Benefits of vinyl records and why someone would want to collect vinyl records.
Vinyl records, also known as phonograph records or simply records, are a type of analog sound storage medium consisting of a flat disc with an inscribed, modulated spiral groove. (Please don’t call them “vinyls”.)
Although they were once a popular format for music playback, they fell out of favor in the 1980s and 1990s with the advent of cassette tapes and CDs. (Both of which are also making a bit of a comeback.)
Read: What It Was Like To Collect Music In The 90s
However, in recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in vinyl records as a medium for music playback, and many people have started collecting for various reasons.
One of the main benefits of vinyl records is their sound quality. Many audiophiles and music enthusiasts argue that the sound quality of vinyl records is superior to that of digital formats such as CDs and MP3s. This is because vinyl records capture the full frequency range of sound, including the subtle nuances and details that are lost in digital formats due to the process of digitization and compression. In addition, vinyl records have a warm, analog sound that is often described as more natural and organic than the colder, digital sound of CDs and MP3s.
Another benefit of vinyl records is their physicality. Unlike digital music, which is stored electronically and played back through a device, vinyl records are tangible objects that you can hold in your hands and interact with. They often come with artwork and liner notes that provide additional context and information about the music and the artists. Many people enjoy the tactile experience of selecting a record, placing it on the turntable, and carefully lowering the needle onto the spinning disc. There is a sense of ritual and ceremony associated with playing a vinyl record that is lacking in digital formats.
Vinyl records also have a certain nostalgia factor that appeals to many collectors. For those who grew up listening to records, owning and playing them can be a way to reconnect with their past and relive memories. In addition, vinyl records have a certain retro coolness that has been embraced by younger generations, who appreciate the vintage aesthetic and the sense of history and authenticity that comes with collecting and playing records.
Vinyl records can also be a more immersive listening experience than digital formats. Because they require more active engagement and attention from the listener, they can be more conducive to focused listening and deeper engagement with the music. This can be especially true when listening to longer works, such as concept albums, which can be more rewarding when heard in their entirety without the distractions of digital media.
In addition to their sound quality, physicality, nostalgia, and immersive listening experience, vinyl records can also be a more collectible and potentially valuable format than other types of music media. Many records are pressed in limited quantities and can become rare and sought after by collectors, leading to higher prices on the resale market. Some records, especially those by popular or influential artists, can even become valuable investments. Collecting vinyl records can therefore be a hobby that combines an appreciation for music with the potential for financial gain. (You shouldn’t get into records thinking it’s an “investment”. This takes an extensive knowledge of music, the vinyl record market, and some luck. You’re better off investing in a more traditional way.)
Note: Artists sometimes only release certain songs on a vinyl record, or a CD, or a cassette. If you’re a fan of that artist or song and want to own a copy of it, sometimes buying that particular release is your only choice. Read the previous linked article on collecting music in the 90s for more info on this.
There are, of course, some drawbacks to collecting vinyl records. They can be more fragile and prone to damage than other types of music media, and they require more maintenance and upkeep, such as cleaning and handling with care to prevent scratches and wear. (Read more on this below) In addition, they can be more expensive to purchase than CDs or digital downloads, and the cost of equipment such as turntables and speakers can also be a consideration. However, for many collectors, the benefits of vinyl records outweigh these drawbacks, and the joy and fulfillment they get from collecting and listening to records makes it worth the extra effort and cost.
In conclusion, vinyl records offer a number of benefits that make them an attractive format for music collectors. Their sound quality, physicality, nostalgia, immersive listening experience, and potential collectability all contribute to their appeal. In addition, many people enjoy the ritual and ceremony of playing a record, and the sense of connection with the music and the artists that comes with it. While there are certainly some drawbacks to collecting vinyl records, such as the potential for damage and the higher cost compared to other formats, for many collectors, the benefits far outweigh these challenges. Whether it’s for the superior sound quality, the tactile experience, the nostalgia, or the potential for financial gain, there are many good reasons to collect vinyl records and enjoy them as a medium for music playback. So, vinyl records can be a great addition to any music lover’s collection.
What to look for in a good quality turntable
A turntable, also known as a record player, is a device that plays vinyl records. It consists of a platter that rotates the record, a tonearm that holds the phono cartridge and needle, and a phono cartridge that converts the mechanical vibrations of the needle in the record grooves into an electrical signal.
