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Mini-Cassette

2009-12-19T07:30:45Z

68.40.238.196: /* Decepticons */

:''Mini-Cassettes are [[Transformers]] from the [[Generation 1 (franchise)|Generation 1]] [[continuity family]].''

[[Image:Minicassettes studioox.jpg|right|325px|thumb|The cassette tape: the future of data storage and communications!]]
'''Mini-Cassettes''' (also known as ''Cassette Warriors'' or simply ''Cassettes'') are Transformers whose alternate mode is an audio cassette. They can fit into the chest compartments of [[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]] or [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] (while the toys can fit into either, in fiction they stick to the communicator of their own faction).

Many of the characters have communication or espionage roles. Also, many of them are [[redeco]]s.

:''Japanese name:'' '''Cassettebot''' (Autobots) / '''Cassettron''' (Decepticons)

==Fiction==
===Cartoon continuity===
====Generation 1 cartoon====
The Mini-Cassettes were largely subordinate to Soundwave and Blaster, and very loyal to them. They spent much of their time stored away in their chest waiting to be called out when the situation required it. The mini-cassettes with beast forms were treated like pets and generally did not speak.

===Marvel Comics continuity===
====Generation 1====
Mini-cassettes were more autonomous and filled in regular positions in the ranks of the Autobot and Decepticons. They could all speak, but sometimes go long periods without talking.

==Toys (G1)==
===Decepticons===
'''1984'''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]]
* [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]]
* [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]]
* [[Buzzsaw (G1)|Buzzsaw]]
* [[Ravage (G1)/toys|Ravage]]
* [[Enemy]] (came attached to a an AM radio/headset released as a piece of licensed merchandise. Although he could not be removed, Enemy was still able to transform.)}}
'''1986'''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Ratbat (G1)|Ratbat]] (only available in a two pack with an unchanged re-release of Frenzy)}}
'''1987'''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Slugfest (G1)|Slugfest]]
* [[Overkill (G1)|Overkill]]}}
'''1988'''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Squawktalk]] & [[Beastbox]] (combine to form [[Squawkbox]])}}

===Autobots===
'''1986'''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Rewind]]
* [[Eject]]
* [[Steeljaw (G1)|Steeljaw]]
* [[Ramhorn]]}}
'''1988'''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Grand Slam]] & [[Raindance]] (combine to form [[Slamdance]])}}

==Headmasters (Japan-only release)==
===Autobot W Cassettebots===
'''1987''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Graphy]] & [[Noise]] (combine to form [[Decibel]])
* [[Dial]] & [[Saur]] (combine to form [[Legout]]}}

==eHobby Exclusives==
===Cobalt Sentries set===
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Garboil]]
* [[Howlback]]}}
===Kiss Players Position Cassetron Set===
* [[Glit]]]
* [[Rosanna (KP)|Rosanna]]
* [[Sundor]]
===eHobby Twincast re-release set===
* [[Flip Sides]]

==Fiction-only==
===G1===
{{columnlist|1|
* [[:Image:Generic cassettes.jpg|Many]] [[generic]]s.
* The [[Autoscout]] {{storylink|A Prime Problem}}
* [[Playback]] {{storylink|The Big Shutdown!}} }}

===[[Shattered Glass (franchise)|Shattered Glass]]===
{{columnlist|1|
* SG [[Laserbeak (SG)|Laserbeak]] {{storylink|Shattered Expectations}} {{storylink|Shattered Glass (issue)|Shattered Glass}}
* SG [[Buzzsaw (SG)|Buzzsaw]] {{storylink|Shattered Glass (issue)|Shattered Glass}}
* SG [[Frenzy (SG)|Frenzy]] {{storylink|Shattered Glass (issue)|Shattered Glass}} {{storylink|Eye in the Sky}}
* SG [[Ratbat (SG)|Ratbat]] {{storylink|Hasbro Transformers Collectors' Club issue 28}}
* SG [[Rumble (SG)|Rumble]] {{storylink|Shattered Glass (issue)|Shattered Glass}}
* SG [[Ravage (SG)|Ravage]] {{storylink|Eye in the Sky}}
* SG [[Overkill (SG)|Overkill]] {{storylink|Do Over}}
* SG [[Slugfest (SG)|Slugfest]] {{storylink|Dungeons & Dinobots}} {{storylink|Do Over}} }}

==Trivia==
[[Image:DiamondStickerbookRecordicons.jpg|thumb|200px]]
*Although originally referred to as '''Decepticon Cassettes''' in the 1984 toy [[catalog]], all subsequent catalogs would refer to both factions as '''Mini-Cassettes'''.
*Other that have been applied to the subgroups are "Spy Cassettes", used in advertisements featured in the [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)#Overview 2|Marvel UK comics]] and an organizational chart in the [[Transformers Annual 1987]], and "Recordicon", used in a 1986 [[Diamond]] ''Transformers: The Movie'' stickerbook to describe Laserbeak. "Recordicon" has also seen recent use in the ''Shattered Glass'' profiles for Ravage and Ratbat. "Cassetticon" has been used as an unofficial fan-created term for the subgroup.
*The San Diego Comic-Con 2009 reissue of Soundwave refers to the cassettes as "Deployer" figures. The term [[Deployer]] had previously been used for the small animal-to-weapon figures from the Beast Machines toy line.
*In "[[The Agenda (Part 2)|The Agenda]]", despite his reformatting into a [[Predacon (BW)|Predacon]], [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]] retains his mini-cassette alternate mode, which he uses interface with his [[Transwarp cruiser|ship]].
*Although occasionally referred to in fiction or instructions as cassettes, the alt modes are intended to represent 1:1 scale mini-cassettes, such as you would use with a personal recording device.

[[Category:Mini-Cassettes| ]]
[[Category:Subgroups]]

Mini-Cassette

2009-12-19T07:30:24Z

68.40.238.196: /* Decepticons */

:''Mini-Cassettes are [[Transformers]] from the [[Generation 1 (franchise)|Generation 1]] [[continuity family]].''

[[Image:Minicassettes studioox.jpg|right|325px|thumb|The cassette tape: the future of data storage and communications!]]
'''Mini-Cassettes''' (also known as ''Cassette Warriors'' or simply ''Cassettes'') are Transformers whose alternate mode is an audio cassette. They can fit into the chest compartments of [[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]] or [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] (while the toys can fit into either, in fiction they stick to the communicator of their own faction).

Many of the characters have communication or espionage roles. Also, many of them are [[redeco]]s.

:''Japanese name:'' '''Cassettebot''' (Autobots) / '''Cassettron''' (Decepticons)

==Fiction==
===Cartoon continuity===
====Generation 1 cartoon====
The Mini-Cassettes were largely subordinate to Soundwave and Blaster, and very loyal to them. They spent much of their time stored away in their chest waiting to be called out when the situation required it. The mini-cassettes with beast forms were treated like pets and generally did not speak.

===Marvel Comics continuity===
====Generation 1====
Mini-cassettes were more autonomous and filled in regular positions in the ranks of the Autobot and Decepticons. They could all speak, but sometimes go long periods without talking.

==Toys (G1)==
===Decepticons===
'''1984'''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]]
* [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]]
* [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]]
* [[Buzzsaw (G1)|Buzzsaw]]
* [[Ravage (G1)/toys|Ravage]]
* [[Enemy]] (came attached to a an AM radio/headset released as a piece of licensed merchandise. Although he could not be removed, Enemy was still able to transform.)}}
'''1986'''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Ratbat (G1)|Ratbat]] (only available in a two pack with an unchanged re-release of Frenzy)}}
'''1987'''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Slugfest (G1)|Slugfest]]
* [[Overkill (G1)|Overkill]]}}
'''1988'''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Squawktalk]] & [[Beastbox]] (combine to form [[Squawkbox]])}}

nemy first appeared in 1984 as part of a working AM radio & headset, a piece of merchandise made by Nasta under the "Power Tronic" imprimatur. Featuring a large wearable Decepticon symbol belt-clip, removing this item revealed Enemy, a solid red (with blue thighs and upper arms) simplification of the Rumble/Frenzy mould. Permanently attached to the radio, Enemy could not be removed without breakage, but could nevertheless transform in situ.

===Autobots===
'''1986'''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Rewind]]
* [[Eject]]
* [[Steeljaw (G1)|Steeljaw]]
* [[Ramhorn]]}}
'''1988'''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Grand Slam]] & [[Raindance]] (combine to form [[Slamdance]])}}

==Headmasters (Japan-only release)==
===Autobot W Cassettebots===
'''1987''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Graphy]] & [[Noise]] (combine to form [[Decibel]])
* [[Dial]] & [[Saur]] (combine to form [[Legout]]}}

==eHobby Exclusives==
===Cobalt Sentries set===
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Garboil]]
* [[Howlback]]}}
===Kiss Players Position Cassetron Set===
* [[Glit]]]
* [[Rosanna (KP)|Rosanna]]
* [[Sundor]]
===eHobby Twincast re-release set===
* [[Flip Sides]]

==Fiction-only==
===G1===
{{columnlist|1|
* [[:Image:Generic cassettes.jpg|Many]] [[generic]]s.
* The [[Autoscout]] {{storylink|A Prime Problem}}
* [[Playback]] {{storylink|The Big Shutdown!}} }}

===[[Shattered Glass (franchise)|Shattered Glass]]===
{{columnlist|1|
* SG [[Laserbeak (SG)|Laserbeak]] {{storylink|Shattered Expectations}} {{storylink|Shattered Glass (issue)|Shattered Glass}}
* SG [[Buzzsaw (SG)|Buzzsaw]] {{storylink|Shattered Glass (issue)|Shattered Glass}}
* SG [[Frenzy (SG)|Frenzy]] {{storylink|Shattered Glass (issue)|Shattered Glass}} {{storylink|Eye in the Sky}}
* SG [[Ratbat (SG)|Ratbat]] {{storylink|Hasbro Transformers Collectors' Club issue 28}}
* SG [[Rumble (SG)|Rumble]] {{storylink|Shattered Glass (issue)|Shattered Glass}}
* SG [[Ravage (SG)|Ravage]] {{storylink|Eye in the Sky}}
* SG [[Overkill (SG)|Overkill]] {{storylink|Do Over}}
* SG [[Slugfest (SG)|Slugfest]] {{storylink|Dungeons & Dinobots}} {{storylink|Do Over}} }}

==Trivia==
[[Image:DiamondStickerbookRecordicons.jpg|thumb|200px]]
*Although originally referred to as '''Decepticon Cassettes''' in the 1984 toy [[catalog]], all subsequent catalogs would refer to both factions as '''Mini-Cassettes'''.
*Other that have been applied to the subgroups are "Spy Cassettes", used in advertisements featured in the [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)#Overview 2|Marvel UK comics]] and an organizational chart in the [[Transformers Annual 1987]], and "Recordicon", used in a 1986 [[Diamond]] ''Transformers: The Movie'' stickerbook to describe Laserbeak. "Recordicon" has also seen recent use in the ''Shattered Glass'' profiles for Ravage and Ratbat. "Cassetticon" has been used as an unofficial fan-created term for the subgroup.
*The San Diego Comic-Con 2009 reissue of Soundwave refers to the cassettes as "Deployer" figures. The term [[Deployer]] had previously been used for the small animal-to-weapon figures from the Beast Machines toy line.
*In "[[The Agenda (Part 2)|The Agenda]]", despite his reformatting into a [[Predacon (BW)|Predacon]], [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]] retains his mini-cassette alternate mode, which he uses interface with his [[Transwarp cruiser|ship]].
*Although occasionally referred to in fiction or instructions as cassettes, the alt modes are intended to represent 1:1 scale mini-cassettes, such as you would use with a personal recording device.

