The spelling of the words "long playing record" can be broken down using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). "Long" is spelled /lɔŋ/, with the symbol "ɔ" representing the "aw" sound. "Playing" is spelled /ˈpleɪɪŋ/, with the symbol "eɪ" representing the "ay" sound. Lastly, "record" is spelled /ˈrɛkɔrd/, with the symbol "ɛ" representing the "eh" sound. Together, the word is pronounced /lɔŋ ˈpleɪɪŋ ˈrɛkɔrd/. The long playing record was a popular format for music in the mid 20th century.
A long-playing record, commonly known as an LP, is a vinyl disc used for the storage and playback of music or other audio content. It is one of the key formats of the analog era, predating the advent of digital audio technology. The term "long playing" refers to the extended duration of audio playback that this format offers compared to earlier formats like the 78 RPM record.
Typically, an LP consists of a flat circular disc made of vinyl, measuring 12 inches in diameter, and coated with microscopic grooves that contain the audio information. These grooves are read by a stylus or needle connected to a phonograph, gramophone, or turntable, which translates the physical movements into audible sound. The LP format allows for the storage of music on both sides of the disc, increasing the playing time and allowing for a more immersive and uninterrupted listening experience.
The long-playing record revolutionized the music industry by providing a platform for the high-fidelity reproduction of sound. Its wider grooves and slower rotational speed (usually 33 1/3 revolutions per minute) compared to earlier formats allowed for more detailed and higher-quality audio recordings. This format gained immense popularity throughout the 20th century and dominated the music market until the rise of compact discs and digital audio in the late 1980s. Despite its declining market share, LPs have experienced a recent resurgence in popularity among certain audiophiles and collectors, who appreciate the warm and nostalgic sound quality associated with this format.