Fisher Price Tuff Stuff Tape Recorder

Editorial Reviews
This colorful, kiddy recorder is solid, durable, and has a wide, textured handle. Unfortunately, it's still mediocre after considering its engineering. It's top-heavy, yet has a flimsy cassette door which may be problematic if there's a lot of toppling (likely with preschoolers). The machine has all the functions of other toy tape players, including large buttons, icons, and a karaoke microphone. The tradeoffs: rewind and forward buttons must be held down to work, and the record button is hard to press down (all tedious during song repeats). The microphone is attached by a fairly short cord, which means some kids will have to carry the heavy, clunky machine, or sit down, to use it properly. The microphone itself offers limited amplification, but kids will still love elevating their voices above the music. The sound quality is very good, even stereophonic when headphones are employed. There are adapter jacks for headphones and AC power, but parents will have to buy these accessories separately. The recorder requires four C batteries (not included). --Diane Beall