[[Category:Mini-Cassettes| ]]
[[Category:Subgroups]]

Mini-Cassette

2009-12-19T07:23:14Z

68.40.238.196:

:''Mini-Cassettes are [[Transformers]] from the [[Generation 1 (franchise)|Generation 1]] [[continuity family]].''

[[Image:Minicassettes studioox.jpg|right|325px|thumb|The cassette tape: the future of data storage and communications!]]
'''Mini-Cassettes''' (also known as ''Cassette Warriors'' or simply ''Cassettes'') are Transformers whose alternate mode is an audio cassette. They can fit into the chest compartments of [[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]] or [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] (while the toys can fit into either, in fiction they stick to the communicator of their own faction).

Many of the characters have communication or espionage roles. Also, many of them are [[redeco]]s.

:''Japanese name:'' '''Cassettebot''' (Autobots) / '''Cassettron''' (Decepticons)

==Fiction==
===Cartoon continuity===
====Generation 1 cartoon====
The Mini-Cassettes were largely subordinate to Soundwave and Blaster, and very loyal to them. They spent much of their time stored away in their chest waiting to be called out when the situation required it. The mini-cassettes with beast forms were treated like pets and generally did not speak.

===Marvel Comics continuity===
====Generation 1====
Mini-cassettes were more autonomous and filled in regular positions in the ranks of the Autobot and Decepticons. They could all speak, but sometimes go long periods without talking.

==Toys (G1)==
===Decepticons===
'''1984'''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]]
* [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]]
* [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]]
* [[Buzzsaw (G1)|Buzzsaw]]
* [[Ravage (G1)/toys|Ravage]]}}
'''1986'''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Ratbat (G1)|Ratbat]] (only available in a two pack with an unchanged re-release of Frenzy)}}
'''1987'''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Slugfest (G1)|Slugfest]]
* [[Overkill (G1)|Overkill]]}}
'''1988'''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Squawktalk]] & [[Beastbox]] (combine to form [[Squawkbox]])}}

===Autobots===
'''1986'''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Rewind]]
* [[Eject]]
* [[Steeljaw (G1)|Steeljaw]]
* [[Ramhorn]]}}
'''1988'''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Grand Slam]] & [[Raindance]] (combine to form [[Slamdance]])}}

==Headmasters (Japan-only release)==
===Autobot W Cassettebots===
'''1987''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Graphy]] & [[Noise]] (combine to form [[Decibel]])
* [[Dial]] & [[Saur]] (combine to form [[Legout]]}}

==eHobby Exclusives==
===Cobalt Sentries set===
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Garboil]]
* [[Howlback]]}}
===Kiss Players Position Cassetron Set===
* [[Glit]]]
* [[Rosanna (KP)|Rosanna]]
* [[Sundor]]
===eHobby Twincast re-release set===
* [[Flip Sides]]

==Fiction-only==
===G1===
{{columnlist|1|
* [[:Image:Generic cassettes.jpg|Many]] [[generic]]s.
* The [[Autoscout]] {{storylink|A Prime Problem}}
* [[Playback]] {{storylink|The Big Shutdown!}} }}

===[[Shattered Glass (franchise)|Shattered Glass]]===
{{columnlist|1|
* SG [[Laserbeak (SG)|Laserbeak]] {{storylink|Shattered Expectations}} {{storylink|Shattered Glass (issue)|Shattered Glass}}
* SG [[Buzzsaw (SG)|Buzzsaw]] {{storylink|Shattered Glass (issue)|Shattered Glass}}
* SG [[Frenzy (SG)|Frenzy]] {{storylink|Shattered Glass (issue)|Shattered Glass}} {{storylink|Eye in the Sky}}
* SG [[Ratbat (SG)|Ratbat]] {{storylink|Hasbro Transformers Collectors' Club issue 28}}
* SG [[Rumble (SG)|Rumble]] {{storylink|Shattered Glass (issue)|Shattered Glass}}
* SG [[Ravage (SG)|Ravage]] {{storylink|Eye in the Sky}}
* SG [[Overkill (SG)|Overkill]] {{storylink|Do Over}}
* SG [[Slugfest (SG)|Slugfest]] {{storylink|Dungeons & Dinobots}} {{storylink|Do Over}} }}

==Trivia==
[[Image:DiamondStickerbookRecordicons.jpg|thumb|200px]]
*Although originally referred to as '''Decepticon Cassettes''' in the 1984 toy [[catalog]], all subsequent catalogs would refer to both factions as '''Mini-Cassettes'''.
*Other that have been applied to the subgroups are "Spy Cassettes", used in advertisements featured in the [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)#Overview 2|Marvel UK comics]] and an organizational chart in the [[Transformers Annual 1987]], and "Recordicon", used in a 1986 [[Diamond]] ''Transformers: The Movie'' stickerbook to describe Laserbeak. "Recordicon" has also seen recent use in the ''Shattered Glass'' profiles for Ravage and Ratbat. "Cassetticon" has been used as an unofficial fan-created term for the subgroup.
*The San Diego Comic-Con 2009 reissue of Soundwave refers to the cassettes as "Deployer" figures. The term [[Deployer]] had previously been used for the small animal-to-weapon figures from the Beast Machines toy line.
*In "[[The Agenda (Part 2)|The Agenda]]", despite his reformatting into a [[Predacon (BW)|Predacon]], [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]] retains his mini-cassette alternate mode, which he uses interface with his [[Transwarp cruiser|ship]].
*Although occasionally referred to in fiction or instructions as cassettes, the alt modes are intended to represent 1:1 scale mini-cassettes, such as you would use with a personal recording device.

[[Category:Mini-Cassettes| ]]
[[Category:Subgroups]]

Decepticon Mini-Cassette

2009-12-19T07:08:08Z

68.40.238.196: /* G1 */

{{stub|rest of the fiction, up-top links and maybe short descriptions, toy section needs fleshing out}}
{{factions|decepticon}}
:''The Decepticon Mini-Cassettes are a [[subgroup]] of [[Decepticon]]s (and in [[Ravage (G1)|a single case]], a [[Predacon (BW)|Predacon]]) from the [[Generation 1 (franchise)|Generation 1]] [[continuity family]].''
[[Image:Madman comic Soundwave ejects tapes.jpg|right|400px|thumb|Eject! Operation: Illustration.]]
The '''Decepticon Mini-Cassettes''' (also known as '''Spy Cassettes''' and '''Recordicons''') are [[Decepticon]]s (and in one case, a [[Predacon (BW)|Predacon]]) who, on [[Earth]], transform into analog [[Mini-Cassette|audio cassettes]]. They can fit into [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]]'s chest compartment, though their apparent relationship to Soundwave varies depending on continuity.

Many of these troops have communication or espionage roles. Recycling of body designs is common among them as well.

{{quote|In the days of Megatron, Decepticons developed the art of espionage using cassette technology.|[[Teletraan II]]|[[Secret Files of Teletraan II]]}}

:''Japanese name:'' '''Cassettron'''

==Fiction==
===Marvel comics===
For the most part, the Decepticon Mini-Cassettes did not appear to have a particularly special or unique relationship with Soundwave. Soundwave occasionally carried Laserbeak within his chest compartment, releasing him for surprise attacks. {{storylink|Warrior School!}}.

More often, the Mini-Cassette troops used their small alternate modes for stealth, disguise and transportation by other characters. Rumble and Frenzy frequently hitched rides in the cockpit of the Decepticon jets, for example. {{storylink|DIS-Integrated Circuits!}} Ravage used his cassette form on several occasions to spy on humans. {{storylink|Power Play!}} Three of the cassette troops were taken out of play by Omega Supreme {{storylink|Command Performances!}} and remained inoperative for quite some time, while Ravage was dropped into a mine shaft by the Autobot [[Skids (G1)|Skids]], {{storylink|Showdown!}} taking him out of play for even longer. Only Laserbeak remained operative, acting as a sort of totem of Decepticon leadership. {{storylink|Command Performances!}}

Ratbat assumed a cassette form upon traveling to Earth, and used this disguise to monitor his human accomplices. {{storylink|Buster Witwicky and the Car Wash of Doom}}

===Generation 1 cartoon continuity===

====Generation 1 cartoon====
The Mini-Cassettes acted as a sort of special-missions force, under the command of their host Soundwave. Soundwave could store numerous cassettes within his chest, at times ejecting as many as four at once. {{storylink|The Transformers: The Movie}} {{storylink|Call of the Primitives}}

Laserbeak was frequently sent to spy on the [[Autobot]]s at [[Ark (G1)|Autobot Headquarters]], once using his cassette form to sneak in. {{storylink|Divide and Conquer}} Ravage likewise used his cassette mode to infiltrate [[Teletraan I (G1)|Teletraan I]] and steal information about Earth's resources. {{storylink|More than Meets the Eye, Part 2}} Rumble was used more often to destroy stuff, though all three frequently engaged in battle.

