Copied item using single digital audio tape (8)
I believe the answer is:
imitated
'copied' is the definition.
('imitate' can be a synonym of 'copy')
'item using single digital audio tape' is the wordplay.
I cannot quite see how this works, but
'item' could be 'it' (I've seen this in other clues) and 'it' is found within the answer.
'single' could be 'i' (I as in one) and 'i' is found in the answer.
The remaining letters 'mated' is a valid word which might be clued in a way I don't understand.
This may be the basis of the clue (or it may be nonsense).
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for imitated that I've seen before include "Copied, simulated" , "Took off" , "Aped, copied" , "most sincerely flattered?" , "Followed" .)