How Much Does a Custom Vinyl Record Weigh?
Vinyl records have made a remarkable comeback in recent years, captivating audiophiles and music enthusiasts with their warm sound and nostalgic appeal. As vinyl records continue to gain popularity, many individuals are curious about their weight and the weight’s implications on quality, collectability, and playback. In this article, we will delve into the world of vinyl records and explore how much they weigh, examining factors such as materials, thickness options, colors, and sizes.
Ultimately, the weight of your vinyl record should not have significant impact on the quality of the playback except in extreme circumstances. The weight of your vinyl record mostly impacts the aesthetics of handling and experiencing the vinyl. The one caveat to this statement is that you also need a turntable and stylus that is capable of playing multiple weights and sizes without issue. A very cheap or unstable turntable will struggle with different weights and sizes, and may impact playback quality on a number of levels.
Materials Used in Vinyl Records
Vinyl records are primarily composed of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a durable and versatile plastic. PVC is an excellent material choice for records – and has been the preferred mode for vinyl record production since the 1940s – as it provides the necessary strength and flexibility to withstand repeated playbacks without significant wear. Additionally, it allows for the grooves to be accurately pressed during the manufacturing process, ensuring high-quality audio reproduction.
In recent years, more environmentally friendly versions of PVC (which use lower amounts of oil and pollutants while maintaining the same amazing long-lasting qualities of the original PVC) have come into use and can be found in a number of vinyl records. These new materials should not impact vinyl records’ weight, as they can be used in the same proportions as existing materials to create the records you know and love.
Thickness Options for Vinyl Records
Vinyl records are available in various thickness options, with the most common choices being 1.5mm. A more trendy option of late is the 2mm thick vinyl record, which feels more “weighty” – more solid – and may be slightly less prone to warping given the increased thickness of the material. There are also 1mm vinyl records, although this thickness tends to only exist in 7” singles, as a larger format record would be subject to significant bending and warping if it is only 1mm thick. Most manufacturers shy away from 1mm vinyl records in favor of 1.5mm or 2mm records.
For a 12-inch vinyl record, a 1.5mm thickness tends to correlate to a 140-160 gram weight. A 2mm thickness correlates to a heavier weight of 180-200 grams.
Colors Available for Vinyl Records
Vinyl records come in a myriad of colors, adding an exciting visual element to the listening experience. Traditional black vinyl records remain the most common, but colored vinyl has gained popularity over the years. The addition of pigments to the PVC during the manufacturing process allows for a wide range of vibrant colors, including translucent, marbled, splatter, and picture discs. It's important to note that, while there may be slight variations, the color of a vinyl record does not significantly affect its weight.
Different Sizes of Vinyl Records and Their Weight
Vinyl records are produced in various sizes, each offering a distinct listening experience. Here are the most common sizes and their associated weights:
- 12-inch LP (Long Play) Records: As mentioned earlier, standard 12-inch LP records typically weigh between 140 and 200 grams, depending on thickness of the vinyl record. These records provide ample space for longer albums, allowing for a high fidelity, long play audio experience.
- 10-inch EP (Extended Play) Records: 10-inch EP records are smaller in size and often contain shorter albums or collections of songs. They typically weigh around 140-160 grams at a 2mm thickness, slightly lower with a 1.5mm thickness.
- 7-inch Singles: The original vinyl record format, 7-inch vinyl singles are lightweight, weighing approximately 40-60 grams. These records typically feature one song per side, making them perfect for hit singles and jukebox play.
Examples of Unique Vinyl Record Weights, Colors, and Packages
"The White Stripes - Elephant": The vinyl edition of this iconic album features a weight of 180 grams. With its heavyweight construction, the record provides enhanced audio fidelity and durability. The record is pressed on red and white marbled vinyl, adding a visually striking element to the listening experience.
"Daft Punk - Random Access Memories": This Grammy-winning album offers a deluxe box set version that includes a 180-gram vinyl record. The record is pressed on translucent blue vinyl, further complementing the album's futuristic aesthetic. The package includes a variety of exclusive artwork and collectible components.
Conclusion
Vinyl records come in a range of weights, primarily influenced by their size, thickness, and construction. A standard 12-inch record weighs between 140 and 200 grams, while a 7-inch record is lighter, weighing approximately 40-60 grams. However, various factors, such as heavyweight pressings and audiophile editions, can contribute to unique vinyl record weights. Colors and packages also add aesthetic appeal to vinyl records without significantly affecting their weight. So, whether you're a vinyl enthusiast seeking a specific weight or simply curious about the world of vinyl, understanding the factors that influence vinyl record weight adds another layer of appreciation to this beloved musical format.