The less-seen Buzzsaw and Frenzy also appeared on occasion, usually acting in conjunction with Laserbeak and Rumble, respectively. {{storylink|Countdown to Extinction (episode)|Countdown to Extinction}} {{storylink|Atlantis, Arise!}} {{storylink|The Immobilizer}}

Years later, Ratbat joined the cassette forces; like Laserbeak, he specialized in spy work and reconnaissance, particularly in tight quarters inaccessible to Laserbeak. {{storylink|Secret Files of Teletraan II}}

Some time after that, Overkill and Slugfest also joined Soundwave's troops. {{storylink|Call of the Primitives}}

====Madman ''The Transformers'' comic====
{{charstubfiction}}
In the year 2001, Soundwave unleashed his army of new Mini-Cassettes to steal the Autobot [[Matrix of Leadership]] from a secure bunker at the construction site of [[Autobot City]] on Earth. {{storylink|The Transformers (Madman)|The Transformers}}

====Japanese cartoon continuity====
=====''Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers'' comic=====
{{storylink|Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers issue 2|Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers #2}} {{storylink|Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers issue 7|Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers #7}}
{{charstubfiction}}
=====''Scramble City'' cartoon=====
{{storylink|Scramble City}}
{{charstubfiction}}
=====''The Headmasters'' cartoon=====
{{storylink|The Mystery of Planet Master}} {{storylink|Birth of the Fantastic Double Prime}}{{storylink|The Great Cassette Operation}} {{storylink|Terror! The Six Shadows}}{{storylink|Cybertron Is in Grave Danger, Part 1}} {{storylink|The Dormant Volcano Mysteriously Erupts}} {{storylink|Explosion on Mars!! MegaZarak Appears}} {{storylink|Return of the Immortal Emperor}}{{storylink|SOS from Planet Sandra}} {{storylink|Battle for Defense of the False Planet}}{{storylink|Head Formation of Friendship}}{{storylink|The Zarak Shield Turns the Tide}}{{storylink|Operation: Destroy the Decepticons}}
{{charstubfiction}}
=====''The Headmasters'' comic=====
{{storylink|The Headmasters issue 8|The Headmasters #8}}
{{charstubfiction}}

===Dreamwave comics continuity===
The origin of the Mini-Cassettes as a whole is unknown. Warriors like Laserbeak and Ravage were seen working with Soundwave in their standard capacity since the beginning of the war. {{storylink|The War Within}} The sole exception is Ratbat, who was once a high-ranking Decepticon, and the leader of his own independent faction during the Dark Ages. {{storylink|War Within: The Dark Ages}} At an unknown point in history, Ratbat was apparently converted into a Mini-Cassette as punishment for some unknown offense. {{storylink|Countdown to Extinction (issue)|Countdown to Extinction}}

Besides Ratbat, the Mini-Cassettes were sent into stasis lock with Soundwave and the rest of the ''[[Nemesis (G1)|Nemesis]]''<nowiki>'</nowiki> crew for four million years on the planet Earth. They reawakened in 1984 to battle [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] and the crew of the ''[[Ark (G1)|Ark]]''. {{storylink|Prime Directive}} When the Transformers eventually returned to [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]], the Mini-Cassettes went with Soundwave under the new command of [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]]. After [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] made a proposal to strike out on their own, however, they turned against Shockwave. Part of the deal was Starscream reuniting Soundwave with Ratbat, whom he had apparently already used as a Mini-Cassette in the past. The Mini-Cassettes returned to Earth with Soundwave and the [[Seeker (body-type)|Seeker]]s. {{storylink|War and Peace}} Megatron eventually returned, reclaiming leadership from Starscream, with the help of Soundwave and the Mini-Cassettes. {{storylink|The Route of All Evil}}

{{note|After returning to Earth, only Rumble and Frenzy made express appearances. Ravage, Laserbeak, Buzzsaw and Ratbat were presumably present inside Soundwave.}}

===IDW comics continuity===
[[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]], [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]], and [[Buzzsaw (G1)|Buzzsaw]] worked with [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] from the beginning as his minions.

[[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]] and [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] were originally energon miners like [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]]. They were the first pre-Decepticons to hitch their wagons to the rising star of Megatron. Megatron had them reformatted into the Cybertronian equivalent of mini-cassettes in order to participate in a surprise attack on the [[Senate]]. They weren't entirely happy about it, but agreed out of fear and loyalty to Megatron. [[Squawkbox]] also participated in that operation.

{{note|It is unclear if Squawkbox was already a minion of Soundwave or if he was also reformatted for that purpose.}}

[[Ratbat (G1)|Senator Ratbat]] was Soundwave's boss up until the Decepticon uprising, at which point, Soundwave slagged him but preserved his spark in a Cybertronian mini-cassette. {{storylink|Megatron Origin}}

Much later, Squawkbox served on the same space station as [[Sixshot]]. {{storylink|Spotlight: Sixshot}}

Ravage and Laserbeak traveled with Soundwave to Earth while keeping an eye on [[Bludgeon (G1)|Bludgeon]]. Buzzsaw, Frenzy, and Rumble were not seen during this period, but the possibility that Soundwave was keeping one or more of them in reserve cannot be ruled out. (You never ''really'' know who he has hidden in there.) It was at this time that Soundwave and at least Ravage and Laserbeak picked up [[1984]]-era Earth [[alternate mode]]s. {{storylink|Spotlight: Soundwave}}

Ratbat spent some time as a regular member of Earth's [[Infiltration protocol|infiltration unit]] doing reconnaissance work. {{storylink|Devastation issue 1}} He had a non-mini-cassete alternate mode.

Laserbeak, Ravage, Frenzy, Rumble, and Ratbat all participated in Megatron's full-scale invasion of Earth as Soundwave's mini-cassette minions. {{storylink|All Hail Megatron}}

===''Hearts of Steel''===
Soundwave, Ravage, Squawkbox, and Rumble and/or Frenzy were among the Decepticons who were awakened in eighteenth century Earth and took on alternate modes from that era. {{storylink|Hearts of Steel}}

It was not revealed what those alternate modes were, but textual notes in Squawkbox's concept art included in the trade paperback indicate that his "upper body transforms into a mechanical gorilla" and his "lower part transforms into mechanical eagle."

===Shattered Glass===
{{charstubfiction}}
{{storylink|Shattered Glass (issue)|Shattered Glass}} {{storylink|Dungeons & Dinobots}} {{storylink|Do Over}} {{storylink|Eye in the Sky}}

==Toys (G1)==
===Decepticons===
'''1984'''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]]
* [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]]
* [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]]
* [[Buzzsaw (G1)|Buzzsaw]]
* [[Ravage (G1)/toys|Ravage]]}}
'''1986'''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Ratbat (G1)|Ratbat]] (only available in a two pack with an unchanged re-release of Frenzy)}}
'''1987'''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Slugfest (G1)|Slugfest]]
* [[Overkill (G1)|Overkill]]}}
'''1988'''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Squawktalk]] & [[Beastbox]] (combine to form [[Squawkbox]])}}

===Autobots===
'''1986'''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Rewind]]
* [[Eject]]
* [[Steeljaw (G1)|Steeljaw]]
* [[Ramhorn]]}}
'''1988'''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Grand Slam]] & [[Raindance]] (combine to form [[Slamdance]])}}

==Headmasters (Japan-only release)==
===Autobot W Cassettebots===
'''1987''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Graphy]] & [[Noise]] (combine to form [[Decibel]])
* [[Dial]] & [[Saur]] (combine to form [[Legout]]}}

==eHobby Exclusives==
===Cobalt Sentries set===
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Garboil]]
* [[Howlback]]}}
===Kiss Players Position Cassetron Set===
* [[Glit]]]
* [[Rosanna (KP)|Rosanna]]
* [[Sundor]]
===eHobby Twincast re-release set===
* [[Flip Sides]]

==Fiction-only==
===G1===
{{columnlist|1|
* [[:Image:Generic cassettes.jpg|Many]] [[generic]]s.
* The [[Autoscout]] {{storylink|A Prime Problem}}
* [[Playback]] {{storylink|The Big Shutdown!}} }}

===[[Shattered Glass (franchise)|Shattered Glass]]===
{{columnlist|1|
* SG [[Laserbeak (SG)|Laserbeak]] {{storylink|Shattered Expectations}} {{storylink|Shattered Glass (issue)|Shattered Glass}}
* SG [[Buzzsaw (SG)|Buzzsaw]] {{storylink|Shattered Glass (issue)|Shattered Glass}}
* SG [[Frenzy (SG)|Frenzy]] {{storylink|Shattered Glass (issue)|Shattered Glass}} {{storylink|Eye in the Sky}}
* SG [[Ratbat (SG)|Ratbat]] {{storylink|Hasbro Transformers Collectors' Club issue 28}}
* SG [[Rumble (SG)|Rumble]] {{storylink|Shattered Glass (issue)|Shattered Glass}}
* SG [[Ravage (SG)|Ravage]] {{storylink|Eye in the Sky}}
* SG [[Overkill (SG)|Overkill]] {{storylink|Do Over}}
* SG [[Slugfest (SG)|Slugfest]] {{storylink|Dungeons & Dinobots}} {{storylink|Do Over}} }}

==Trivia==
[[Image:DiamondStickerbookRecordicons.jpg|thumb|200px]]
*This sub-group was called '''Decepticon Cassettes''' in the 1984 toy [[catalog]], but '''Decepticon Mini-Cassettes''' in all subsequent catalogs.
*The term "Spy Cassettes" was used in advertisements featured in the [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)#Overview 2|Marvel UK comics]] and an organizational chart in the [[Transformers Annual 1987]], while "Recordicon" was used in a 1986 [[Diamond]] ''Transformers: The Movie'' stickerbook to describe Laserbeak. "Recordicon" has seen recent use in the ''Shattered Glass'' profiles for Ravage and Ratbat.
*The term "Cassetticon" is an unofficial fan-term that crops up amongst the fanbase.
*The San Diego Comic-Con 2009 reissue of Soundwave refers to the cassettes as "Deployer" figures. The term [[Deployer]] had previously been used for the small animal-to-weapon figures from the Beast Machines toy line.
*In "[[The Agenda (Part 2)|The Agenda]]", Ravage still has his cassette alternate mode, despite undergoing a complete rebuilding. He fits into a compartment on his [[Transwarp cruiser|ship]].

[[Category:Decepticon subgroups]]
[[Category:Mini-Cassettes| Decepticon]]

Decepticon Mini-Cassette

2009-12-19T07:07:32Z

68.40.238.196: /* G1 */

{{stub|rest of the fiction, up-top links and maybe short descriptions, toy section needs fleshing out}}
{{factions|decepticon}}
:''The Decepticon Mini-Cassettes are a [[subgroup]] of [[Decepticon]]s (and in [[Ravage (G1)|a single case]], a [[Predacon (BW)|Predacon]]) from the [[Generation 1 (franchise)|Generation 1]] [[continuity family]].''
[[Image:Madman comic Soundwave ejects tapes.jpg|right|400px|thumb|Eject! Operation: Illustration.]]
The '''Decepticon Mini-Cassettes''' (also known as '''Spy Cassettes''' and '''Recordicons''') are [[Decepticon]]s (and in one case, a [[Predacon (BW)|Predacon]]) who, on [[Earth]], transform into analog [[Mini-Cassette|audio cassettes]]. They can fit into [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]]'s chest compartment, though their apparent relationship to Soundwave varies depending on continuity.

Many of these troops have communication or espionage roles. Recycling of body designs is common among them as well.

{{quote|In the days of Megatron, Decepticons developed the art of espionage using cassette technology.|[[Teletraan II]]|[[Secret Files of Teletraan II]]}}

:''Japanese name:'' '''Cassettron'''

==Fiction==
===Marvel comics===
For the most part, the Decepticon Mini-Cassettes did not appear to have a particularly special or unique relationship with Soundwave. Soundwave occasionally carried Laserbeak within his chest compartment, releasing him for surprise attacks. {{storylink|Warrior School!}}.

