The spelling of "record player" is straightforward when using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). According to the IPA, "record player" is spelled /ˈrɛkɔrd ˈpleɪər/. The first syllable is pronounced with a short "e" sound followed by "k" sound. The second syllable has a similar pronunciation to the word "lord." The final syllable is pronounced like the word "layer." Overall, "record player" is spelled phonetically based on the individual sounds in the word.
A record player, also known as a turntable or phonograph, refers to an audio playback device primarily used for reproducing sound from vinyl records. It consists of several essential components, including a motor, a platter, a tonearm, a cartridge, and a stylus.
The motor is responsible for turning the platter at precisely controlled speeds, usually 33 1/3, 45, or 78 revolutions per minute, allowing the vinyl record to rotate. The platter is where the record is placed, and it provides the platform for the record to spin. The tonearm, attached to the platter, holds the cartridge and stylus, which are responsible for reading and converting the physical grooves on the record into electrical signals.
The cartridge, usually consisting of a tiny magnet and coil, transforms the mechanical vibrations from the stylus into electrical signals. These signals are then sent through an amplifier to produce audible sound. Additionally, some record players come with built-in speakers, while others require external amplifiers or speakers for sound reproduction.
Record players have been a popular medium for music playback since the early 20th century, offering a unique warm and nostalgic sound character. Despite advancements in digital audio technology, record players remain favored by many music enthusiasts for the authentic vinyl listening experience they offer. They have also regained popularity in recent years, leading to a resurgence in the production and availability of vinyl records.
The word "record player" is composed of two different components.
"Record" comes from the Latin word "recordari", which means "to remember" or "to recall". It later evolved to the Old French word "record", which refers to a written account or a document.
"Player" has its roots in the Old English word "plegian", meaning "to exercise" or "to engage in physical activity". Over time, it expanded to encompass the idea of someone actively participating in a game or sport.
The term "record player" emerged in the 19th century, primarily used to describe a device that played recorded sound from vinyl records. The combination of "record" and "player" reflects the function of the device, which plays recorded sound or music.