45 RPM (rotations per minute) vinyl records are typically 7 inches in diameter and have a single song or two on each side. They were introduced in the late 1940s and quickly became the most popular format for singles. 45 RPM records are typically played on specialized turntables that have a 45 RPM adapter.
Some examples of vinyls that play at 45 RPM include:
- Singles: Most singles released in the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s were released on 45 RPM vinyl. Some popular examples include “Hound Dog” by Elvis Presley, “I Want to Hold Your Hand” by The Beatles, and “Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen.
- Extended plays (EPs): EPs are short albums that typically contain four to six songs. They were often released by bands and artists to showcase new music or to release songs that were not long enough for a full album. Some popular examples include “Pet Sounds” by The Beach Boys, “Abbey Road” by The Beatles, and “What’s Going On” by Marvin Gaye.
- Picture discs: Picture discs are special types of vinyl records that have a picture or image on the surface of the record. They are often released as collector’s items or to commemorate special occasions. Some popular examples include the picture disc release of the soundtrack to the film “Saturday Night Fever” and the picture disc release of the album “Thriller” by Michael Jackson.
45 RPM vinyl records are still popular today, especially among collectors and audiophiles. They offer a number of advantages over other formats, including:
- Sound quality: 45 RPM vinyl records offer superior sound quality to other formats, such as CDs and streaming services. This is because the grooves on a 45 RPM record are wider and deeper, which allows for a more accurate reproduction of the music.
- Durability: 45 RPM vinyl records are also more durable than other formats. They are less susceptible to scratches and warping, and they can last for many years with proper care.
- Collectibility: 45 RPM vinyl records are highly collectible, especially among fans of classic rock and roll. This is because many of the most popular and iconic songs from this era were released on 45 RPM vinyl.
If you are looking for a superior listening experience and are willing to invest in a good quality turntable, then 45 RPM vinyl records are a great option. They offer the best possible sound quality, durability, and collectibility.