More often, the Mini-Cassette troops used their small alternate modes for stealth, disguise and transportation by other characters. Rumble and Frenzy frequently hitched rides in the cockpit of the Decepticon jets, for example. {{storylink|DIS-Integrated Circuits!}} Ravage used his cassette form on several occasions to spy on humans. {{storylink|Power Play!}} Three of the cassette troops were taken out of play by Omega Supreme {{storylink|Command Performances!}} and remained inoperative for quite some time, while Ravage was dropped into a mine shaft by the Autobot [[Skids (G1)|Skids]], {{storylink|Showdown!}} taking him out of play for even longer. Only Laserbeak remained operative, acting as a sort of totem of Decepticon leadership. {{storylink|Command Performances!}}

Ratbat assumed a cassette form upon traveling to Earth, and used this disguise to monitor his human accomplices. {{storylink|Buster Witwicky and the Car Wash of Doom}}

===Generation 1 cartoon continuity===

====Generation 1 cartoon====
The Mini-Cassettes acted as a sort of special-missions force, under the command of their host Soundwave. Soundwave could store numerous cassettes within his chest, at times ejecting as many as four at once. {{storylink|The Transformers: The Movie}} {{storylink|Call of the Primitives}}

Laserbeak was frequently sent to spy on the [[Autobot]]s at [[Ark (G1)|Autobot Headquarters]], once using his cassette form to sneak in. {{storylink|Divide and Conquer}} Ravage likewise used his cassette mode to infiltrate [[Teletraan I (G1)|Teletraan I]] and steal information about Earth's resources. {{storylink|More than Meets the Eye, Part 2}} Rumble was used more often to destroy stuff, though all three frequently engaged in battle.

The less-seen Buzzsaw and Frenzy also appeared on occasion, usually acting in conjunction with Laserbeak and Rumble, respectively. {{storylink|Countdown to Extinction (episode)|Countdown to Extinction}} {{storylink|Atlantis, Arise!}} {{storylink|The Immobilizer}}

Years later, Ratbat joined the cassette forces; like Laserbeak, he specialized in spy work and reconnaissance, particularly in tight quarters inaccessible to Laserbeak. {{storylink|Secret Files of Teletraan II}}

Some time after that, Overkill and Slugfest also joined Soundwave's troops. {{storylink|Call of the Primitives}}

====Madman ''The Transformers'' comic====
{{charstubfiction}}
In the year 2001, Soundwave unleashed his army of new Mini-Cassettes to steal the Autobot [[Matrix of Leadership]] from a secure bunker at the construction site of [[Autobot City]] on Earth. {{storylink|The Transformers (Madman)|The Transformers}}

====Japanese cartoon continuity====
=====''Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers'' comic=====
{{storylink|Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers issue 2|Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers #2}} {{storylink|Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers issue 7|Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers #7}}
{{charstubfiction}}
=====''Scramble City'' cartoon=====
{{storylink|Scramble City}}
{{charstubfiction}}
=====''The Headmasters'' cartoon=====
{{storylink|The Mystery of Planet Master}} {{storylink|Birth of the Fantastic Double Prime}}{{storylink|The Great Cassette Operation}} {{storylink|Terror! The Six Shadows}}{{storylink|Cybertron Is in Grave Danger, Part 1}} {{storylink|The Dormant Volcano Mysteriously Erupts}} {{storylink|Explosion on Mars!! MegaZarak Appears}} {{storylink|Return of the Immortal Emperor}}{{storylink|SOS from Planet Sandra}} {{storylink|Battle for Defense of the False Planet}}{{storylink|Head Formation of Friendship}}{{storylink|The Zarak Shield Turns the Tide}}{{storylink|Operation: Destroy the Decepticons}}
{{charstubfiction}}
=====''The Headmasters'' comic=====
{{storylink|The Headmasters issue 8|The Headmasters #8}}
{{charstubfiction}}

===Dreamwave comics continuity===
The origin of the Mini-Cassettes as a whole is unknown. Warriors like Laserbeak and Ravage were seen working with Soundwave in their standard capacity since the beginning of the war. {{storylink|The War Within}} The sole exception is Ratbat, who was once a high-ranking Decepticon, and the leader of his own independent faction during the Dark Ages. {{storylink|War Within: The Dark Ages}} At an unknown point in history, Ratbat was apparently converted into a Mini-Cassette as punishment for some unknown offense. {{storylink|Countdown to Extinction (issue)|Countdown to Extinction}}

Besides Ratbat, the Mini-Cassettes were sent into stasis lock with Soundwave and the rest of the ''[[Nemesis (G1)|Nemesis]]''<nowiki>'</nowiki> crew for four million years on the planet Earth. They reawakened in 1984 to battle [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] and the crew of the ''[[Ark (G1)|Ark]]''. {{storylink|Prime Directive}} When the Transformers eventually returned to [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]], the Mini-Cassettes went with Soundwave under the new command of [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]]. After [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] made a proposal to strike out on their own, however, they turned against Shockwave. Part of the deal was Starscream reuniting Soundwave with Ratbat, whom he had apparently already used as a Mini-Cassette in the past. The Mini-Cassettes returned to Earth with Soundwave and the [[Seeker (body-type)|Seeker]]s. {{storylink|War and Peace}} Megatron eventually returned, reclaiming leadership from Starscream, with the help of Soundwave and the Mini-Cassettes. {{storylink|The Route of All Evil}}

{{note|After returning to Earth, only Rumble and Frenzy made express appearances. Ravage, Laserbeak, Buzzsaw and Ratbat were presumably present inside Soundwave.}}

===IDW comics continuity===
[[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]], [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]], and [[Buzzsaw (G1)|Buzzsaw]] worked with [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] from the beginning as his minions.

[[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]] and [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] were originally energon miners like [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]]. They were the first pre-Decepticons to hitch their wagons to the rising star of Megatron. Megatron had them reformatted into the Cybertronian equivalent of mini-cassettes in order to participate in a surprise attack on the [[Senate]]. They weren't entirely happy about it, but agreed out of fear and loyalty to Megatron. [[Squawkbox]] also participated in that operation.

{{note|It is unclear if Squawkbox was already a minion of Soundwave or if he was also reformatted for that purpose.}}

[[Ratbat (G1)|Senator Ratbat]] was Soundwave's boss up until the Decepticon uprising, at which point, Soundwave slagged him but preserved his spark in a Cybertronian mini-cassette. {{storylink|Megatron Origin}}

Much later, Squawkbox served on the same space station as [[Sixshot]]. {{storylink|Spotlight: Sixshot}}

Ravage and Laserbeak traveled with Soundwave to Earth while keeping an eye on [[Bludgeon (G1)|Bludgeon]]. Buzzsaw, Frenzy, and Rumble were not seen during this period, but the possibility that Soundwave was keeping one or more of them in reserve cannot be ruled out. (You never ''really'' know who he has hidden in there.) It was at this time that Soundwave and at least Ravage and Laserbeak picked up [[1984]]-era Earth [[alternate mode]]s. {{storylink|Spotlight: Soundwave}}

Ratbat spent some time as a regular member of Earth's [[Infiltration protocol|infiltration unit]] doing reconnaissance work. {{storylink|Devastation issue 1}} He had a non-mini-cassete alternate mode.

Laserbeak, Ravage, Frenzy, Rumble, and Ratbat all participated in Megatron's full-scale invasion of Earth as Soundwave's mini-cassette minions. {{storylink|All Hail Megatron}}

===''Hearts of Steel''===
Soundwave, Ravage, Squawkbox, and Rumble and/or Frenzy were among the Decepticons who were awakened in eighteenth century Earth and took on alternate modes from that era. {{storylink|Hearts of Steel}}

It was not revealed what those alternate modes were, but textual notes in Squawkbox's concept art included in the trade paperback indicate that his "upper body transforms into a mechanical gorilla" and his "lower part transforms into mechanical eagle."

===Shattered Glass===
{{charstubfiction}}
{{storylink|Shattered Glass (issue)|Shattered Glass}} {{storylink|Dungeons & Dinobots}} {{storylink|Do Over}} {{storylink|Eye in the Sky}}

==Toys (G1)==
===Decepticons===
'''1984'''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]]
* [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]]
* [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]]
* [[Buzzsaw (G1)|Buzzsaw]]
* [[Ravage (G1)/toys|Ravage]]}}
'''1986'''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Ratbat (G1)|Ratbat]] (only available in a two pack with an unchanged re-release of Frenzy)}}
'''1987'''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Slugfest (G1)|Slugfest]]
* [[Overkill (G1)|Overkill]]}}
'''1988'''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Squawktalk]] & [[Beastbox]] (combine to form [[Squawkbox]])}}

===Autobots===
'''1986'''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Rewind]]
* [[Eject]]
* [[Steeljaw (G1)|Steeljaw]]
* [[Ramhorn]]}}
'''1988'''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Grand Slam]] & [[Raindance]] (combine to form [[Slamdance]])}}

==Headmasters (Japan-only release)==
===Autobot W Cassettebots===
'''1987''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Graphy]] & [[Noise]] (combine to form [[Decibel]])
* [[Dial]] & [[Saur]] (combine to form [[Legout]]}}

==eHobby Exclusives==
===Cobalt Sentries set===
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Garboil]]
* [[Howlback]]}}
===Kiss Players Position Cassetron Set===
* [[Glit]]]
* [[Rosanna (KP)|Rosanna]]
* [[Sundor]]
===eHobby Twincast re-release set===
* [[Flip Sides]]

==Fiction-only==
===G1===
{{columnlist|1|
* [[:Image:Generic cassettes.jpg|Many]] [[generic]]s.
* The [[Autoscout]]{{storylink|A Prime Problem}}
* [[Playback]]{{storylink|The Big Shutdown!}} }}

===[[Shattered Glass (franchise)|Shattered Glass]]===
{{columnlist|1|
* SG [[Laserbeak (SG)|Laserbeak]] {{storylink|Shattered Expectations}} {{storylink|Shattered Glass (issue)|Shattered Glass}}
* SG [[Buzzsaw (SG)|Buzzsaw]] {{storylink|Shattered Glass (issue)|Shattered Glass}}
* SG [[Frenzy (SG)|Frenzy]] {{storylink|Shattered Glass (issue)|Shattered Glass}} {{storylink|Eye in the Sky}}
* SG [[Ratbat (SG)|Ratbat]] {{storylink|Hasbro Transformers Collectors' Club issue 28}}
* SG [[Rumble (SG)|Rumble]] {{storylink|Shattered Glass (issue)|Shattered Glass}}
* SG [[Ravage (SG)|Ravage]] {{storylink|Eye in the Sky}}
* SG [[Overkill (SG)|Overkill]] {{storylink|Do Over}}
* SG [[Slugfest (SG)|Slugfest]] {{storylink|Dungeons & Dinobots}} {{storylink|Do Over}} }}

==Trivia==
[[Image:DiamondStickerbookRecordicons.jpg|thumb|200px]]
*This sub-group was called '''Decepticon Cassettes''' in the 1984 toy [[catalog]], but '''Decepticon Mini-Cassettes''' in all subsequent catalogs.
*The term "Spy Cassettes" was used in advertisements featured in the [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)#Overview 2|Marvel UK comics]] and an organizational chart in the [[Transformers Annual 1987]], while "Recordicon" was used in a 1986 [[Diamond]] ''Transformers: The Movie'' stickerbook to describe Laserbeak. "Recordicon" has seen recent use in the ''Shattered Glass'' profiles for Ravage and Ratbat.
*The term "Cassetticon" is an unofficial fan-term that crops up amongst the fanbase.
*The San Diego Comic-Con 2009 reissue of Soundwave refers to the cassettes as "Deployer" figures. The term [[Deployer]] had previously been used for the small animal-to-weapon figures from the Beast Machines toy line.
*In "[[The Agenda (Part 2)|The Agenda]]", Ravage still has his cassette alternate mode, despite undergoing a complete rebuilding. He fits into a compartment on his [[Transwarp cruiser|ship]].

