Vinyl records have experienced a significant resurgence in popularity in recent years. Despite the ongoing trend of digitalization across various industries, the music sector is witnessing a counter-movement. An increasing number of individuals, spanning different age groups, are opting for vinyl records, whether for contemporary music or timeless classics.
This article will explore the reasons behind the renewed affection for turntables and vinyl records among a diverse audience.
The pandemic
In 2021, vinyl records made a dramatic comeback, with total sales volume up 68% and total revenue up 55% year-over-year in the U.S. For the first time since 1985, vinyl sales surpassed $1 billion.
This resurgence can be partly attributed to the COVID-19 pandemic. During lockdowns and quarantines, people sought new hobbies and distractions, and record collecting emerged as a popular pastime.
Sound quality
One of the main reasons for the renewed popularity of vinyl is, according to many, the better sound quality. Digitization means an improvement in quality in many sectors. For example, the best casino without Cruks has a much larger range of games than a physical casino, and with your laptop you have a much better word processor than with a typewriter.
But vinyl is an exception to this trend. It offers a warmer, richer sound than digital formats, which are often praised for their clarity and precision but are sometimes considered too sterile. Many music lovers believe that vinyl captures the music in a more authentic way.
After all, every sound in a digital Hifi must first be converted into a computer signal, which sometimes causes nuances and textures to be lost in digital compression. This ‘analog charm’ contributes to the appeal of vinyl.
Nostalgia
Nostalgia also plays a crucial role in the vinyl revival. For many people, especially the older generation, playing a vinyl record brings back memories of earlier times, when music was a physical and cultural experience.
The rituals of playing vinyl—carefully selecting a record, placing it on the turntable, and dropping the needle—offer a sense of authenticity and involvement that digital listening just can’t match. This element of nostalgia has a powerful appeal to both older generations and newcomers looking for a taste of the past.
Digital overload
In an age where digital media is all-encompassing, many people are experiencing digital overload. Streaming services and digital files offer convenience, but can also lead to a superficial experience of music.
Vinyl offers a welcome change by providing a more intimate and conscious listening experience. The physical aspect of vinyl — flipping records and searching for specific songs — forces listeners to pay more attention to their music choices and the listening experience.
Collectibility
The collectibility of vinyl records is another important factor in the comeback. Records are not only music carriers but also collectibles. Rare releases, first pressings and limited editions have considerable value to collectors. This has led to a booming market for vintage records and has inspired new generations to build their own collections.
Aesthetics
Finally, the aesthetics of vinyl play an important role. The large size of record sleeves provides a visual and artistic canvas that cannot be reproduced in digital formats. For many people, collecting vinyl is a form of art collecting, with the graphic designs of sleeves and the physical beauty of the records being an important part of the experience.
How to choose the best turntable?
Choosing the best turntable depends on several factors, including your budget, your listening needs, and the space you’ll be placing the turntable in. Start by determining your budget, as turntables range from entry-level to high-end systems. Consider the quality of the turntable itself: a good turntable will have a sturdy, stable base to minimize vibration and a precision-balanced spinning system.
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Also pay attention to the cartridge and needle, which affect the sound quality; higher quality cartridges often offer better sound reproduction. It is also important to check whether the turntable has a built-in preamp or whether you need a separate preamp, depending on your amplifier and speakers.
Don’t forget the aesthetic preferences, such as the design and finish of the turntable, which will match your interior. If possible, test different models to assess which one best suits your musical preferences and listening conditions. For more professional users, there are even special test records to see if everything is set up correctly.
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