Re: [ARSCLIST] MP3

["Steven C. Barr(x)" <stevenc@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Mike Richter" <mrichter@xxxxxxx>
> Steven C. Barr(x) wrote:
> 
> > Side thought...since all analog reproduction so far relies upon
> > mechanical contact with the recording, does not that mean that
> > ANY playing of an analog recording would involve some measurable
> > degredation of the object (recording) being played?
> 
> Certainly, there is some deformation. Probably there is degradation. 
> Possibly the change may be detectable. Detection itself means some form 
> of measurement which means some sort of playing which implies 
> deformation, probably degradation ...
> 
> As for optical reading (laser or otherwise), there will be quantum 
> effects at least, though admittedly the deformation and potential 
> degradation will be exceedingly slight.
> 
I think I posted a while back to the effect that the laser beams used
to play optical discs could, at least in theory, knock a few billion
molecules from their places...but was told that wasn't possible
because the actual information-bearing surface is protected by a
layer of transparent plastic.

Is this so?

Steven C. Barr