The LP is an analog sound storage medium, specifically a phonograph record format characterized by: a speed of 33+1⁄3 rpm; a 12- or 10-inch diameter; use of the "microgroove" groove specification; and a vinyl composition disk. Introduced by Columbia Records in 1948, it was soon adopted as a new standard by the entire US record industry and, apart from a few relatively minor refinements and the important later addition of stereophonic sound in 1957, it remained the standard format for record albums, during a period in popular music known as the album era. LP was originally a trademark of Columbia and competed against the smaller 7-inch sized "45" or "single" format by RCA Victor, eventually ending up on top. Today in the vinyl revival era, a large majority of records are based on the LP format and hence the LP name continues to be in use today to refer to new records.
A 12-inch LP vinyl record Top: the original LP logo as used by Columbia Records
Neumann lathe with SX-74 cutting head
Neumann lathe
Image: Disco de vinilo A todo color
A phonograph record, a vinyl record, or simply a record or vinyl is an analog sound storage medium in the form of a flat disc with an inscribed, modulated spiral groove. The groove usually starts near the outside edge and ends near the center of the disc. The stored sound information is made audible by playing the record on a phonograph.
Three vinyl records of different formats, from left to right: a 12 inch LP, a 10 inch LP, a 7 inch single
Conductor and cast members of the D'Oyly Carte Opera Company with acoustic recording horn at HMV, c. 1924
Emile Berliner with disc record gramophone
Hungarian Pathé record, 90 to 100 rpm