The revival of records
24.6.2016
Translation: machine translated
Since streaming and MP3 downloads have made music increasingly impersonal, many people are longing to be able to hold music in their hands again. This has given retro technology a new lease of life and is making its way back into our lives. One important advantage is obvious: the warm, rich music of records is unique and makes other media look old. But how do record players work and how do you look after records? Find out more here.
How record players work
Records have irregular sound grooves that are scanned by the record player's stylus. While the turntable with the disc on it rotates, the sound is picked up by the needle. The vibrations of the needle as it scans the record grooves are converted into electrical currents and reproduced as sound signals. So that you can hear the music, it is important that the currents are equalised and amplified. Many record players have integrated speakers that amplify the sound signals. If this is not the case, you will need to connect the record player to HiFi or home cinema speakers. Depending on the size of the record, you may also need to adjust the speed on the turntable.
How to ensure good sound quality
You can influence the sound quality to some extent yourself by ensuring that the sound is not reflected. If you have connected the record player to a speaker system, you can position the speakers in the room so that good sound is guaranteed from all sides. Careful handling of the records also has a decisive influence on the sound.
How to store your records
You should always store your records upright in a dry and clean place. Even slight tilting should be avoided at all costs during storage. This could cause the boards to deform over time - which can also happen if too much pressure is applied. If you squeeze too many discs into a compartment due to a lack of space, a rule of thumb applies: a sheet of paper should still fit between them. However, the worst case scenario occurs if you expose your records to extreme heat. For example, through direct sunlight, which also bleaches the cover. Vinyl is already a very soft material and melts at temperatures of 35 degrees and above - until it becomes unusable. Once the record has been deformed, it can only be straightened again using harsh means and with a loss of quality. If the record is ruined, it should be disposed of as hazardous waste, as vinyl consists largely of oil.
The incorrect storage of records causes deformation
How to clean vinyl records
Sooner or later, you will need to remove dust deposits from your records. Don't use a dry cloth or any kind of home remedy, as both could damage the vinyl. Dust is best removed with a special carbon brush after the record has been placed on the platter. For heavy soiling, it is best to use a damp microfibre cloth. However, care must be taken here to avoid damaging the plate.
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Tanja Lehmann
Senior Category Business Manager
tanja.lehmann@digitecgalaxus.chFriends, family, cats and good wine are my lifeblood.
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