How a forgotten 1949 Format War shaped the future of records
Techmoan・2 minutes read
Vinyl singles and albums have different sizes, speeds, and spindle hole sizes, with the LP format replacing the 78 rpm record after World War II, leading to a format war between Columbia and RCA over 33, 45, and 78 rpm speeds. RCA eventually gave in to producing LPs due to market demands and efficiency testing showing that 45rpm was the most efficient speed, transitioning away from 45-only albums to embrace the LP format.
Insights
- Vinyl singles and albums have distinct sizes, speeds, and spindle hole sizes, with singles at 7 inches, 45 rpm, and large spindle holes, while albums are 12 inches, 33 and a third rpm, and have small spindle holes.
- The LP format introduced by Columbia post-World War II offered numerous advantages like longer playtime and better audio quality, leading to a format war with RCA's 45. Despite RCA's initial resistance, they eventually succumbed to market pressure and shifted to producing LPs, impacting the music industry's trajectory away from the 45 system.
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Recent questions
What are the differences between vinyl singles and albums?
Vinyl singles are 7 inches, play at 45 rpm, and have a large spindle hole. Vinyl albums are 12 inches, play at 33 and a third rpm, and have a small spindle hole. These formats were the result of a format war between companies, leading to deliberately incompatible sizes.
Why were LP records introduced as a replacement for 78 rpm records?
LP records were introduced after World War II by Columbia to replace the 78 rpm records. They offered advantages like longer playtime, better audio quality, and durability. The LP format had a higher groove density, lighter pickups, and cheaper production costs compared to previous formats.
Who played a significant role in the development and transition to the LP format?
Edward Wallace Stein, a key figure in the development of the LP format, had previously worked at RCA and played a significant role in the transition to the new format. Columbia strategically prepared for the LP format's launch, giving them a competitive edge over other record labels.
What were the key features of RCA's 45 format?
RCA's 45 format was a 7-inch disc playing at 45 rpm, initially designed for home use with efficient disc changers resembling jukeboxes. The format introduced colored vinyl discs with a color-coding scheme for different genres, boasting benefits like better sound quality, easy loading, and affordability.
Why did RCA eventually give in to producing LPs after initially resisting?
RCA engineers determined that 45rpm was the most efficient speed for records, covering 90% of consumer preferences. Despite initially resisting LP production, RCA eventually gave in due to pressure from artists and market demands. The decline of 45-only albums led to RCA producing LPs to meet consumer needs.
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