Read: Recommended Beginner Turntables
When shopping for a turntable, there are several factors to consider in order to ensure that you get a good quality one.
- Drive system: There are three main types of drive systems for turntables – belt drive, direct drive, and idler drive.
Belt drive turntables use a belt to connect the motor to the platter, which helps to isolate the motor from the platter and reduce vibrations. This results in a more stable and smoother rotation of the platter, which can result in better sound quality. However, belt drive turntables are more prone to wear and tear and may require more maintenance.
Direct drive turntables have the motor directly connected to the platter, which allows for faster start-up and braking times. They are also more durable and require less maintenance. However, the direct connection between the motor and platter can result in more vibrations, which can affect the sound quality.
Idler drive turntables are similar to direct drive turntables, but they use a rubber wheel to transfer the motor’s torque to the platter. They offer a combination of the benefits of both belt drive and direct drive turntables, but they can be more expensive and harder to find. Idler drive turntables were largely displaced by belt drive turntables.
For a beginner turntable, you don’t need to worry that much about this. Most tables you’ll be interested in will be belt drive tables which are perfectly adequate.
- Speed: Turntables typically have three speed settings – 33 1/3 rpm, 45 rpm, and 78 rpm. It’s important to check if a turntable can play the speeds of the records you own or plan to buy. (Nearly all modern/contemporary records are 33 1/3 or 45) Some turntables also offer variable speed control, which allows you to fine-tune the speed for better accuracy and sound quality.
- Platter and bearing: The platter is the flat surface on which the record is placed. It should be made of a heavy, non-resonant material, such as metal or acrylic, to ensure a stable and consistent rotation. The bearing, which is the mechanism that supports the platter, should be smooth and precise to minimize vibrations and noise.
- Tonearm and cartridge: The tonearm is the long, thin arm that holds the phono cartridge and needle, and it plays a crucial role in the sound quality of a turntable. It should be well-balanced and have low friction to allow the cartridge to trace the record grooves accurately.
The phono cartridge is the device that converts the mechanical vibrations of the needle in the record grooves into an electrical signal. It should be of good quality and properly aligned with the tonearm and the record grooves to ensure accurate and detailed sound reproduction. Some turntables come with a built-in cartridge, while others allow you to install a separate cartridge of your choice.
- Suspension: A turntable’s suspension system helps to isolate it from external vibrations, such as footsteps or loud music, which can affect the sound quality. A good suspension system should effectively absorb and dampen vibrations without affecting the tonearm’s movement.
- Build quality: A turntable should be well-built and sturdy, with tight tolerances and precise adjustments. It should also have a good fit and finish, with no visible gaps or seams.
- Features: Some turntables come with additional features, such as a built-in phono preamp, digital outputs, USB connectivity, and Bluetooth connectivity. A built-in phono preamp allows you to connect the turntable directly to an amplifier or receiver that doesn’t have a phono input. (Read: Recommended Preamps) Digital outputs, such as coaxial or optical, allow you to connect the turntable to a digital device, such as a computer or a digital-to-analog converter, to digitize your records. USB connectivity allows you to connect the turntable to a computer to record and edit your vinyl tracks. Bluetooth connectivity allows you to wirelessly stream your vinyl records to a Bluetooth-enabled speaker or headphones. (Bluetooth is generally viewed as a modern convenience but is frowned upon by many vinyl enthusiasts.)
- Price: Turntables range in price from under $100 (usually only recommended for children) up to several thousand dollars. In general, you get what you pay for when it comes to turntables. Cheap turntables may have lower quality components and may not offer the same level of sound quality and durability as more expensive models. However, there are also some good quality turntables available at more affordable price points. It’s important to set a budget and consider the features and performance that are most important to you.
In conclusion, a good quality turntable should offer a stable and consistent rotation of the platter, accurate and detailed sound reproduction, effective isolation from external vibrations, and a well-built and sturdy design. It should also have the features and performance that meet your needs and fit your budget.
How to clean and care for vinyl records
Cleaning and caring for vinyl records is an important task for any music enthusiast or collector. Not only do dirty and poorly cared for records sound worse, but they can also become damaged over time.
