The term “12-inch record” refers to the diameter of the record, but it is important to note that the actual diameter of a 12-inch record is slightly less than 12 inches. The standard diameter of a 12-inch record is 11.89 inches.
There are a few reasons why 12-inch records are not exactly 12 inches in diameter. One reason is that the record needs to have a groove that is wide enough to accommodate the needle of the record player. If the record were exactly 12 inches in diameter, then the groove would be too narrow and the needle would be more likely to skip.
Another reason why 12-inch records are not exactly 12 inches in diameter is that the record needs to have a spindle hole in the center. The spindle hole is what allows the record to be placed on the record player. If the record were exactly 12 inches in diameter, then the spindle hole would be too close to the edge of the record and the record would be more likely to break.
Finally, it is also important to note that the manufacturing process for vinyl records is not perfect. There can be slight variations in the diameter of the records, depending on the manufacturer and the batch of records that they are producing.
Fun facts about vinyl records
- The first vinyl record was released in 1948.
- The best-selling vinyl record of all time is Michael Jackson’s Thriller, which has sold over 70 million copies worldwide.
- Vinyl records are making a comeback! In recent years, there has been a resurgence in interest in vinyl records, with sales increasing steadily.
Tips for caring for your vinyl records
Vinyl records are delicate and require proper care to keep them in good condition. Here are some tips:
- Clean your records regularly. You can use a record brush and record cleaner to remove dust and dirt. Be careful not to touch the playing surface of the record with your fingers, as this can leave fingerprints and oils that can degrade the record over time.
- Store your records in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing your records in direct sunlight or in humid conditions.
- Handle your records carefully. Avoid dropping or bumping records, as this can damage them. Be careful not to bend or scratch records, as this can also damage them.
By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your vinyl records remain in good condition for many years to come.
So, are 12 records actually 12 inches? The answer is no, but they are very close. The standard diameter of a 12-inch record is 11.89 inches. There are a few reasons for this slight difference in size, including the need for a groove that is wide enough to accommodate the needle of the record player, the need for a spindle hole in the center of the record, and the fact that the manufacturing process for vinyl records is not perfect.
However, it is important to note that the slight difference in size does not affect the sound quality of the record. 12-inch records still offer the best sound quality of all vinyl record sizes.