Vinyl records provide a different captivating experience as you hold them and then put the needle on the record. The vinyl records have seen an unprecedented resurgence, and sales are on top in 25 years. Even with digital formats, the old vinyl days are still gaining a following.
Having a refresher about building a collection of records is surreal, regardless of whether you are a seasoned collector or a novice. We’ll see different vinyl record sizes in detail here to help you enjoy your favorite albums.
Record Sizes
As you embark on this journey, vinyl records have three main sizes on the market: 7-inch, 10-inch, and 12-inch. You will read what you need to know about these different record sizes here.
7-Inch Records
This is the smallest size of vinyl record on the market. They have been around since the earliest days of the format. Playing at 45 RPM, its design allows you to hold one song on each side. Because of their limited capacity, historically, 7-inch vinyl has been used for promotional singles.
It is also known as a “45.” Speed is high, and size is small, which leads to minimal storage for recorded sound. Despite their low capacity, these records still see an overwhelming response from many collectors.
7-inch promotional singles on side A typically feature a highlight track that gains the most focus in marketing. Side B often contains a second less marketable song called “B-Side.” 7-inch records were widely famous among record fans, but the dawn of LPs led them into obscurity.
10-Inch Records
Hard shellac discs were used in making 10-inch records instead of vinyl. These records have 78 RPM speeds. Because of their RPM speed, they are also known as “78s.” They were in a rage back then, but most modern players no longer support these discs. They are now part of vinyl history.
10-inch records have no comparison in speed to any other record; they have the highest speed in the history of vinyl records. This speed gives them a huge benefit in terms of unparalleled sound quality. The accuracy of recording increases with record spins. Historically, the potential of the 78 for great sound has remained mostly untapped. The high speed means you can store music for a few minutes on one side. This makes it challenging to make it accessible for modern vinyl listeners.
They were overtaken by LPs in the 1950s. This was the major fallback of 10-inch records.
How rare are 10-inch records?
These records have been rendered obsolete for decades. So, it is easy to wonder whether your record is worth some money. Eventually, the answer will depend on the condition of your 10-inch record. How copies were pressed is another vital factor to consider.
As some 10-inch records are incredibly rare, audiophiles and vinyl enthusiasts will love to shell out hundreds of dollars for a rare record.
12-Inch Records
They are also known as LPs. 12-inch records are the largest form of vinyl record on the market. They can hold 20 minutes of recorded music on one side, giving them enough room for full-length albums. Thanks to their size, they offer a larger storage capacity. Their RPM-33 ⅓ is also low.
The rise of LPs changed the music industry forever. Now, artists can share an entire album or share a lot of music with potential fans. Even with new audio formats hitting the market, LPs are going strong. LPs are still among the most popular ways to listen to full-length albums.
In the early days of LPs, every full-length release got support for a 7-inch single or two. Artists also wanted their most marketable track, the “lead single,” to be circulated through the air. Before the advent of streaming services, the success of records, radio, and touring was vital. That is why we often hear about sold records and tours whenever we hear about successful artists from the past.
Can my turntable play cool records?
Digging bins and thrift stores for the hidden gem is one of the most exciting parts of the record collector’s journey and a rewarding experience. You may find plenty of pre-owned vinyl if you dig it with enough patience and diligence. Often, you may even steal a prize.
Remember, shopping for used records has a couple of pitfalls, too.
A major consideration you should remember is that buying used records may not necessarily play on your turntable. Your turntable might not support vinyl found at the thrift store. Most turntable designs are for 33⅓ RPM LPs, not 45s or 78s. These used records can only be played at adjustable speed settings.
I don’t know whether your turntable will play the used record. If you need clarification, check the internet or the owner’s manual.
Storing Records of All Shapes and Sizes
Storing records of all shapes and sizes in the right way ensures they will maintain quality for a long time. Some basic principles of good storage are:
- Lining them like books, no stacking
- Rows of records shouldn’t lean to avoid pressing on some records beneath.
- Store in a temperature-controlled space to avoid warping.
- Use protective sleeves to protect you from dust and dirt.
- Separate records by size
Since 78s and 45s are the lightest and smallest, keep them separately from LPs. Find a dedicated shelf for different types of records as the collection grows. Some highly dedicated collectors even have dedicated rooms for records.
Wrapping up
That concludes our post on vinyl record sizes. You now have almost everything in different sizes. LPs are the largest form on the market. You may have used some 7-inch and 10-inch records, but you are still determining if they will play on your turntable. So, you should check the internet or the manual of the owner.
Vinyl records are seeing a great resurgence, and people love old records’ aura.