pretaped

Pretaped, also written pre-taped, is an adjective used to describe content that has been recorded before its intended broadcast time, rather than transmitted live. In modern media, pretaped material is typically produced digitally, with historical reference to magnetic tape as a medium for earlier recordings.

In television and radio, pretaped segments include interviews, field reports, comedy sketches, sports reels, and other material produced in advance of a broadcast. Some programs employ a live-to-tape workflow, where material is recorded with the pacing and setup of live television but aired later, combining the appearance of spontaneity with post-production control.

The use of pretaped content offers several advantages. Editorial control allows for careful editing of pacing, audio, and visuals, and provides the opportunity to correct errors through multiple takes. It also accommodates complex logistics, such as remote locations, special effects, or coordinating schedules across time zones and multiple contributors, while ensuring that broadcasts align with commercial breaks and scheduling requirements.

Disadvantages include reduced immediacy and a potential perception of decreased authenticity. Pretaped material can be susceptible to selective editing, which may influence audience perception, and labeled mischaracterizations can raise ethical concerns if viewers expect live content.

Ethically, broadcasters often label pretaped material to inform audiences that the content was recorded in advance, maintaining transparency in journalism and programming. See also live broadcasts and live-to-tape workflows for related concepts.