Operation of a vinyl and a turntable
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC): durable and versatile plastic, used in products like pipes, cables, and vinyls, known for its resistance and longevity.
Microscopic grooves: grooves on vinyl records that contain audio information. By following them, the turntable's diamond picks up the vibrations, which are then transformed into sound.
33 RPM record: slow-rotating vinyls, allowing more music to be stored per side thanks to microscopic grooves that contain the audio information read by the turntable.
45 RPM record: smaller vinyls, generally used for singles, which rotate at a speed of 45 revolutions per minute, offering better sound quality for shorter durations.
Preamplifier: electronic device that amplifies weak audio signals, such as those from a vinyl turntable cartridge, to make them strong enough before sending them to a main amplifier. It is essential for obtaining clear and audible sound without distortion.
Amplifier: electronic device that increases the power of an audio signal to make it strong enough to be played through speakers. It takes a weak signal from a source, such as a preamplifier, and transforms it into a sound powerful enough for listening.
Moving magnet (MM) cartridge: type of cartridge used in vinyl turntables to convert the vibrations of the record grooves into an electrical signal. In this system, a small magnet is attached to the end of the cantilever (the rod that supports the diamond), and it moves between two coils to generate the audio signal. Moving magnet cartridges are popular for their robustness, simplicity, and generally lower cost compared to moving coil cartridges.
High Fidelity, a love declaration to vinyl
John Cusack: American actor, screenwriter, and producer, born in 1966. He is known for his roles in films like High Fidelity, Say Anything, and Being John Malkovich. With a diverse career, Cusack is appreciated for his performances in romantic comedies, dramas, and thrillers.
Damien Chazelle and his connection to vinyl culture
Audiophiles: music enthusiasts who seek the best possible sound quality. They invest in high-end audio equipment, such as amplifiers, speakers, and vinyl turntables, to reproduce sound as faithfully and authentically as possible, often preferring analog formats like vinyl.
Analog sound: type of audio signal where sound waves are recorded and reproduced in a continuous form, mimicking the natural variations of sound. Unlike digital sound, which converts audio into binary data, analog sound, like that produced by vinyl records or tapes, is considered by some audiophiles to offer a warmer and more authentic quality.