Copies of timeless recordings (4)

I believe the answer is:

apes

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'copies' is the definition.
('ape' can be a synonym of 'copy')

I can't explain the rest of the clue.

(Other definitions for apes that I've seen before include "Parrots" , "Peas (anag)" , "Zoo animals" , "Mimics like primates" , "Species of primate" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times and The Sunday Times.

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