kettaplaadide

Kettaplaadide, often referred to as vinyl records or LPs (long-playing records), are an analog sound storage medium. They consist of a flat disc, typically made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), with a continuous groove running in a spiral from the edge to near the center. Music is embedded in this groove as a physical waveform.

To play a kettaplaad, a stylus (needle) is placed in the groove. As the record rotates on a turntable, the stylus vibrates according to the groove's waveform, and these vibrations are amplified and converted into audible sound. The speed at which the record rotates, measured in revolutions per minute (RPM), determines the type of record. 33 1/3 RPM records are commonly used for full albums, while 45 RPM records are often used for singles and EPs.

Kettaplaadide experienced their peak popularity in the mid-20th century, becoming the primary format for music distribution. Despite the advent of digital formats like CDs and streaming, vinyl records have seen a resurgence in recent decades, appreciated by audiophiles and collectors for their perceived warmth of sound and tangible aesthetic. The process of manufacturing kettaplaadide involves cutting a master disc, electroplating it, and then pressing multiple copies from stampers.