At Vinyleers, we love all kinds of records, regardless of their size. Two common formats in the world of vinyl are the 10-inch and 12-inch records. Each format has its own unique history, use, and charm.
The history of 10" records
10-inch records were one of the earliest formats used for gramophone records. In the early 20th century, 10-inch records were standard for both music and spoken word recordings. These records were typically played at 78 revolutions per minute (RPM) and could hold about three minutes of music per side. This format was widely used for singles and short music pieces.
10-inch records made a brief comeback in the 1940s and 1950s with the introduction of microgroove technology, allowing more music to be stored on the record. These records were often used for EPs (extended plays), which contained more music than a single but less than a full album.
The rise of 12" records
The 12-inch format was introduced in 1948 by Columbia Records with the launch of the long-playing (LP) record. These records spin at 33 1/3 RPM and can hold up to 20-25 minutes of music per side. This made them ideal for full albums and classical music pieces that lasted longer than three minutes.
12-inch records quickly became the standard for albums and remain so to this day. This format not only offers more space for music but also for extensive album covers, artwork, and liner notes, enhancing the overall album experience.
Technical differences
Playing time: 10-inch records usually hold less music per side than 12-inch records. This is due to their smaller size and the often higher playback speed (78 RPM) compared to 33 1/3 RPM for 12-inch LPs.
Groove width: 10-inch records that play at 78 RPM have wider grooves than the microgroove 33 1/3 RPM records. This means they require different needles for optimal sound reproduction.
Usage: 10-inch records were often used for singles and EPs, while 12-inch records are standard for full albums and longer music pieces.
Artistic and collectible value
10-inch records have nostalgic and collectible value, especially for lovers of old music and historical recordings. They offer a unique glimpse into the early days of music recording and playback.
12-inch records are favored by both artists and listeners for their capacity and the opportunities they provide for album art and extensive liner notes. The larger format also makes them visually appealing and ideal for displays and collections.
Conclusion
Whether you appreciate the historical charm of 10-inch records or the extended playing time and artistic possibilities of 12-inch records, each format holds its own unique place in the world of vinyl. At Vinyleers, we value the diversity and rich history of both formats and are proud to offer a wide range of records for every music lover.
