top of page
Writer's pictureYiannis

All You Need to Know About Vinyl Record Sizes

Updated: Jul 31

Here at Cuts on Wax, we love vinyl! But with all the different record sizes out there, it can be confusing to know which one is right for your music. This guide will break down the most common vinyl record sizes and offer some helpful tips to ensure your record sounds its best.


The Big Three: 12", 10", and 7"

These are the most commonly encountered vinyl record sizes:

  • 12 Inch (LP): The king of vinyl, the 12-inch record, also known as an LP (Long Play), is the standard format for albums. It can hold a significant amount of music, typically around 20 minutes per side at 33⅓ RPM.

  • 10 Inch : Less common than 12" or 7" records, 10-inch records were more popular in the early days of vinyl. They typically spin at 45 RPM and hold less music than a 12-inch record, but more than a 7-inch.

  • 7 Inch (Single): The perfect format for singles or EPs (Extended Plays), 7-inch records spin mostly at 45 RPM and hold one song per side.


Playing Time and Optimal Sound Quality

When it comes to vinyl, size matters for sound quality. Here's a handy guide to recommended playing times for each size and speed to get the best audio experience:

Record Size

Speed

Recommended Maximum Side Length

12 Inch

33⅓ RPM

18 minutes

10 Inch

33⅓ RPM

13 minutes

7 Inch

33⅓ RPM

6 minutes

12 Inch

45 RPM

14 minutes

10 Inch

45 RPM

10 minutes

7 Inch

45 RPM

4 minutes 30 seconds

Choosing the Right Size for Your Music

The size of vinyl record you choose will depend on the type of music you're pressing. Here's a quick breakdown:

  • 12 Inch: Perfect for full-length albums.

  • 10 Inch: Great for shorter collections of songs, like EPs or compilations.

  • 7 Inch: Ideal for singles or short collections of tracks.


Cuts on Wax: Your Partner in Vinyl

We hope this guide has helped you understand the different vinyl record sizes and how they impact your music. If you're planning to press your own vinyl, Cuts on Wax is here to help! We offer a variety of pressing options and can advise you on the best format for your music. Visit our website or contact us today to learn more!

184 views0 comments

Recent Posts

See All

What are lathe cut records?

Lathe-Cut Records: A Unique Option for Custom Vinyl on Cuts on Wax Here at Cuts on Wax, we understand your passion for vinyl and the...

Opmerkingen


bottom of page