Producing a Record: An Explanation
On August 12th, we mark a significant milestone in the history of music - the day of the gramophone record. This day commemorates the completion of Thomas Edison's phonograph in 1877, a precursor to the modern turntable we know today [2].
The vinyl gramophone record, a popular medium for music enthusiasts, is made by molding polyvinyl chloride (PVC) into a flat disc with a continuous spiral groove etched on its surface. This groove encodes sound as modulated undulations [1][3][4]. During playback, a stylus (needle) traces this groove, reproducing the recorded sound vibrations.
The manufacturing process starts with creating a master disc that captures the analog audio in the form of microscopic groove variations [1][3][4]. This master is used to produce a negative metal stamper, which then molds heated PVC into the finished vinyl record discs with precise groove patterns.
PVC is well suited for storing and playing music because it is a durable, flexible plastic that withstands repeated stylus contact without degrading quickly. It provides a smooth surface essential for accurate groove formation and long-lasting playback quality [1][4]. Its low friction and stable physical properties reduce groove wear and provide consistent sound reproduction. These characteristics have made PVC the standard material for vinyl records since the 1940s, replacing older brittle shellac discs that were more fragile and noisy during playback [1][4].
Before vinyl gramophone records, shellac records were used, made from the secretions of lac insects. These records were thicker, more brittle, and had limited playing time compared to vinyl records [5].
The record's suitability as a data storage medium is demonstrated by the Voyager Golden Records. Launched in 1977, the Voyager 1 and 2 spacecraft were equipped with gold-plated copper records, containing images and audio information, including music and speeches in 55 languages. These records have a lifespan of over half a billion years, making them interesting as an analog storage medium for further research [6].
Prof. Dr. Stephanie Düttmann and Martin Althoff from FH Münster recently explained the creation and workings of the gramophone record on Record Day [7]. The Nutrition Council of Münster e. V. is also hosting a summer course at "Spachtel-Leeze" [8].
Intriguingly, an international study published by the LWL Museum of Natural History in Münster and the Natural History Museum in Vienna has discovered 27 new ancient crayfish species in Australia [9]. This finding underscores the potential for continued discovery and innovation, even in areas seemingly unrelated to music and technology.
As we celebrate the vinyl gramophone record, we are reminded of its enduring impact on music and the potential for continued innovation in data storage technologies.
References: 1. The Gramophone Record 2. The Phonograph 3. The Vinyl Record Manufacturing Process 4. Why Vinyl Records Sound Better Than Digital 5. The History of the Gramophone Record 6. The Voyager Golden Records 7. Prof. Dr. Stephanie Düttmann and Martin Althoff on Record Day 8. Summer Course at "Spachtel-Leeze" 9. Discovery of 27 New Ancient Crayfish Species in Australia
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