Vinyl records have experienced a remarkable resurgence in recent years, captivating music enthusiasts with their warm sound and tangible appeal.
At DJ RECORDS™, we’re passionate about all formats of vinyl (and shellac) records. If you’re new to the world of vinyl, understanding the different sizes of records can be a little puzzling. Let’s explore the world of record sizes and what makes each unique.
The Big Three: Common Vinyl Record Sizes
When it comes to vinyl records, there are three main sizes you’ll encounter:
1. 12-inch Records (LPs and 12-inch singles)
The 12-inch LP (Long Playing) is the most common size in record stores today. These records typically spin at 33 1/3 revolutions per minute (RPM) and can hold about 22 minutes of music per side.
Key facts:
- Diameter: 12 inches (30 cm)
- Common use: Full-length albums and 12-inch singles
- Typical capacity: 40-45 minutes total (both sides)
- Popular since: 1948
12-inch records offer the best audio quality and are perfect for listeners who want to experience an artist’s full vision for an album.
2. 10-inch Records
Less common than their 12-inch counterparts, 10-inch records were popular in the early days of vinyl. They can be played at various speeds, including 33 1/3, 45, and 78 RPM.
Key points:
- Diameter: 10 inches (25 cm)
- Common use: EPs (Extended Plays) or mini-albums
- Typical capacity: 12-15 minutes per side at 33 1/3 RPM
- Popular during: 1940s and early 1950s
While less prevalent today, 10-inch records are sometimes used for special releases or by indie artists looking to offer something unique.
3. 7-inch Records (45s)
The 7-inch record, often called a “45” due to its standard playback speed of 45 RPM, is the smallest of the common vinyl sizes. These were incredibly popular for singles throughout the 1950s and beyond.
Key features:
- Diameter: 7 inches (17.8 cm)
- Common use: Singles or EPs
- Typical capacity: 4-5 minutes per side
- Popular since: 1949
7-inch records are still widely used today, especially in the indie music scene and for special edition releases.
Beyond the Basics: Unusual Record Sizes
While the above three sizes dominate the vinyl landscape, there are a few less common sizes worth mentioning:
- 5-inch Records: These tiny records, sometimes called “flexi discs,” were often used for promotional purposes or included in magazines. They typically play at 33 1/3 RPM and can hold 2-3 minutes of audio per side.
- 16-inch Transcription Discs: On the opposite end of the spectrum, these massive records were primarily used for radio broadcasts in the mid-20th century. They could hold up to 15 minutes of audio per side at 33 1/3 RPM.
Why Size Matters
The size of a vinyl record is about more than aesthetics or how much shelf space it takes up. It directly impacts several factors:
- Sound Quality: Larger records (12-inch) generally produce better sound quality due to wider groove spacing, which allows for more detailed audio information.
- Playing Time: Bigger records can hold more music, so full albums are typically on 12-inch vinyl.
- Portability: Smaller records, like 7 inches, are easier to transport and store, making them popular for jukeboxes and mobile DJs.
Caring for Your Records, Regardless of Size
No matter what size records you collect, proper care is crucial. Here are some tips:
- Store your vinyl vertically to prevent warping
- Use inner sleeves to protect from dust
- Handle them by the edges and label area to avoid fingerprints and scratches
DJ RECORDS™: Passionate About All Sizes
At DJ RECORDS™, we’re passionate about vinyl in all sizes and are always eager to buy records from collectors and music enthusiasts. Whether you have classic 12-inch albums, rare 10-inch EPs, or stacks of 7-inch singles, we want to see what you’ve got.
Remember, the size of the record doesn’t determine its value or impact—some of the most sought-after and influential recordings in history have come on the smallest vinyl!
We’d love to hear from you if you want to sell your vinyl collection, regardless of the record sizes. Our team of experienced buyers appreciates the unique value of each record size and is committed to offering fair prices for your vinyl. So whether you’re downsizing your collection, inheriting some old records, or just making room for new finds, consider bringing your vinyl our way.
At DJ RECORDS™, we’re here to give your records a new spin in life, no matter their size!