Multiple choice general knowledge science & technology Name the first instrument invented for recording and playing back sound. Phonograph Telephone Camera Stereo Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself A Correct answer Explanation The phonograph, invented by Thomas Edison in 1877, was the first device capable of both recording and playing back sound. It used a needle to etch sound waves onto a tinfoil-wrapped cylinder, which could then be played back by tracing the grooves.