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By James Reed
Globe Staff / July 24, 2009

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We’ve recently seen the revival of vinyl - now in abundance at music stores and merch tables at concerts - and celebrated the 30th anniversary of the Walkman, but could the return of another seemingly obsolete piece of technology be upon us?

Doubtful, but leave it to ’70s rock gods Cheap Trick to try to bring back the 8-track tape. In a move that smacks more of a promotional stunt than a commentary on sound quality, Cheap Trick is offering its new album, “The Latest,’’ on limited-edition vinyl and 8-track, in addition to CD and MP3 formats.

No word yet on how good it actually sounds on 8-track, but it’s obviously meant to be a keepsake. Why else would it cost $30, especially since most other Cheap Trick 8-tracks go for less than $10 on eBay?

You can order the 8-track and LP versions of “The Latest’’ at www.cheaptrick.com. Now you just need to find an actual 8-track player. (Hint: Cheapest bid on eBay starts at 99 cents.) JAMES REED

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