An electronic device that amplifies the audio signal to make it audible through speakers or headphones. It increases the signal’s power without distorting the sound and can come in various forms, such as a preamplifier or power amplifier, depending on the application.
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Amplifier
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Analog signal
A continuous signal that transmits information through a variable physical quantity, such as electrical voltage. In the audio field, this means the signal directly represents sound waves, as opposed to digital signals, which are encoded in discrete values.
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Belt drive
A mechanism in which the turntable is driven by a rubber belt. This can result in quieter and more vibration-free playback.
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Calibration
The process of adjusting and measuring a device to ensure it delivers accurate results.
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Cartridge
A device that converts the mechanical vibrations of a turntable needle into electrical signals. It consists of a magnet and coil or a piezoelectric material that reacts to the needle’s movements, extracting the sound from the record.
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Cassette
A magnetic tape format used for recording and playback of audio.
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Cleaning
The maintenance and cleaning of records, cartridges, and other components to prolong their lifespan and preserve sound quality.
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Contact force
The pressure exerted by the stylus on the record. It must be correctly adjusted to ensure optimal sound quality and minimal wear on the record.
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Direct drive
A mechanism where the turntable is directly driven by a motor. This can be more precise and robust, often used by DJs.
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Dynamic range
The difference between the loudest and quietest part of an audio signal that a device can process without distortion.
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Extended Play (EP)
A record that is longer than a single but shorter than an LP. It typically has a runtime of about 15 to 22, sometimes up to 30 minutes.
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Frequency response
The graphical representation of how an audio system or device responds to different frequencies. It indicates which frequencies are amplified, attenuated, or reproduced neutrally, providing insights into sound quality.
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Groove
The spiral groove on the surface of a record that contains audio signals. The cartridge follows this groove to read the signal.
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Harmonic distortion
Additional frequencies generated by the audio device that were not present in the original signal. These can distort the sound.
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High Fidelity (Hi-Fi)
A term for high-quality audio reproduction where sound signals are reproduced with high accuracy and minimal distortion. It is often associated with stereo systems or audio equipment delivering natural and detailed sound.
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High-end audio
Audio systems and components of the highest quality, often employing particularly sophisticated and expensive technologies to achieve the best possible sound reproduction.
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Idler-wheel drive
A mechanism for driving the turntable of a record player or similar device. In idler-wheel drive, the turntable is powered by a wheel pressed against its underside. It tends to produce more vibrations and noise than direct or belt drive, especially if the idler wheel wears out or is not properly adjusted.
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Long Play (LP)
A record with a length of up to 45 minutes per side, typically 33 1/3 RPM. It has a larger capacity than a single.
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Loudspeaker
Devices that convert electrical signals into audible sound waves.
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Mono
Mono (monophonic) is an audio format where the sound comes from a single sound source. It is played back as a single channel.
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Phonograph
An early mechanical device that reads records and converts sound waves into mechanical motion. It was originally developed by Thomas Edison and uses a needle that tracks the grooves of a record to reproduce sound.
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Platter
The part of a record player where the record rests and spins. The turntable is crucial for maintaining consistent rotational speed, affecting playback accuracy. It can be powered by various drive systems, such as belt or direct drive.
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Power amplifier
An amplifier that boosts the audio signal after it has been pre-amplified to a level sufficient to drive speakers. It is responsible for the final power boost needed to make the sound audible.
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Preamplifier
A device that amplifies the signal from a cartridge to a level suitable for the main amplifier. It may also offer additional functions like RIAA equalization.
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Quadraphonic sound
A surround sound system that uses four independent audio channels to create spatial sound reproduction. When playing quadraphonic audio, sound is distributed across four speakers – typically front left, front right, rear left, and rear right – to create a three-dimensional listening experience. Quadraphonic sound was popular in the 1970s but has mostly been replaced by modern multichannel systems like 5.1 and 7.1 surround sound.
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Receiver
A device that receives, amplifies, and processes radio or audio signals for output. In audio contexts, often part of a hi-fi system.
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Record
An analog storage medium where music or other audio recordings are etched in the form of grooves on a flat disc, typically made of vinyl. During playback, a needle tracks the grooves, converting the mechanical movements into audio signals.
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RIAA curve
A standardized frequency response curve that enables precise adjustments for vinyl record recordings. During recording, a filter is applied to reduce low frequencies and boost high frequencies to compensate for the physical limitations of the vinyl format. During playback, the reverse curve is applied to restore the sound to its original form and achieve a linear, flat frequency response.
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RPM (Revolutions Per Minute)
The number of revolutions a turntable makes per minute. Common speeds are 33 1/3 RPM for LPs, 45 RPM for singles, and 78 RPM for shellac records.
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Shellac
An older material from which records were made before vinyl was introduced. Shellac records are more brittle and had lower sound quality compared to modern vinyl records.
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Signal-to-noise ratio
The ratio between the desired audio signal and unwanted noise. A higher value means clearer sound.
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Single
A record typically featuring one main track and a B-side. It usually has a length of about 2 to 5 minutes per side.
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Skipping
The issue where the needle of a record player skips over a part of the groove, often caused by dirt or damage to the record.
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Stereo
Stereo (stereophony) uses two separate sound channels to create the impression of space and depth.
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Stereophonic sound
The sound created using two or more audio channels to provide spatial and realistic sound reproduction.
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Stylus
The part of the cartridge that directly contacts the grooves of the record. It converts the vibrations caused by the grooves into mechanical movements, which are then converted into electrical signals by the cartridge.
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Surface noise
The audible noise caused by the surface of a record. It can result from dust or scratches.
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Tape machine
An analog recording and playback device that uses magnetic tape as a medium. It is commonly used for studio recording and archiving.
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Tonearm
The arm of a turntable that guides the cartridge across the record. It is essential for accurately tracking the groove.
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Turntable
A device that plays records. It typically includes the turntable, tonearm, and cartridge.
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Vintage
Devices or music recordings from an earlier time, often valued for their historical significance or unique style.
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Vinyl
A material from which most modern records are made. It provides better sound quality and durability than shellac.
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Wow and flutter
Terms for irregular fluctuations in a turntable’s speed. “Wow” refers to slower speed changes, while “flutter” is faster and more variable.
