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Have you ever wondered if records spin only in one direction? Can they spin clockwise and counterclockwise? If they spin counterclockwise does the music and words play backwards? Are records able to play the same music and words no matter which direction they turn?
In this article we will help give some insight and answer these questions.
A record that is playing properly will be spinning to the right (also known as clockwise). In other countries (including Australia) records are actually designed to spin counterclockwise instead.
You may find that some record players may begin to play in the correct direction, but then change to playing backwards. If records only play in one direction, why are there different sizes of records, as well as different speeds? If you are confused about all the differences we are here to help!
You can also check out the video below if you want to watch instead of read as well.
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If you love records and record players, you must get a record-cleaning kit like this one. It is designed to ensure that your records stay in excellent condition to last you for decades.
Get this cleaning set and keep your vinyl records in perfect condition!
Why do records need to turn to create sound?
Records actually don’t need to turn to create sound. You may design a phonograph where the record stays in a set place, and the needle moves however there are no players that currently work this way.
The original record player’s inventor’s idea was most likely to simply turn the record. Simply turning the record is far easier than having the record stationary and the needle move.
Why are records in all these various sizes and RPMs?
Vinyl comes in various sizes, for the most part depending on how much music is contained on the record. A standard 7-inch single is smaller than a full-length collection since it contains less music. Additionally, small-sized records will normally be more affordable. On the other hand, there is a maximum amount of music or audio that can fit on a record before you run out of room or the audio starts decaying.
Putting less music on a bigger record can improve sound quality, which is one of the reasons why numerous singles intended for DJ use are put onto 10 and 12-inch records. They do this to suit a variety of music blends while taking into consideration amazing sound quality.
Should I think about purchasing old records, or should I only purchase new?
On the off chance that you are going to buy vinyl duplicates of your favorite records or albums, you should realize that numerous records either were never manufactured in large numbers or were made in small numbers and are currently no longer available. The last is particularly valid for vinyl created during the 90s through the start of the 21st century when vinyl sales were at their lowest levels and CDs ruled the market.
The vinyl pressings for major-name collections released right now are extraordinarily hard to find and very expensive to purchase on the secondary market. However, if you have a ton of persistence and cash is not an issue, you can find a great deal of this stuff on eBay.
On the other hand, you could simply wait it out and hope that the records you need to get will be reissued on vinyl.
In most people’s opinion the older records will sound a lot better than newly released vinyl. Of course that is certainly up for debate.
You can actually still purchase vinyl albums on Amazon right now! Here is one of my favorite vinyl albums, and it is totally worth the money in my opinion.
The Album is Michael Jackson’s Thriller and it can be found by clicking here.
Will LP records turn clockwise?
This is a very common question, do LPs turn clockwise? LPs turn the same way as normal vinyl records do. An LP and normal records are virtually the same so they will both spin clockwise as they follow the grooves on the record.
LPs can only play music by following the grooves in the records so the player has to turn the same way to get the music to play properly.
Most Popular Questions about Record Spinning
My turntable isn’t turning, how would I make it turn?
The first thing is to make sure that the turntable is connected to the control. Secondly, you will need to make sure the force/volume control handle is turned clockwise past where it makes a clicking sound. Thirdly, you will want to make sure the tonearm is ready to be dropped into the record groove using the tonearm switch.
My turntable is turning yet there is no sound coming from the speakers.
You will need to make sure that the stylus is sticking down from the cartridge. The next thing you will want to check is the volume. Increase the volume by turning the force/volume handle clockwise as it might be too low. Make sure that there is nothing connected to the 3.5mm earphone jack on the back of the player. Lastly you will want to check the position of the stylus to make sure that it has not moved out of its appropriate position.
My turntable seems like it is playing too fast or too slow.
You will need to make sure that the speed control switch is properly set for the record being played (33-1/3, 45, or 78 RPM)
If you play your record at a faster speed than the intended speed for the record, it will change how the record was intended to sound. On the other hand, if you play the record at a slower speed than the intended speed, the sound will be slowed. Even though you will be able to recognize the audio playing at faster and slower speeds, it will not sound normal.
It won’t damage the record to play it faster or slower but it can get annoying quite fast.
What issues could be caused if you turn the record backwards?
Numerous cartridges are not intended to run in reverse and it can damage the stylus unless it is a DJ record player that is designed for that purpose.
If you turn the record backwards or if your player is playing the record the wrong way not only will the record probably get damaged but it will sound horrible as well.
Some people have the opinion that if you play a record backwards, the sound that is made is of demons voices, or of the devil himself. Check out this video and let us know what you think?
Is it a terrible idea to play records at various speeds?
Playing a record at various speeds isn’t terrible. If you play a 33 at 45, it won’t harm the record. Regardless, if you play a record at the wrong speed it will only possibly cause issues after 1000s and 1000s of plays.
Being able to play records at the wrong speed can actually be quite humorous and can make your record playing even more enjoyable. Listening to a record in higher pitch (faster) or very low pitch (slow) is a fun way to spend an afternoon.
This will give you an idea of what it will sound like when you are playing a record at the wrong speed.
Is it hazardous to play records in reverse?
Playing records in reverse is very hazardous. Most cartridges hold the needle at one point. By playing it in reverse you’re gouging the needle into your records and will seriously damage them.
Playing records in reverse would harm the vinyl assuming your player isn’t from another country and designed to play the records backwards.
Conclusion
No matter what turntable you have, and no matter what speed you are playing, if the record is spinning backwards, it will almost always damage the record.
No one likes a damaged record, so I would recommend being cautious while playing records to ensure it is working properly before the needle drops. You can purchase a record player typically used in DJing that can be stopped and pushed backwards if you like.