[[Category:Decepticon subgroups]]
[[Category:Mini-Cassettes| Decepticon]]

Decepticon Mini-Cassette

2009-12-19T07:07:02Z

68.40.238.196: /* G1 */

{{stub|rest of the fiction, up-top links and maybe short descriptions, toy section needs fleshing out}}
{{factions|decepticon}}
:''The Decepticon Mini-Cassettes are a [[subgroup]] of [[Decepticon]]s (and in [[Ravage (G1)|a single case]], a [[Predacon (BW)|Predacon]]) from the [[Generation 1 (franchise)|Generation 1]] [[continuity family]].''
[[Image:Madman comic Soundwave ejects tapes.jpg|right|400px|thumb|Eject! Operation: Illustration.]]
The '''Decepticon Mini-Cassettes''' (also known as '''Spy Cassettes''' and '''Recordicons''') are [[Decepticon]]s (and in one case, a [[Predacon (BW)|Predacon]]) who, on [[Earth]], transform into analog [[Mini-Cassette|audio cassettes]]. They can fit into [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]]'s chest compartment, though their apparent relationship to Soundwave varies depending on continuity.

Many of these troops have communication or espionage roles. Recycling of body designs is common among them as well.

{{quote|In the days of Megatron, Decepticons developed the art of espionage using cassette technology.|[[Teletraan II]]|[[Secret Files of Teletraan II]]}}

:''Japanese name:'' '''Cassettron'''

==Fiction==
===Marvel comics===
For the most part, the Decepticon Mini-Cassettes did not appear to have a particularly special or unique relationship with Soundwave. Soundwave occasionally carried Laserbeak within his chest compartment, releasing him for surprise attacks. {{storylink|Warrior School!}}.

More often, the Mini-Cassette troops used their small alternate modes for stealth, disguise and transportation by other characters. Rumble and Frenzy frequently hitched rides in the cockpit of the Decepticon jets, for example. {{storylink|DIS-Integrated Circuits!}} Ravage used his cassette form on several occasions to spy on humans. {{storylink|Power Play!}} Three of the cassette troops were taken out of play by Omega Supreme {{storylink|Command Performances!}} and remained inoperative for quite some time, while Ravage was dropped into a mine shaft by the Autobot [[Skids (G1)|Skids]], {{storylink|Showdown!}} taking him out of play for even longer. Only Laserbeak remained operative, acting as a sort of totem of Decepticon leadership. {{storylink|Command Performances!}}

Ratbat assumed a cassette form upon traveling to Earth, and used this disguise to monitor his human accomplices. {{storylink|Buster Witwicky and the Car Wash of Doom}}

===Generation 1 cartoon continuity===

====Generation 1 cartoon====
The Mini-Cassettes acted as a sort of special-missions force, under the command of their host Soundwave. Soundwave could store numerous cassettes within his chest, at times ejecting as many as four at once. {{storylink|The Transformers: The Movie}} {{storylink|Call of the Primitives}}

Laserbeak was frequently sent to spy on the [[Autobot]]s at [[Ark (G1)|Autobot Headquarters]], once using his cassette form to sneak in. {{storylink|Divide and Conquer}} Ravage likewise used his cassette mode to infiltrate [[Teletraan I (G1)|Teletraan I]] and steal information about Earth's resources. {{storylink|More than Meets the Eye, Part 2}} Rumble was used more often to destroy stuff, though all three frequently engaged in battle.

The less-seen Buzzsaw and Frenzy also appeared on occasion, usually acting in conjunction with Laserbeak and Rumble, respectively. {{storylink|Countdown to Extinction (episode)|Countdown to Extinction}} {{storylink|Atlantis, Arise!}} {{storylink|The Immobilizer}}

Years later, Ratbat joined the cassette forces; like Laserbeak, he specialized in spy work and reconnaissance, particularly in tight quarters inaccessible to Laserbeak. {{storylink|Secret Files of Teletraan II}}

Some time after that, Overkill and Slugfest also joined Soundwave's troops. {{storylink|Call of the Primitives}}

====Madman ''The Transformers'' comic====
{{charstubfiction}}
In the year 2001, Soundwave unleashed his army of new Mini-Cassettes to steal the Autobot [[Matrix of Leadership]] from a secure bunker at the construction site of [[Autobot City]] on Earth. {{storylink|The Transformers (Madman)|The Transformers}}

====Japanese cartoon continuity====
=====''Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers'' comic=====
{{storylink|Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers issue 2|Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers #2}} {{storylink|Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers issue 7|Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers #7}}
{{charstubfiction}}
=====''Scramble City'' cartoon=====
{{storylink|Scramble City}}
{{charstubfiction}}
=====''The Headmasters'' cartoon=====
{{storylink|The Mystery of Planet Master}} {{storylink|Birth of the Fantastic Double Prime}}{{storylink|The Great Cassette Operation}} {{storylink|Terror! The Six Shadows}}{{storylink|Cybertron Is in Grave Danger, Part 1}} {{storylink|The Dormant Volcano Mysteriously Erupts}} {{storylink|Explosion on Mars!! MegaZarak Appears}} {{storylink|Return of the Immortal Emperor}}{{storylink|SOS from Planet Sandra}} {{storylink|Battle for Defense of the False Planet}}{{storylink|Head Formation of Friendship}}{{storylink|The Zarak Shield Turns the Tide}}{{storylink|Operation: Destroy the Decepticons}}
{{charstubfiction}}
=====''The Headmasters'' comic=====
{{storylink|The Headmasters issue 8|The Headmasters #8}}
{{charstubfiction}}

===Dreamwave comics continuity===
The origin of the Mini-Cassettes as a whole is unknown. Warriors like Laserbeak and Ravage were seen working with Soundwave in their standard capacity since the beginning of the war. {{storylink|The War Within}} The sole exception is Ratbat, who was once a high-ranking Decepticon, and the leader of his own independent faction during the Dark Ages. {{storylink|War Within: The Dark Ages}} At an unknown point in history, Ratbat was apparently converted into a Mini-Cassette as punishment for some unknown offense. {{storylink|Countdown to Extinction (issue)|Countdown to Extinction}}

Besides Ratbat, the Mini-Cassettes were sent into stasis lock with Soundwave and the rest of the ''[[Nemesis (G1)|Nemesis]]''<nowiki>'</nowiki> crew for four million years on the planet Earth. They reawakened in 1984 to battle [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] and the crew of the ''[[Ark (G1)|Ark]]''. {{storylink|Prime Directive}} When the Transformers eventually returned to [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]], the Mini-Cassettes went with Soundwave under the new command of [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]]. After [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] made a proposal to strike out on their own, however, they turned against Shockwave. Part of the deal was Starscream reuniting Soundwave with Ratbat, whom he had apparently already used as a Mini-Cassette in the past. The Mini-Cassettes returned to Earth with Soundwave and the [[Seeker (body-type)|Seeker]]s. {{storylink|War and Peace}} Megatron eventually returned, reclaiming leadership from Starscream, with the help of Soundwave and the Mini-Cassettes. {{storylink|The Route of All Evil}}

{{note|After returning to Earth, only Rumble and Frenzy made express appearances. Ravage, Laserbeak, Buzzsaw and Ratbat were presumably present inside Soundwave.}}

===IDW comics continuity===
[[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]], [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]], and [[Buzzsaw (G1)|Buzzsaw]] worked with [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] from the beginning as his minions.

[[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]] and [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] were originally energon miners like [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]]. They were the first pre-Decepticons to hitch their wagons to the rising star of Megatron. Megatron had them reformatted into the Cybertronian equivalent of mini-cassettes in order to participate in a surprise attack on the [[Senate]]. They weren't entirely happy about it, but agreed out of fear and loyalty to Megatron. [[Squawkbox]] also participated in that operation.

{{note|It is unclear if Squawkbox was already a minion of Soundwave or if he was also reformatted for that purpose.}}

[[Ratbat (G1)|Senator Ratbat]] was Soundwave's boss up until the Decepticon uprising, at which point, Soundwave slagged him but preserved his spark in a Cybertronian mini-cassette. {{storylink|Megatron Origin}}

Much later, Squawkbox served on the same space station as [[Sixshot]]. {{storylink|Spotlight: Sixshot}}

Ravage and Laserbeak traveled with Soundwave to Earth while keeping an eye on [[Bludgeon (G1)|Bludgeon]]. Buzzsaw, Frenzy, and Rumble were not seen during this period, but the possibility that Soundwave was keeping one or more of them in reserve cannot be ruled out. (You never ''really'' know who he has hidden in there.) It was at this time that Soundwave and at least Ravage and Laserbeak picked up [[1984]]-era Earth [[alternate mode]]s. {{storylink|Spotlight: Soundwave}}

Ratbat spent some time as a regular member of Earth's [[Infiltration protocol|infiltration unit]] doing reconnaissance work. {{storylink|Devastation issue 1}} He had a non-mini-cassete alternate mode.

Laserbeak, Ravage, Frenzy, Rumble, and Ratbat all participated in Megatron's full-scale invasion of Earth as Soundwave's mini-cassette minions. {{storylink|All Hail Megatron}}

===''Hearts of Steel''===
Soundwave, Ravage, Squawkbox, and Rumble and/or Frenzy were among the Decepticons who were awakened in eighteenth century Earth and took on alternate modes from that era. {{storylink|Hearts of Steel}}

It was not revealed what those alternate modes were, but textual notes in Squawkbox's concept art included in the trade paperback indicate that his "upper body transforms into a mechanical gorilla" and his "lower part transforms into mechanical eagle."

