw and unpolished aesthetic of punk rock, hardcore, indie and alternative rock directly to your ears. They avoid overly polished production and highlight unconventional sounds in all their forms. In our shop, you can discover true treasures from this culture, such as the “Unplugged in Boston” album by thrash metal legends Megadeth. Recorded in 2001 at a small bar in Boston, the concert reveals a completely different side of these iconic musicians. These special and almost intimate moments can only truly be experienced on an audio cassette.

MC Editions Overview – From Standard to Collector’s Edition

Who says only vinyl records have become colourful thanks to their revival? The comeback of MCs has created plenty of excitement. We offer tapes ranging from classic standard editions to limited collector’s items. This way, you can enjoy the unique physical experience of a music format every time you listen.

• Standard: Even a standard edition offers more than a streamed song. You receive a classic audio cassette in a black or transparent case, including tracklist and cover artwork.
• Coloured Tape: These MCs are a real visual highlight. The cassette case comes in special colours such as green, red or azure blue, making them stand out in your cassette player or on your shelf.
• Re-Release: Re-releases are new editions of classic albums that have long been unavailable. At EMP, you can find albums from bands such as Primordial and Sacred Reich to complete your collection.
• Boxset/Collector’s Edition: These collector’s items usually include multiple cassettes, posters, patches and bonus material. They are often strictly limited and are a special thank-you from musicians to their most loyal fans.
• Demo Tapes: These are the ultimate treasures for music nerds and collectors. These tapes contain early underground recordings produced in very limited quantities. They capture the authentic sound of a band’s early work. It’s hard to get closer to your favourite band than this.

Frequently Asked Questions about Music Cassettes

Here you can find answers to the most important questions about compact music formats. We explain which cassettes are available for pre-order and which ones you can only get exclusively from us. You will also learn how to store your cassettes correctly so they last for many years.

Can I pre-order Music Cassettes?

We offer several albums that you can pre-order. You can identify these products directly below the item information by the label “Pre-order”. As soon as your desired item is available, we prepare your order for shipping and send it to you.

How should I take care of my cassettes?

Unlike CDs, USB sticks or vinyl records, cassettes have some unique technical characteristics. The actual storage medium is magnetic tape, where songs are stored on magnetised particles. Therefore, avoid storing your cassettes near devices that create electromagnetic fields. These include speakers, televisions, refrigerators, chargers, power adapters and microwaves. This helps protect the sound quality of the magnetic tape.

Heat and direct sunlight can deform the plastic case, while moisture can cause mould to develop on the tape. Therefore, it is recommended to store audio cassettes in a cool, dry and dark place. If properly cared for, your tapes can last for 30 to 40 years and become classics themselves.

Are there exclusive cassettes available at EMP?

Rare recordings and exclusive albums are a dream for every collector and music fan. We also have something special for you. Only at EMP can you get the demo tape “Planlos” by the band Planlos. Secure a piece of music history and passion with this unique release.

Can I return my items if I'm not happy with them?

You can return your order easily through our returns portal.

Discover the world of Metal MCs at the EMP Online Shop.

Looking for a unique listening experience? Then music cassettes are exactly what you need. Experience your favourite bands in a completely new way. Even better: With a cassette player, you can enjoy their music in true DIY style, whether you prefer punk, alternative/indie, hardcore or metal. We have the biggest names in the scene available for you. And if an album is currently unavailable, you can simply pre-order it from us.

Don’t wait and rediscover music the way collectors and true fans appreciate it.

As a member of our Backstage Club, you can enjoy exclusive perks, plus free delivery.