Vinyl Record Glossary & Key Concepts

Vinyl Record Glossary & Key Concepts

Vinyl records come with their own language. This glossary explains the most common vinyl, turntable, and physical-media terms you’ll encounter while browsing or collecting records on Vinyl.ae.

All definitions below reflect how these terms are used across the Vinyl.ae catalog and editorial content.

LP (Long Play)

A full-length vinyl album, typically pressed on a 12-inch record and played at 33⅓ RPM. LPs usually contain an artist’s complete studio album.

EP (Extended Play)

A vinyl release shorter than an LP but longer than a single. EPs commonly feature 3–6 tracks and may be pressed on 10-inch or 12-inch vinyl.

Single

A vinyl record featuring one primary track per side. Singles are most often pressed as 7-inch records and played at 45 RPM.

Pressing

The physical manufacturing run of a vinyl record. Pressings are created using metal stampers that imprint grooves into heated vinyl.

Reissue

A later pressing of an album that was originally released in the past. Reissues may feature updated artwork, remastered audio, or modern vinyl materials.

Remastered

Audio that has been reprocessed from original recordings to improve clarity, balance, or dynamic range while preserving the original performance.

180g Vinyl

Heavier vinyl pressings weighing approximately 180 grams. These are valued for increased durability and stability, though weight alone does not guarantee better sound quality.

Analog Playback

Sound reproduction created through physical grooves on a vinyl record rather than digital encoding. Analog playback is often valued for its warmth and natural sound.

Turntable

A device that plays vinyl records by rotating the disc while a tonearm and stylus track the grooves. Turntables may be manual, semi-automatic, or fully automatic.

Stylus (Needle)

The fine tip attached to a cartridge that physically tracks the grooves of a vinyl record and converts vibrations into sound.

RPM (Revolutions Per Minute)

The speed at which a vinyl record spins on a turntable:

  • 33⅓ RPM – most full-length albums
  • 45 RPM – singles and some EPs

Sealed

Factory-wrapped, unopened physical media. Unless stated otherwise, vinyl records sold on Vinyl.ae are new and sealed.

Vinyl Care

Practices and accessories used to clean, store, and preserve vinyl records, including record sleeves, brushes, cleaning solutions, and proper storage techniques.

Why These Terms Matter

Understanding vinyl terminology helps collectors:

  • Choose the correct format and playback speed
  • Identify different editions and pressings
  • Care for records properly
  • Make informed purchasing decisions

For additional guidance, explore our editorial articles and buying guides on Vinyl.ae.