===Shattered Glass===
{{charstubfiction}}
{{storylink|Shattered Glass (issue)|Shattered Glass}} {{storylink|Dungeons & Dinobots}} {{storylink|Do Over}} {{storylink|Eye in the Sky}}

==Toys (G1)==
===Decepticons===
'''1984'''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]]
* [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]]
* [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]]
* [[Buzzsaw (G1)|Buzzsaw]]
* [[Ravage (G1)/toys|Ravage]]}}
'''1986'''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Ratbat (G1)|Ratbat]] (only available in a two pack with an unchanged re-release of Frenzy)}}
'''1987'''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Slugfest (G1)|Slugfest]]
* [[Overkill (G1)|Overkill]]}}
'''1988'''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Squawktalk]] & [[Beastbox]] (combine to form [[Squawkbox]])}}

===Autobots===
'''1986'''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Rewind]]
* [[Eject]]
* [[Steeljaw (G1)|Steeljaw]]
* [[Ramhorn]]}}
'''1988'''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Grand Slam]] & [[Raindance]] (combine to form [[Slamdance]])}}

==Headmasters (Japan-only release)==
===Autobot W Cassettebots===
'''1987''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Graphy]] & [[Noise]] (combine to form [[Decibel]])
* [[Dial]] & [[Saur]] (combine to form [[Legout]]}}

==eHobby Exclusives==
===Cobalt Sentries set===
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Garboil]]
* [[Howlback]]}}
===Kiss Players Position Cassetron Set===
* [[Glit]]]
* [[Rosanna (KP)|Rosanna]]
* [[Sundor]]
===eHobby Twincast re-release set===
* [[Flip Sides]]

==Fiction-only==
===G1===
{{columnlist|1|
* [[:Image:Generic cassettes.jpg|Many]] [[generic]]s.
* The [[Autoscout]]{{storylink|A Prime Problem}} }}
* [[Playback]]{{storylink|The Big Shutdown!}} }}

===[[Shattered Glass (franchise)|Shattered Glass]]===
{{columnlist|1|
* SG [[Laserbeak (SG)|Laserbeak]] {{storylink|Shattered Expectations}} {{storylink|Shattered Glass (issue)|Shattered Glass}}
* SG [[Buzzsaw (SG)|Buzzsaw]] {{storylink|Shattered Glass (issue)|Shattered Glass}}
* SG [[Frenzy (SG)|Frenzy]] {{storylink|Shattered Glass (issue)|Shattered Glass}} {{storylink|Eye in the Sky}}
* SG [[Ratbat (SG)|Ratbat]] {{storylink|Hasbro Transformers Collectors' Club issue 28}}
* SG [[Rumble (SG)|Rumble]] {{storylink|Shattered Glass (issue)|Shattered Glass}}
* SG [[Ravage (SG)|Ravage]] {{storylink|Eye in the Sky}}
* SG [[Overkill (SG)|Overkill]] {{storylink|Do Over}}
* SG [[Slugfest (SG)|Slugfest]] {{storylink|Dungeons & Dinobots}} {{storylink|Do Over}} }}

==Trivia==
[[Image:DiamondStickerbookRecordicons.jpg|thumb|200px]]
*This sub-group was called '''Decepticon Cassettes''' in the 1984 toy [[catalog]], but '''Decepticon Mini-Cassettes''' in all subsequent catalogs.
*The term "Spy Cassettes" was used in advertisements featured in the [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)#Overview 2|Marvel UK comics]] and an organizational chart in the [[Transformers Annual 1987]], while "Recordicon" was used in a 1986 [[Diamond]] ''Transformers: The Movie'' stickerbook to describe Laserbeak. "Recordicon" has seen recent use in the ''Shattered Glass'' profiles for Ravage and Ratbat.
*The term "Cassetticon" is an unofficial fan-term that crops up amongst the fanbase.
*The San Diego Comic-Con 2009 reissue of Soundwave refers to the cassettes as "Deployer" figures. The term [[Deployer]] had previously been used for the small animal-to-weapon figures from the Beast Machines toy line.
*In "[[The Agenda (Part 2)|The Agenda]]", Ravage still has his cassette alternate mode, despite undergoing a complete rebuilding. He fits into a compartment on his [[Transwarp cruiser|ship]].

[[Category:Decepticon subgroups]]
[[Category:Mini-Cassettes| Decepticon]]

Decepticon Mini-Cassette

2009-12-19T06:45:15Z

68.40.238.196:

{{stub|rest of the fiction, up-top links and maybe short descriptions, toy section needs fleshing out}}
{{factions|decepticon}}
:''The Decepticon Mini-Cassettes are a [[subgroup]] of [[Decepticon]]s (and in [[Ravage (G1)|a single case]], a [[Predacon (BW)|Predacon]]) from the [[Generation 1 (franchise)|Generation 1]] [[continuity family]].''
[[Image:Madman comic Soundwave ejects tapes.jpg|right|400px|thumb|Eject! Operation: Illustration.]]
The '''Decepticon Mini-Cassettes''' (also known as '''Spy Cassettes''' and '''Recordicons''') are [[Decepticon]]s (and in one case, a [[Predacon (BW)|Predacon]]) who, on [[Earth]], transform into analog [[Mini-Cassette|audio cassettes]]. They can fit into [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]]'s chest compartment, though their apparent relationship to Soundwave varies depending on continuity.

Many of these troops have communication or espionage roles. Recycling of body designs is common among them as well.

{{quote|In the days of Megatron, Decepticons developed the art of espionage using cassette technology.|[[Teletraan II]]|[[Secret Files of Teletraan II]]}}

:''Japanese name:'' '''Cassettron'''

==Fiction==
===Marvel comics===
For the most part, the Decepticon Mini-Cassettes did not appear to have a particularly special or unique relationship with Soundwave. Soundwave occasionally carried Laserbeak within his chest compartment, releasing him for surprise attacks. {{storylink|Warrior School!}}.

More often, the Mini-Cassette troops used their small alternate modes for stealth, disguise and transportation by other characters. Rumble and Frenzy frequently hitched rides in the cockpit of the Decepticon jets, for example. {{storylink|DIS-Integrated Circuits!}} Ravage used his cassette form on several occasions to spy on humans. {{storylink|Power Play!}} Three of the cassette troops were taken out of play by Omega Supreme {{storylink|Command Performances!}} and remained inoperative for quite some time, while Ravage was dropped into a mine shaft by the Autobot [[Skids (G1)|Skids]], {{storylink|Showdown!}} taking him out of play for even longer. Only Laserbeak remained operative, acting as a sort of totem of Decepticon leadership. {{storylink|Command Performances!}}

Ratbat assumed a cassette form upon traveling to Earth, and used this disguise to monitor his human accomplices. {{storylink|Buster Witwicky and the Car Wash of Doom}}

===Generation 1 cartoon continuity===

====Generation 1 cartoon====
The Mini-Cassettes acted as a sort of special-missions force, under the command of their host Soundwave. Soundwave could store numerous cassettes within his chest, at times ejecting as many as four at once. {{storylink|The Transformers: The Movie}} {{storylink|Call of the Primitives}}

Laserbeak was frequently sent to spy on the [[Autobot]]s at [[Ark (G1)|Autobot Headquarters]], once using his cassette form to sneak in. {{storylink|Divide and Conquer}} Ravage likewise used his cassette mode to infiltrate [[Teletraan I (G1)|Teletraan I]] and steal information about Earth's resources. {{storylink|More than Meets the Eye, Part 2}} Rumble was used more often to destroy stuff, though all three frequently engaged in battle.

The less-seen Buzzsaw and Frenzy also appeared on occasion, usually acting in conjunction with Laserbeak and Rumble, respectively. {{storylink|Countdown to Extinction (episode)|Countdown to Extinction}} {{storylink|Atlantis, Arise!}} {{storylink|The Immobilizer}}

Years later, Ratbat joined the cassette forces; like Laserbeak, he specialized in spy work and reconnaissance, particularly in tight quarters inaccessible to Laserbeak. {{storylink|Secret Files of Teletraan II}}

Some time after that, Overkill and Slugfest also joined Soundwave's troops. {{storylink|Call of the Primitives}}

====Madman ''The Transformers'' comic====
{{charstubfiction}}
In the year 2001, Soundwave unleashed his army of new Mini-Cassettes to steal the Autobot [[Matrix of Leadership]] from a secure bunker at the construction site of [[Autobot City]] on Earth. {{storylink|The Transformers (Madman)|The Transformers}}

====Japanese cartoon continuity====
=====''Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers'' comic=====
{{storylink|Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers issue 2|Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers #2}} {{storylink|Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers issue 7|Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers #7}}
{{charstubfiction}}
=====''Scramble City'' cartoon=====
{{storylink|Scramble City}}
{{charstubfiction}}
=====''The Headmasters'' cartoon=====
{{storylink|The Mystery of Planet Master}} {{storylink|Birth of the Fantastic Double Prime}}{{storylink|The Great Cassette Operation}} {{storylink|Terror! The Six Shadows}}{{storylink|Cybertron Is in Grave Danger, Part 1}} {{storylink|The Dormant Volcano Mysteriously Erupts}} {{storylink|Explosion on Mars!! MegaZarak Appears}} {{storylink|Return of the Immortal Emperor}}{{storylink|SOS from Planet Sandra}} {{storylink|Battle for Defense of the False Planet}}{{storylink|Head Formation of Friendship}}{{storylink|The Zarak Shield Turns the Tide}}{{storylink|Operation: Destroy the Decepticons}}
{{charstubfiction}}
=====''The Headmasters'' comic=====
{{storylink|The Headmasters issue 8|The Headmasters #8}}
{{charstubfiction}}

===Dreamwave comics continuity===
The origin of the Mini-Cassettes as a whole is unknown. Warriors like Laserbeak and Ravage were seen working with Soundwave in their standard capacity since the beginning of the war. {{storylink|The War Within}} The sole exception is Ratbat, who was once a high-ranking Decepticon, and the leader of his own independent faction during the Dark Ages. {{storylink|War Within: The Dark Ages}} At an unknown point in history, Ratbat was apparently converted into a Mini-Cassette as punishment for some unknown offense. {{storylink|Countdown to Extinction (issue)|Countdown to Extinction}}

Besides Ratbat, the Mini-Cassettes were sent into stasis lock with Soundwave and the rest of the ''[[Nemesis (G1)|Nemesis]]''<nowiki>'</nowiki> crew for four million years on the planet Earth. They reawakened in 1984 to battle [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] and the crew of the ''[[Ark (G1)|Ark]]''. {{storylink|Prime Directive}} When the Transformers eventually returned to [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]], the Mini-Cassettes went with Soundwave under the new command of [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]]. After [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] made a proposal to strike out on their own, however, they turned against Shockwave. Part of the deal was Starscream reuniting Soundwave with Ratbat, whom he had apparently already used as a Mini-Cassette in the past. The Mini-Cassettes returned to Earth with Soundwave and the [[Seeker (body-type)|Seeker]]s. {{storylink|War and Peace}} Megatron eventually returned, reclaiming leadership from Starscream, with the help of Soundwave and the Mini-Cassettes. {{storylink|The Route of All Evil}}

{{note|After returning to Earth, only Rumble and Frenzy made express appearances. Ravage, Laserbeak, Buzzsaw and Ratbat were presumably present inside Soundwave.}}

===IDW comics continuity===
[[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]], [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]], and [[Buzzsaw (G1)|Buzzsaw]] worked with [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] from the beginning as his minions.

