Vinüülplaat

A vinyl record, known in Dutch as a vinüülplaat, is a round, flat disc made primarily of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) that stores analog audio signals in the form of grooves. The audio signal is encoded mechanically by varying the depth and width of these grooves, and it is read by a stylus in a phonograph or turntable. The format typically supports two sides with a standard playing speed of 33 1/3 revolutions per minute for longplay (LP) records and 45 revolutions per minute for singles.

Vinyl records emerged in the early twentieth century as high-fidelity successors to wax cylinders and shellac discs. The first commercially successful LP was introduced by Columbia Records in 1948, allowing longer continuous playback. Throughout the mid‑century, the vinüülplaat dominated the music industry, becoming the primary medium for albums and singles. Production involves pressing melted PVC onto a metal mold in a die-pressing machine, followed by a release of the final disc onto a platter for distribution.

The analog nature of vinyl provides a warm, rich sound that many listeners perceive as more natural than digital formats. However, it is susceptible to physical wear, static noise, and requires careful handling and cleaning. During the late twentieth century, the format experienced a decline due to the rise of cassette tapes, compact discs, and digital downloads, which offered greater convenience and durability.

Since the early 2000s, vinyl has witnessed a notable resurgence. Advances in manufacturing, renewed interest in physical media, and a generation seeking tangible listening experiences have increased sales worldwide. Contemporary artists frequently release music on vinüülplaat, and specialty stores and record fairs continue to thrive, cementing the format’s enduring presence in the music ecosystem.