Oxford Duplication Centre

We offer output formats to Waveform Audio File Format (WAV, WAVE, Broadcast BWF) AIFF, MP3 or CD in formats 16-bit 44.1 kHz (CD) upto 24-bit 192 kHz.

Audio File Format Guide Who Does'nt Love a Good Clean | Acetate Transcription Cleaning BLOG

• Microgroove
• Long play (LP)
• 7-inch (single); 12-inch

Dates

Late 1940s – present

Common Size(s)

7"; 10"; 12" (diameter)

Description

Vinyl is a grooved disc audio format composed of polystyrene or polyvinyl chloride with stabilizers. There are also designations within the format, such as the "long playing" (LP) record, "extended play" (EP) record, or "single." In these cases, the diameter and playback speed (revolutions per minute, or "rpm") are often used interchangeably to refer to the disc format subtype. For instance, a "12-inch" (LP) is conventionally played at 33⅓ rpm. A "7-inch" (single) is played at 45 rpm and may also be referred to as a "45." The most common sizes are: 7-inch, 10-inch, and 12-inch. Most vinyl disc labels are glued onto surface, whereas most commercially pressed shellac disc labels are visibly embedded into the shellac surface.

Composition

Polyvinyl chloride (vinyl) or polystyrene disc

Deterioration

All grooved disc media is susceptible to warpage, breakage, groove wear, and surface contamination. Surface contamination includes dirt, dust, mold, and other foreign materials, all of which can abrade or damage the grooves and diminish playback sound quality. Vinyl discs are especially prone to scratches and abrasion due to their relatively soft material. If stored in an ideal environment (relatively low, stable temperature and humidity), vinyl discs are stable. However, high humidity and temperatures can adversely affect these discs by creating prime conditions for fungal growth. High temperatures may also cause the plastics to soften and warp, reducing the disc's sound quality or playability. Additionally, direct sunlight and UV rays can adversely affect the soft vinyl material.

Discs can be damaged by attendant materials like acidic cardboard (exterior) sleeves and non-archival plastic or paper (interior) sleeves, although some plastic sleeves may be acceptable for archival storage.

Risk Level

Vinyl-type 45s and LPs are not presently considered especially vulnerable to age-related deterioration or inherent vice. They are generally chemically stable and have a relatively long lifespan when stored properly. Playback equipment is still being manufactured. Therefore, discs of this type are generally a low preservation priority.

Playback

Our services offer clients archival analogue conversions using  Prism Sound and Izotope audio restoration to provide all supported digital output formats.  With our specialism in taking care of precious and valuable archives, clients are reassured of our experience and policies which underpin our award winning company.