[[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]] and [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] were originally energon miners like [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]]. They were the first pre-Decepticons to hitch their wagons to the rising star of Megatron. Megatron had them reformatted into the Cybertronian equivalent of mini-cassettes in order to participate in a surprise attack on the [[Senate]]. They weren't entirely happy about it, but agreed out of fear and loyalty to Megatron. [[Squawkbox]] also participated in that operation.

{{note|It is unclear if Squawkbox was already a minion of Soundwave or if he was also reformatted for that purpose.}}

[[Ratbat (G1)|Senator Ratbat]] was Soundwave's boss up until the Decepticon uprising, at which point, Soundwave slagged him but preserved his spark in a Cybertronian mini-cassette. {{storylink|Megatron Origin}}

Much later, Squawkbox served on the same space station as [[Sixshot]]. {{storylink|Spotlight: Sixshot}}

Ravage and Laserbeak traveled with Soundwave to Earth while keeping an eye on [[Bludgeon (G1)|Bludgeon]]. Buzzsaw, Frenzy, and Rumble were not seen during this period, but the possibility that Soundwave was keeping one or more of them in reserve cannot be ruled out. (You never ''really'' know who he has hidden in there.) It was at this time that Soundwave and at least Ravage and Laserbeak picked up [[1984]]-era Earth [[alternate mode]]s. {{storylink|Spotlight: Soundwave}}

Ratbat spent some time as a regular member of Earth's [[Infiltration protocol|infiltration unit]] doing reconnaissance work. {{storylink|Devastation issue 1}} He had a non-mini-cassete alternate mode.

Laserbeak, Ravage, Frenzy, Rumble, and Ratbat all participated in Megatron's full-scale invasion of Earth as Soundwave's mini-cassette minions. {{storylink|All Hail Megatron}}

===''Hearts of Steel''===
Soundwave, Ravage, Squawkbox, and Rumble and/or Frenzy were among the Decepticons who were awakened in eighteenth century Earth and took on alternate modes from that era. {{storylink|Hearts of Steel}}

It was not revealed what those alternate modes were, but textual notes in Squawkbox's concept art included in the trade paperback indicate that his "upper body transforms into a mechanical gorilla" and his "lower part transforms into mechanical eagle."

===Shattered Glass===
{{charstubfiction}}
{{storylink|Shattered Glass (issue)|Shattered Glass}} {{storylink|Dungeons & Dinobots}} {{storylink|Do Over}} {{storylink|Eye in the Sky}}

==Toys (G1)==
===Decepticons===
'''1984'''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]]
* [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]]
* [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]]
* [[Buzzsaw (G1)|Buzzsaw]]
* [[Ravage (G1)/toys|Ravage]]}}
'''1986'''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Ratbat (G1)|Ratbat]] (only available in a two pack with an unchanged re-release of Frenzy)}}
'''1987'''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Slugfest (G1)|Slugfest]]
* [[Overkill (G1)|Overkill]]}}
'''1988'''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Squawktalk]] & [[Beastbox]] (combine to form [[Squawkbox]])}}

===Autobots===
'''1986'''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Rewind]]
* [[Eject]]
* [[Steeljaw (G1)|Steeljaw]]
* [[Ramhorn]]}}
'''1988'''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Grand Slam]] & [[Raindance]] (combine to form [[Slamdance]])}}

==Headmasters (Japan-only release)==
===Autobot W Cassettebots===
'''1987''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Graphy]] & [[Noise]] (combine to form [[Decibel]])
* [[Dial]] & [[Saur]] (combine to form [[Legout]]}}

==eHobby Exclusives==
===Cobalt Sentries set===
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Garboil]]
* [[Howlback]]}}
===Kiss Players Position Cassetron Set===
* [[Glit]]]
* [[Rosanna (KP)|Rosanna]]
* [[Sundor]]
===eHobby Twincast re-release set===
* [[Flip Sides]]

==Fiction-only==
===G1===
{{columnlist|1|
* [[:Image:Generic cassettes.jpg|Many]] [[generic]]s.
* The [[Autoscout]]{{storylink|A Prime Problem}} }}
===[[Shattered Glass (franchise)|Shattered Glass]]===
{{columnlist|1|
* SG [[Laserbeak (SG)|Laserbeak]] {{storylink|Shattered Expectations}} {{storylink|Shattered Glass (issue)|Shattered Glass}}
* SG [[Buzzsaw (SG)|Buzzsaw]] {{storylink|Shattered Glass (issue)|Shattered Glass}}
* SG [[Frenzy (SG)|Frenzy]] {{storylink|Shattered Glass (issue)|Shattered Glass}} {{storylink|Eye in the Sky}}
* SG [[Ratbat (SG)|Ratbat]] {{storylink|Hasbro Transformers Collectors' Club issue 28}}
* SG [[Rumble (SG)|Rumble]] {{storylink|Shattered Glass (issue)|Shattered Glass}}
* SG [[Ravage (SG)|Ravage]] {{storylink|Eye in the Sky}}
* SG [[Overkill (SG)|Overkill]] {{storylink|Do Over}}
* SG [[Slugfest (SG)|Slugfest]] {{storylink|Dungeons & Dinobots}} {{storylink|Do Over}} }}

==Trivia==
[[Image:DiamondStickerbookRecordicons.jpg|thumb|200px]]
*This sub-group was called '''Decepticon Cassettes''' in the 1984 toy [[catalog]], but '''Decepticon Mini-Cassettes''' in all subsequent catalogs.
*The term "Spy Cassettes" was used in advertisements featured in the [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)#Overview 2|Marvel UK comics]] and an organizational chart in the [[Transformers Annual 1987]], while "Recordicon" was used in a 1986 [[Diamond]] ''Transformers: The Movie'' stickerbook to describe Laserbeak. "Recordicon" has seen recent use in the ''Shattered Glass'' profiles for Ravage and Ratbat.
*The term "Cassetticon" is an unofficial fan-term that crops up amongst the fanbase.
*The San Diego Comic-Con 2009 reissue of Soundwave refers to the cassettes as "Deployer" figures. The term [[Deployer]] had previously been used for the small animal-to-weapon figures from the Beast Machines toy line.
*In "[[The Agenda (Part 2)|The Agenda]]", Ravage still has his cassette alternate mode, despite undergoing a complete rebuilding. He fits into a compartment on his [[Transwarp cruiser|ship]].

[[Category:Decepticon subgroups]]
[[Category:Mini-Cassettes| Decepticon]]

Decepticon Mini-Cassette

2009-12-19T06:10:20Z

68.40.238.196: /*Main line */

{{stub|rest of the fiction, up-top links and maybe short descriptions, toy section needs fleshing out}}
{{factions|decepticon}}
:''The Decepticon Mini-Cassettes are a [[subgroup]] of [[Decepticon]]s (and in [[Ravage (G1)|a single case]], a [[Predacon (BW)|Predacon]]) from the [[Generation 1 (franchise)|Generation 1]] [[continuity family]].''
[[Image:Madman comic Soundwave ejects tapes.jpg|right|400px|thumb|Eject! Operation: Illustration.]]
The '''Decepticon Mini-Cassettes''' (also known as '''Spy Cassettes''' and '''Recordicons''') are [[Decepticon]]s (and in one case, a [[Predacon (BW)|Predacon]]) who, on [[Earth]], transform into analog [[Mini-Cassette|audio cassettes]]. They can fit into [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]]'s chest compartment, though their apparent relationship to Soundwave varies depending on continuity.

Many of these troops have communication or espionage roles. Recycling of body designs is common among them as well.

{{quote|In the days of Megatron, Decepticons developed the art of espionage using cassette technology.|[[Teletraan II]]|[[Secret Files of Teletraan II]]}}

:''Japanese name:'' '''Cassettron'''

==Fiction==
===Marvel comics===
For the most part, the Decepticon Mini-Cassettes did not appear to have a particularly special or unique relationship with Soundwave. Soundwave occasionally carried Laserbeak within his chest compartment, releasing him for surprise attacks. {{storylink|Warrior School!}}.

More often, the Mini-Cassette troops used their small alternate modes for stealth, disguise and transportation by other characters. Rumble and Frenzy frequently hitched rides in the cockpit of the Decepticon jets, for example. {{storylink|DIS-Integrated Circuits!}} Ravage used his cassette form on several occasions to spy on humans. {{storylink|Power Play!}} Three of the cassette troops were taken out of play by Omega Supreme {{storylink|Command Performances!}} and remained inoperative for quite some time, while Ravage was dropped into a mine shaft by the Autobot [[Skids (G1)|Skids]], {{storylink|Showdown!}} taking him out of play for even longer. Only Laserbeak remained operative, acting as a sort of totem of Decepticon leadership. {{storylink|Command Performances!}}

Ratbat assumed a cassette form upon traveling to Earth, and used this disguise to monitor his human accomplices. {{storylink|Buster Witwicky and the Car Wash of Doom}}

===Generation 1 cartoon continuity===

====Generation 1 cartoon====
The Mini-Cassettes acted as a sort of special-missions force, under the command of their host Soundwave. Soundwave could store numerous cassettes within his chest, at times ejecting as many as four at once. {{storylink|The Transformers: The Movie}} {{storylink|Call of the Primitives}}

Laserbeak was frequently sent to spy on the [[Autobot]]s at [[Ark (G1)|Autobot Headquarters]], once using his cassette form to sneak in. {{storylink|Divide and Conquer}} Ravage likewise used his cassette mode to infiltrate [[Teletraan I (G1)|Teletraan I]] and steal information about Earth's resources. {{storylink|More than Meets the Eye, Part 2}} Rumble was used more often to destroy stuff, though all three frequently engaged in battle.

