Why do records spin at 33 rpm?

  • th-th

    Member
    January 6, 2024 at 8:41 am

    Phonograph records typically spin at a speed of 33 revolutions per minute (rpm) when played on a turntable, which is the standard speed for full-sized long-playing records. The origin of this speed can be traced back to the late 1940s when the long-playing (LP) record was introduced by Columbia Records to replace the older 78 rpm format. The new 33 rpm records allowed for longer playing times and better sound quality due to their smaller groove width and lower surface noise. Despite the availability of other speeds such as 45 rpm (often used for singles), the 33 rpm speed has become the most common and recognized speed for vinyl records.

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