The Webster-Chicago Model 181 is a vintage "Electronic Memory" wire recorder from the late 1940s and early 1950s. It was designed as a low-cost semi-portable studio model that used magnetized stainless steel wire to capture audio, predating the widespread use of magnetic tape. Records on hair-thin stainless steel wire. Amplifier: Features a built-in 4-tube AC-operated amplifier, often used today by enthusiasts as a low-wattage (approx. 5W) guitar combo amp. Recording Time: Typical wire spools for this era provided roughly one hour of recording/playback time. Mechanism: The recording head oscillates vertically during operation to ensure the wire winds smoothly onto the reels without kinking. Input/Output: Typically includes a proprietary microphone input, internal speaker, and output selections for external monitoring. $250