So You’ve Caught the Vinyl Bug—Now Let’s Talk the Talk
Maybe you just bought your first LP, or maybe your collection already runs deep. Either way, once you enter the world of vinyl, you realize there’s more to it than just spinning records. There’s a whole language that comes with the territory—and learning it makes the experience that much richer.
From EPs and LPs to grooves, plinths, and that cryptic writing in the dead wax, every part of a record tells a story. And just like music itself, vinyl rewards those who take the time to understand its craft.
At Memphis Record Pressing, we live for this stuff—and we want you to feel just as at home in the wax world as we do. So we’ve put together a glossary of essential vinyl terms. Whether you’re digging through crates, setting up your first turntable, or trying to decode the etchings on a rare pressing, this list has you covered.
20 Terms Every Record Lover Should Know
1. LP (Long Play)
A full-length vinyl record, typically 12 inches in diameter, played at 33 1/3 RPM. Standard format for albums.
2. EP (Extended Play)
Shorter than an LP but longer than a single—usually 3 to 5 songs. Commonly found in 7″ or 10″ sizes.
3. RPM (Revolutions Per Minute)
The speed at which a record spins. Most albums are 33 1/3 RPM, while singles and EPs often play at 45 RPM. Some vintage records play at 78 RPM.
4. Pressing
The specific manufacturing run of a vinyl record. First pressings are often the most collectible and valued.
5. Reissue
A newer release of an older album, often remastered and sometimes featuring bonus tracks or updated artwork.
6. Gatefold
A record sleeve that opens like a book, often used for double LPs or albums with expansive artwork and liner notes.
7. Dead Wax
The space between the final groove and the center label. Often includes etched messages, matrix numbers, or mastering initials.
8. Matrix Number
A unique identifier etched into the dead wax. Helps collectors identify the specific pressing or mastering source of a record.
9. Sleeve
The outer cover of a vinyl record, which often includes album art, credits, and other design elements.
10. Inner Sleeve
The paper or plastic sleeve that protects the record inside the jacket. Can be basic or printed with lyrics, credits, or imagery.
11. Groove
The spiral track etched into the vinyl surface that contains the music. This is where the stylus tracks to produce sound.
12. Warping
A physical distortion in the vinyl, usually caused by heat, pressure, or improper storage. Severely warped records can be unplayable.
13. Surface Noise
Background pops, crackles, or hiss heard during playback—especially on older or dusty records. Part of the analog charm (or annoyance, depending on who you ask).
14. Cueing
Manually placing the stylus on a specific track. Many turntables include a cue lever to help with this.
15. Tracking Force
The amount of downward pressure the stylus applies to the record. Too much or too little can damage grooves or affect sound quality.
16. Anti-Skate
A turntable setting that prevents the tonearm from pulling inward too aggressively, ensuring balanced tracking.
17. Plinth
The base of a turntable. It houses the motor and supports the platter and tonearm, often designed to reduce vibration.
18. Stylus (Needle)
The small diamond-tipped component that rides the groove to read audio information. Stylus wear and quality greatly affect sound.
19. Cartridge
Holds the stylus and converts the mechanical vibrations into an electrical signal sent to your speakers. Comes in various types and price ranges.
20. Audiophile Pressing
A premium-quality vinyl release, often heavier (180g or 200g) and pressed with superior mastering and materials for high-fidelity playback.
Learn the Lingo, Love the Format
Understanding the language of vinyl helps you appreciate the format on a whole new level. It’s not just about collecting music—it’s about connecting with the craftsmanship, the culture, and the community behind it.
And if you ever find yourself wondering what a particular etching means or whether a pressing is original, you’ll be ready to talk the talk.
Got a question we didn’t cover? Curious about pressing your own record? We’ve got answers—and a press room ready to go.
Call to Action:
Ready to bring your own vinyl project to life?
Whether you’re a first-time artist or a seasoned label, Memphis Record Pressing is here to guide you through the entire process—from test press to turntable.
Contact us today and let’s press something worth spinning.
