Recordings — save time making copies (4)
I believe the answer is:
apes
'copies' is the definition.
('ape' can be a synonym of 'copy')
I don't understand how the rest of the clue works.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for apes that I've seen before include "Peas (anag)" , "Parrots" , "Zoo animals" , "Species of primate" , "Imitates in every aspect" .)