The less-seen Buzzsaw and Frenzy also appeared on occasion, usually acting in conjunction with Laserbeak and Rumble, respectively. {{storylink|Countdown to Extinction (episode)|Countdown to Extinction}} {{storylink|Atlantis, Arise!}} {{storylink|The Immobilizer}}

Years later, Ratbat joined the cassette forces; like Laserbeak, he specialized in spy work and reconnaissance, particularly in tight quarters inaccessible to Laserbeak. {{storylink|Secret Files of Teletraan II}}

Some time after that, Overkill and Slugfest also joined Soundwave's troops. {{storylink|Call of the Primitives}}

====Madman ''The Transformers'' comic====
{{charstubfiction}}
In the year 2001, Soundwave unleashed his army of new Mini-Cassettes to steal the Autobot [[Matrix of Leadership]] from a secure bunker at the construction site of [[Autobot City]] on Earth. {{storylink|The Transformers (Madman)|The Transformers}}

====Japanese cartoon continuity====
=====''Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers'' comic=====
{{storylink|Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers issue 2|Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers #2}} {{storylink|Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers issue 7|Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers #7}}
{{charstubfiction}}
=====''Scramble City'' cartoon=====
{{storylink|Scramble City}}
{{charstubfiction}}
=====''The Headmasters'' cartoon=====
{{storylink|The Mystery of Planet Master}} {{storylink|Birth of the Fantastic Double Prime}}{{storylink|The Great Cassette Operation}} {{storylink|Terror! The Six Shadows}}{{storylink|Cybertron Is in Grave Danger, Part 1}} {{storylink|The Dormant Volcano Mysteriously Erupts}} {{storylink|Explosion on Mars!! MegaZarak Appears}} {{storylink|Return of the Immortal Emperor}}{{storylink|SOS from Planet Sandra}} {{storylink|Battle for Defense of the False Planet}}{{storylink|Head Formation of Friendship}}{{storylink|The Zarak Shield Turns the Tide}}{{storylink|Operation: Destroy the Decepticons}}
{{charstubfiction}}
=====''The Headmasters'' comic=====
{{storylink|The Headmasters issue 8|The Headmasters #8}}
{{charstubfiction}}

===Dreamwave comics continuity===
The origin of the Mini-Cassettes as a whole is unknown. Warriors like Laserbeak and Ravage were seen working with Soundwave in their standard capacity since the beginning of the war. {{storylink|The War Within}} The sole exception is Ratbat, who was once a high-ranking Decepticon, and the leader of his own independent faction during the Dark Ages. {{storylink|War Within: The Dark Ages}} At an unknown point in history, Ratbat was apparently converted into a Mini-Cassette as punishment for some unknown offense. {{storylink|Countdown to Extinction (issue)|Countdown to Extinction}}

Besides Ratbat, the Mini-Cassettes were sent into stasis lock with Soundwave and the rest of the ''[[Nemesis (G1)|Nemesis]]''<nowiki>'</nowiki> crew for four million years on the planet Earth. They reawakened in 1984 to battle [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] and the crew of the ''[[Ark (G1)|Ark]]''. {{storylink|Prime Directive}} When the Transformers eventually returned to [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]], the Mini-Cassettes went with Soundwave under the new command of [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]]. After [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] made a proposal to strike out on their own, however, they turned against Shockwave. Part of the deal was Starscream reuniting Soundwave with Ratbat, whom he had apparently already used as a Mini-Cassette in the past. The Mini-Cassettes returned to Earth with Soundwave and the [[Seeker (body-type)|Seeker]]s. {{storylink|War and Peace}} Megatron eventually returned, reclaiming leadership from Starscream, with the help of Soundwave and the Mini-Cassettes. {{storylink|The Route of All Evil}}

{{note|After returning to Earth, only Rumble and Frenzy made express appearances. Ravage, Laserbeak, Buzzsaw and Ratbat were presumably present inside Soundwave.}}

===IDW comics continuity===
[[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]], [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]], and [[Buzzsaw (G1)|Buzzsaw]] worked with [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]] from the beginning as his minions.

[[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]] and [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] were originally energon miners like [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]]. They were the first pre-Decepticons to hitch their wagons to the rising star of Megatron. Megatron had them reformatted into the Cybertronian equivalent of mini-cassettes in order to participate in a surprise attack on the [[Senate]]. They weren't entirely happy about it, but agreed out of fear and loyalty to Megatron. [[Squawkbox]] also participated in that operation.

{{note|It is unclear if Squawkbox was already a minion of Soundwave or if he was also reformatted for that purpose.}}

[[Ratbat (G1)|Senator Ratbat]] was Soundwave's boss up until the Decepticon uprising, at which point, Soundwave slagged him but preserved his spark in a Cybertronian mini-cassette. {{storylink|Megatron Origin}}

Much later, Squawkbox served on the same space station as [[Sixshot]]. {{storylink|Spotlight: Sixshot}}

Ravage and Laserbeak traveled with Soundwave to Earth while keeping an eye on [[Bludgeon (G1)|Bludgeon]]. Buzzsaw, Frenzy, and Rumble were not seen during this period, but the possibility that Soundwave was keeping one or more of them in reserve cannot be ruled out. (You never ''really'' know who he has hidden in there.) It was at this time that Soundwave and at least Ravage and Laserbeak picked up [[1984]]-era Earth [[alternate mode]]s. {{storylink|Spotlight: Soundwave}}

Ratbat spent some time as a regular member of Earth's [[Infiltration protocol|infiltration unit]] doing reconnaissance work. {{storylink|Devastation issue 1}} He had a non-mini-cassete alternate mode.

Laserbeak, Ravage, Frenzy, Rumble, and Ratbat all participated in Megatron's full-scale invasion of Earth as Soundwave's mini-cassette minions. {{storylink|All Hail Megatron}}

===''Hearts of Steel''===
Soundwave, Ravage, Squawkbox, and Rumble and/or Frenzy were among the Decepticons who were awakened in eighteenth century Earth and took on alternate modes from that era. {{storylink|Hearts of Steel}}

It was not revealed what those alternate modes were, but textual notes in Squawkbox's concept art included in the trade paperback indicate that his "upper body transforms into a mechanical gorilla" and his "lower part transforms into mechanical eagle."

===Shattered Glass===
{{charstubfiction}}
{{storylink|Shattered Glass (issue)|Shattered Glass}} {{storylink|Dungeons & Dinobots}} {{storylink|Do Over}} {{storylink|Eye in the Sky}}

==Toys==
===Decepticons===
'''1984'''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]]
* [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]]
* [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]]
* [[Buzzsaw (G1)|Buzzsaw]]
* [[Ravage (G1)/toys|Ravage]]}}
'''1986'''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Ratbat (G1)|Ratbat]] (only available in a two pack with an unchanged re-release of Frenzy)}}
'''1987'''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Slugfest (G1)|Slugfest]]
* [[Overkill (G1)|Overkill]]}}
'''1988'''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Squawktalk]] & [[Beastbox]] (combine to form [[Squawkbox]])}}

==Autobots==
'''1986'''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Rewind]]
* [[Eject]]
* [[Steeljaw (G1)|Steeljaw]]
* [[Ramhorn]]}}
'''1988'''
{{columnlist|1|
* [[Grand Slam]] & [[Raindance]] (combine to form [[Slamdance]])}}

===Laserbeak mold===
[[Image:LaserbeakG1toy.JPG|right|200px|thumb|1984 cassette Laserbeak]]
*[[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]]
*[[Buzzsaw (G1)|Buzzsaw]]
*[[Garboil]]
*[[Sundor]]

===Ravage mold===
*[[Ravage (G1)/toys|Ravage]]
*[[Howlback]]
*[[Glit]]

===Other molds===
* [[Beastbox]] and [[Squawktalk]], who can combine to form [[Squawkbox]].
* [[Flip Sides]], [[Redeco|redecoed]] from the [[Rewind]] mold.
* [[Overkill (G1)|Overkill]]
* [[Ratbat (G1)|Ratbat]]
* [[Slugfest (G1)|Slugfest]]
* ''[[Universe (2008 franchise)|Universe]]'' [[Ravage (G1)/toys|Ravage]]
: This is an entirely new-mold version of the character, still transforming from jaguar to a cassette compatible with G1 Soundwave / Blaster.

===Fiction only===
*[[:Image:Generic cassettes.jpg|Many]] [[Palette swap|other]] [[generic]]s.
*[[Autoscout]] {{storylink|A Prime Problem}}
*[[:Image:Ravage clones gi joe vol 2.jpg|Ravage clones]] {{storylink|G.I. Joe vs. the Transformers II issue 3}}
*"[[Shattered Glass (franchise)|Shattered Glass]]" [[Laserbeak (SG)|Laserbeak]] {{storylink|Shattered Expectations}} {{storylink|Shattered Glass (issue)|Shattered Glass}}
*"Shattered Glass" [[Buzzsaw (SG)|Buzzsaw]] {{storylink|Shattered Glass (issue)|Shattered Glass}}
*"Shattered Glass" [[Frenzy (SG)|Frenzy]] {{storylink|Shattered Glass (issue)|Shattered Glass}} {{storylink|Eye in the Sky}}
*"Shattered Glass" [[Ratbat (SG)|Ratbat]] {{storylink|Hasbro Transformers Collectors' Club issue 28}}
*"Shattered Glass" [[Rumble (SG)|Rumble]] {{storylink|Shattered Glass (issue)|Shattered Glass}}
*"Shattered Glass" [[Ravage (SG)|Ravage]] {{storylink|Eye in the Sky}}
*"Shattered Glass" [[Overkill (SG)|Overkill]] {{storylink|Do Over}}
*"Shattered Glass" [[Slugfest (SG)|Slugfest]] {{storylink|Dungeons & Dinobots}} {{storylink|Do Over}}

==Trivia==
[[Image:DiamondStickerbookRecordicons.jpg|thumb|200px]]
*This sub-group was called '''Decepticon Cassettes''' in the 1984 toy [[catalog]], but '''Decepticon Mini-Cassettes''' in all subsequent catalogs.
*The term "Spy Cassettes" was used in advertisements featured in the [[The Transformers (Marvel comic)#Overview 2|Marvel UK comics]] and an organizational chart in the [[Transformers Annual 1987]], while "Recordicon" was used in a 1986 [[Diamond]] ''Transformers: The Movie'' stickerbook to describe Laserbeak. "Recordicon" has seen recent use in the ''Shattered Glass'' profiles for Ravage and Ratbat.
*The term "Cassetticon" is an unofficial fan-term that crops up amongst the fanbase.
*The San Diego Comic-Con 2009 reissue of Soundwave refers to the cassettes as "Deployer" figures. The term [[Deployer]] had previously been used for the small animal-to-weapon figures from the Beast Machines toy line.
*In "[[The Agenda (Part 2)|The Agenda]]", Ravage still has his cassette alternate mode, despite undergoing a complete rebuilding. He fits into a compartment on his [[Transwarp cruiser|ship]].

[[Category:Decepticon subgroups]]
[[Category:Mini-Cassettes| Decepticon]]