Vinyl record on turntable closeup

The vinyl record, an analog audio physical medium, is experiencing a global revival, with sales growing year after year among collectors and new listeners.

About this subject

The vinyl record is a sound recording medium that dominated the music industry from the 1950s to the 1980s. In the 12-inch (30 cm) format spinning at 33 1/3 revolutions per minute (RPM), it stores analog audio in microscopic grooves read by a piezoelectric stylus. The resulting sound is continuous and uncompressed, which many audiophiles consider warmer and more natural than digital formats.

Manufacturing vinyl involves pressing polyvinyl chloride (PVC) from a metal stamper, a process requiring precision to avoid unwanted noise. The record sleeve, made of cardboard, became a canvas for artistic expression, often as iconic as the music inside. The LP (Long Play) format allowed entire albums to be heard without interruption, revolutionizing music consumption.

Vinyl declined in the 1990s with the rise of CDs and later digital streaming. However, since 2008, it has resurged driven by nostalgia, a desire for tangibility, and the ritual of listening to a full album without skipping tracks. In 2023, vinyl sales surpassed CDs for the first time since 1987, according to the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). Brazil follows this trend: domestic pressings of artists like Gilberto Gil and Caetano Veloso are highly sought after.

Technical curiosity: to extract sound, the stylus travels along a V-shaped groove, generating vibrations converted into an electrical signal. The rotation speed requires a turntable with a stable motor and balanced tonearm. Vinyl records hold an average of 22 minutes per side for 33 1/3 RPM albums, but variations include 45 RPM (7-inch) and 78 RPM (older) records.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why has vinyl become popular again?

The vinyl revival is driven by a desire for a physical and sonic experience, nostalgia, and the ritual of listening to a full album. The artwork and handling add emotional value.

What is the difference in sound quality between vinyl and CD?

Vinyl is analog and continuous, while CD is digital and sampled. Many prefer vinyl's 'warm' sound, but it may have surface noise. CD offers greater clarity and no pops.

How should I care for a vinyl record?

Store records vertically in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Clean with an anti-static cloth or carbon fiber brush before playing. Avoid touching the groove surface.