Pitkäsoittolevyt

Pitkäsoittolevyt, commonly referred to as long-playing records or LPs in English, are a type of phonograph record that was popular from the late 1940s to the mid-1980s. They are circular discs made of vinyl, typically 12 inches in diameter, that store analog audio. The term "pitkäsoitto" translates to "long-play" in Finnish, reflecting the extended duration of music that could be recorded on these discs compared to earlier 78 RPM records.

The standard speed for pitkäsoittolevyt is 33 1/3 revolutions per minute (RPM), allowing for approximately 20-25 minutes of music per side. This was a significant improvement over the 78 RPM records, which could only hold about 3 minutes of music per side. The increased capacity enabled artists and record labels to release entire albums, including multiple songs, on a single disc.

Pitkäsoittolevyt were a staple of popular music distribution, particularly in the United States and Europe. They were known for their high-quality sound and durability, making them a favorite among audiophiles and music enthusiasts. The format also played a crucial role in the development of the music industry, influencing the way albums were produced, marketed, and consumed.

The decline of pitkäsoittolevyt began in the mid-1980s with the rise of compact discs (CDs), which offered superior sound quality and convenience. Despite this, pitkäsoittolevyt remain a beloved format among collectors and vintage music enthusiasts, celebrated for their nostalgic value and the unique listening experience they provide.