About Records

What is the difference between a record, vinyl and vinyls?

Record: This is the classic term, referring to the physical disc that holds music. Using "records" is accurate and widely accepted for any type of disc, regardless of its era.

Vinyl: This term describes both the format and the material, as records are made from vinyl plastic. Phrases like "I collect vinyl" or "I bought new vinyl" are common and correct.

Vinyls: This term is a bit more debated. While "vinyls" has gained popularity among newer collectors, traditional collectors and audiophiles typically avoid it, as “vinyl” is considered an uncountable noun (similar to "music" or "water"). It’s not exactly wrong, but "records" or "vinyl" are generally preferred by most vinyl enthusiasts.

In short, "records" and "vinyl" are the go-to terms among vinyl fans.

Records generally come in two main sizes and speeds.

The standard sizes are 12-inch and 7-inch. Most 12-inch records play at 33 1/3 RPM and are typically used for full albums, while 7-inch records usually play at 45 RPM and are commonly used for singles. Some 7-inch singles feature a larger centre hole, originally designed for jukeboxes, which requires an adapter to play on standard turntables.

Other formats exist, such as 12-inch records at 45 RPM, which are often audiophile or special-edition pressings designed for higher sound quality. There are also 10-inch records, which play at either 33 1/3 or 45 RPM, and 78 RPM records, a vintage format that requires a specific stylus to play.

However, 12-inch at 33 1/3 RPM and 7-inch at 45 RPM remain the most widely used configurations and can be played by almost all modern turntables.

In vinyl terminology, albums, releases, and pressings refer to different aspects of a record's production and availability.

Album: This is the musical content itself—a collection of songs or compositions intended to be experienced together. The album remains the same regardless of how or when it’s produced or sold.

Release: A release is a specific version of an album made available at a particular time and place. Different releases of the same album might vary in terms of packaging, cover art, or bonus content, and can be specific to a certain country or label.

Pressing: A pressing refers to a single production run of a release, where physical copies are manufactured. Each pressing might vary based on factors like the vinyl weight, the quality of the mastering, or even the pressing plant used. First pressings are often more valued by collectors, while later pressings or reissues are produced to meet ongoing demand.

Packaging is a big part of the appeal of records.

From protective layers to unique extras, each element of record packaging showcases artwork, provides information, and helps preserve the vinyl.

Hype Sticker (Optional): Hype stickers are small labels placed on the shrink wrap or outer sleeve, highlighting features like limited editions, colored vinyl, or remastering details. These add to the collectible value, and some collectors preserve them by saving the shrink wrap or carefully removing the sticker.

Shrink Wrap or Plastic Wrap: New records are usually sealed in shrink wrap to keep them clean and free from handling damage before purchase. Some collectors choose to leave the shrink wrap on, though it’s often removed to access the record more easily.

OBI Strip (Primarily in Japanese Releases): An OBI strip is a paper band that wraps around the outer sleeve, primarily on Japanese releases. It includes album details in Japanese, such as price and catalog information, and is highly valued by collectors.

Outer Sleeve (Jacket): The outer sleeve, or jacket, is the main cover of the record, typically made of cardboard. It often displays the album’s artwork on the front and additional information like tracklist and credits on the back.

Additional Inserts (Optional): Some records come with extra inserts, such as posters, lyric sheets, booklets, or download codes for digital copies. These inserts add collectible value and provide more details about the album.

Inner Sleeve: Inside the jacket, the inner sleeve directly houses the vinyl record, protecting it from dust and scratches. Inner sleeves may be plain or feature artwork, lyrics, or liner notes.

Poly-Lined Inner Sleeve (Optional): Some high-end or audiophile records include a poly-lined inner sleeve, combining paper and plastic for extra protection against dust and static.

To keep records in good condition, proper handling is important.

When removing a record from its sleeve, hold the sleeve at an angle and let the record slide out partially. A common technique is to use your thumb on the outer edge and your fingers on the label to avoid touching the playing surface, which helps prevent oils and dust from affecting sound quality.

Place the record gently on the turntable by holding it at the edges, taking care not to touch the grooves. Once it’s positioned on the platter, use a soft, anti-static record brush to remove any dust from the surface before playing.

After listening, lift the record carefully by the edges. Slide it back into the inner sleeve by holding it at the edges or using the thumb-and-fingers method, then place it in the outer jacket with the sleeve opening facing up or sideways for added security. Following these steps will help preserve the quality of your records for many plays to come.

Discogs is a popular resource for record collectors.

Originally designed as a community-driven platform to catalog music collections, particularly vinyl, it has grown into one of the largest resources for detailed information on albums, singles, and various releases from around the world.

Here’s what makes Discogs a go-to website for vinyl enthusiasts:

Database: Discogs has a comprehensive, user-maintained database where you can find information on nearly every music release imaginable, including release year, label, catalog number, track listing, cover art, and pressing details like limited editions or colored vinyl. It’s especially useful for identifying obscure or out-of-print records.

Marketplace: Discogs includes a marketplace where users buy and sell records. Sellers list records for sale, and buyers can search for specific releases or browse by genre, artist, or label. Prices often reflect market demand, giving a sense of the rarity or value of a record.

Collection & Wantlist Tools: Discogs allows users to create personal collections and wishlists (known as "Wantlists"), making it easy to track both owned records and those you’re looking for. These tools help users stay organized and monitor the availability of sought-after items.

Community and Data Accuracy: As a community-driven site, Discogs relies on user contributions to update and verify release information, ensuring the database remains detailed and accurate. It serves as a collaborative music encyclopedia, specifically designed for collectors.

Discogs is an essential resource for discovering music, managing collections, and connecting with other vinyl enthusiasts. Whether you’re a casual listener or a serious collector, it offers invaluable tools and information in the world of vinyl collecting.