New records can come with a bit of debris, such as little paper bits or dust, and used records, depending on where you find or buy them, can be especially dirty.
We will go over the steps you can take to properly clean and care for your vinyl records to ensure that they last for years to come and continue to sound great.
Step 1: Dust and Debris
The first step in cleaning and caring for your vinyl records is to remove any dust and debris that may have accumulated on the surface of the record. A soft, lint-free cloth is the best tool for this task. Gently wipe the surface of the record in a circular motion, starting from the center and working your way outwards. Be sure to get the edges of the record as well. You don’t need to press hard, and be conscious of your finger nails. Once a record is scratched, you can’t unscratch it.
Step 2: Deep Cleaning
If your record is particularly dirty or has visible scratches, you may need to do a deeper cleaning. There are a few different methods you can use to deep clean your records.
One option is to use a commercial record cleaning solution and a record cleaning device, like a Spin Clean. These use a combination of a cleaning solution and a brush to gently remove dirt and grime from the surface of the record. You can also use a cleaning solution and a soft, lint-free cloth to manually clean the record. Just be sure to follow the instructions on the cleaning solution and use it sparingly to avoid damaging the record.
You can also use a device that uses vacuum to suck up the cleaning solution and dirt. These work very well and are relatively affordable. Especially if you already have a small shop vacuum. There are a number of options but we’re fond of this 3d printed device called Squeaky Clean. You just attach a small shop vac to it. It works better than a Spin Clean but it more expensive.
A more advanced option is to use an ultrasonic cleaner. There are many options here as well and some new ones have come out that are reasonably priced. A newer addition is the HumminGuru, pictured left. There are also some more generic ultrasonic cleaners available.
These have their pros and cons as well.
A cheap, popular method is to use a carbon fiber brush to gently remove dust and debris from the grooves of the record. You can also use a velvet brush with a record cleaning liquid. For an older record or particular dirty record, you’ll need to use one of the other options though.
Step 3: Handling and Storage
Proper handling and storage of your vinyl records is crucial to their long-term care. Here are a few tips to follow:
- Always handle your records by the edges or the label, and avoid touching the grooves of the record. The oils from your skin can easily transfer to the record, leading to build-up and potentially causing damage.
- Store your records vertically in a sturdy, protective sleeves. This will help prevent them from getting scratched or damaged. You can also use a protective outer sleeve for added protection.
This is our recommended practice. Just store the record in a protective rice-paper sleeve outside of the cover, and put both in a protective plastic outer sleeve. (They are available in combo packs with both.) Keep the inner sleeve that the record comes with inside of the cover. This way you don’t have to mess with taking the record out of the cover every time you want to play it.
- Keep your records away from direct sunlight and heat sources, as extreme temperatures can cause warping.
- Avoid stacking your records on top of each other, as the weight can cause them to become damaged.
- Don’t store them compacted too tightly. You should be able to easily slide them in and out of the shelf.
Step 4: Stylus and Turntable Maintenance
In addition to cleaning and caring for your records, it is also important to regularly maintain your turntable and stylus. A dirty or worn stylus can cause damage to your records and result in poor sound quality. Here are a few tips for maintaining your stylus and turntable:
- Regularly clean the stylus with a stylus brush or a special stylus cleaning solution. This will remove any dirt or debris that may have accumulated on the stylus, and help extend its life.
- Check the alignment of your stylus to ensure that it is tracking properly. An improperly aligned stylus can cause wear and damage to your records.
- Clean the turntable regularly to remove any dust or debris that may have accumulated. This will help ensure that the turntable is functioning properly and that your records are spinning smoothly.
- If you notice any issues with your turntable or stylus, it is a good idea to have them professionally serviced. This will help ensure that they to function properly and that your records are being played back correctly.
In conclusion, cleaning and caring for your vinyl records is an important task that requires time and attention. This all may be overwhelming to someone looking to get started but it’s all much easier than it seems.
By following the steps outlined above, you can help ensure that your records stay in good condition and continue to sound great for years to come. Regular dusting and cleaning, proper handling and storage, and maintaining your turntable and stylus are all key to keeping your vinyl collection in top shape. With a little bit of care and attention, you can enjoy your vinyl records for many years to come.