When it comes to collecting or listening to music on vinyl records, one of the most important things to understand is the different types of vinyl records that are available. There are several different types of vinyl records that vary in terms of sound quality, durability, and price. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at the most common types of vinyl records and explain the key differences between them.
The first type of vinyl record is a standard LP (long-playing) record. These are the most common type of vinyl records and are typically 12 inches in diameter. LP records are known for their warm, rich sound and are perfect for listening to music at home. They also often feature extensive artwork and liner notes on the cover. Standard LP records are made from a PVC (polyvinyl chloride) compound, and are known for their durability and longevity.
Another common type of vinyl record is the 45 RPM (revolutions per minute) single. These are typically 7 inches in diameter and are often used for singles or EPs. 45 RPM records are usually made from a thinner PVC compound and are not as durable as LP records. They also tend to have less dynamic range and less bass, but they are also known for their warm and rich sound.
A third type of vinyl record is the 78 RPM record. These are the oldest type of vinyl records and are typically made of shellac. They have a large diameter and play at a faster speed than LP or 45 RPM records. They also tend to be more brittle and fragile than other types of vinyl records, and are no longer as commonly used for listening to music today.
A newer type of vinyl record is the Picture Disc, these records feature images, usually from the album art, pressed into the vinyl. They are not as durable as traditional vinyl and the sound quality can vary depending on the record press.
Another recent addition to the market is the Colored Vinyl. They come in a variety of colors and shades. These types of records can be very collectable but it's important to note that the color of the vinyl shouldn't affect the sound quality.
Lastly, there are reissues, which are remastered versions of classic albums. These records are often made using a higher quality PVC compound and are pressed on 180-gram or 200-gram vinyl, which makes them heavier and more durable than standard LP records. They also tend to have improved sound quality and often feature remastered audio.
In conclusion, there are many different types of vinyl records available to music lovers today, and each type has its own unique characteristics and benefits. Whether you're a collector looking to add to your record collection, or a music lover looking to upgrade your listening experience, understanding the different types of vinyl records will help you make an informed decision when buying vinyl.