Digital Audio Tape - (DAT) - A professional format for 2-track digital recording. DAT was sold at the consumer level but wasn't a commercial success. As digital recorders have no tolerance for clipping, using a DAT recorder takes a slightly different knack. The results can be worth it however, as the DAT format offers the same resolution and dynamic range as CDs. Digital recorders can record for up to 3 hours on a tape.