The world of vinyl records and turntables can be fascinating and rewarding for music enthusiasts, but it can also be confusing, especially when it comes to the terminology. One of the primary sources of confusion is the various names used to refer to the device that plays vinyl records. In this article, we will explore the different terms used and clarify what a vinyl player is called.
Turntable
The most common and widely accepted term for a vinyl player is “turntable.” A turntable is a piece of audio equipment designed for playing vinyl records. It consists of a motorized platter that rotates the record, a tonearm with a stylus (needle) that reads the grooves on the record, and a cartridge that converts the mechanical vibrations into electrical signals. The term “turntable” is widely used in the audio industry and is recognized by both audiophiles and casual listeners.
Record Player
“Record player” is another commonly used term to refer to a vinyl player. While it is less specific than “turntable,” it is widely understood to mean a device for playing vinyl records. Record players often include built-in speakers and amplifiers, making them a self-contained unit for playing records. Some purists may prefer the term “turntable” to distinguish from record players that may have lower audio fidelity.
Phonograph
“Phonograph” is an older term that was commonly used in the early days of recorded music. It was Thomas Edison who first patented the phonograph in 1877, which used a rotating cylinder to reproduce sound. Over time, the term “phonograph” has become somewhat outdated, and it is now more often associated with vintage or antique record players. However, it still accurately refers to a device that plays records.
Record Changer
A “record changer” is a specific type of turntable that is designed to play multiple records in succession automatically. These devices were more common in the mid-20th century and were often used in jukeboxes and home entertainment systems. Record changers could stack multiple records, and as one finished playing, the mechanism would automatically drop the next one onto the platter.
Conclusion
In summary, the device used to play vinyl records is most commonly referred to as a “turntable.” However, you may also hear it called a “record player” or, less frequently, a “phonograph.” The terminology can vary depending on regional and generational differences, but the fundamental function remains the same: to play the beloved analog sound of vinyl records. Regardless of the term you use, a turntable or record player is the gateway to the immersive and timeless experience of vinyl music playback.
