New vinyl is thicker for a number of reasons, including:
- Improved resistance to warping. Thicker vinyl is less likely to warp than thinner vinyl. This is because thicker vinyl is more rigid and can better withstand the forces that can cause warping, such as heat, humidity, and pressure.
- Reduced surface noise. Thicker vinyl has a flatter surface than thinner vinyl, which can reduce surface noise. Surface noise is caused by the stylus (needle) of the record player vibrating as it tracks the grooves of the record. A flatter surface reduces the amount of vibration, which results in less surface noise.
- Improved sound quality. Thicker vinyl can produce better sound quality than thinner vinyl. This is because thicker vinyl can better absorb and dampen vibrations, which can lead to a more accurate and detailed sound.
Some people also believe that thicker vinyl can produce a “warmer” and more “musical” sound. However, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim.
The standard weight for vinyl records is 140 grams. However, many new vinyl releases are pressed on heavier vinyl, such as 180 grams or even 200 grams. Heavier vinyl is more expensive to produce, but it offers a number of benefits, as described above.
In addition to the benefits listed above, thicker vinyl can also be more durable and long-lasting than thinner vinyl. This is because thicker vinyl is less likely to be damaged by scratches or scuffs.
Overall, thicker vinyl offers a number of benefits over thinner vinyl. It is more durable, has less surface noise, and can produce better sound quality. As a result, thicker vinyl is becoming increasingly popular among audiophiles and people who want to get the most out of their vinyl records.
Here is an example of how thicker vinyl can improve sound quality:
When the stylus of a record player tracks the grooves of a record, it vibrates at the frequency of the music. These vibrations are transmitted through the record to the turntable platter and then to the sound system. If the record is too thin, it may not be able to support the stylus properly, which can result in distortion and unwanted noise. Thicker vinyl, on the other hand, can better support the stylus, resulting in a cleaner and more accurate sound.
In addition, thicker vinyl can help to reduce resonances. Resonances can occur when the stylus vibrates at a frequency that matches the natural frequency of the record. This can cause distortion and unwanted noise. Thicker vinyl can help to reduce resonances, resulting in a cleaner and more accurate sound.
Overall, thicker vinyl can produce better sound quality than thinner vinyl by reducing distortion, unwanted noise, and resonances.
