12toner

12toner is a term often used in the music industry, particularly within electronic music production and DJing, to refer to a specific type of sample. It refers to audio samples that are derived from 12-inch vinyl records. These samples are typically characterized by a distinct sonic quality, often described as warm, gritty, or having a certain analog character. This is attributed to the physical medium of vinyl, which can introduce subtle imperfections and a unique frequency response during the sampling process.

Producers and DJs may seek out 12toner samples for their vintage feel or to add a particular texture to their tracks that is difficult to replicate with purely digital sounds. The process of obtaining these samples often involves digitizing vinyl, which can be done by the producer themselves or by using pre-existing sampled libraries. The term itself highlights the origin of the sound, drawing a connection to the physical format of the 12-inch single, which was a popular medium for dance music and singles before the widespread adoption of CDs and digital downloads. The use of 12toner samples is a stylistic choice that contributes to the overall aesthetic and authenticity of certain musical genres.