Ian, there may not have been TV specials or banner ads announcing the demise of cassette tapes, but it was pretty much a foregone conclusion when new technology evolved.   Just as the when ice man disappeared when electric refrigeration came into vogue,the writing was on the wall. Cassette tapes won't disappear entirely, but their usefullness is rapidly fading. Not many people wash their clothes by beating them on rocks these days, likewise consumers won't be bothered with the fidelity issues and practicality of cassette tapes now that the bar has been raised.   Consumers have spoken and the votes are in.