If you weren't around when records were the main means of playing music, you may not understand why they are so important. In fact, you may not even be familiar with how they are really different from CDs.
Invention of LPs and Compact Disc
LPs on a turntable
LPs or long playing records, were invented by Columbia Records in 1948.
Sony and Phillips designed the first compact disc in 1980.
Size Matters
Compact disc
LPs were originally 16 inches in diameter, but the popular models used for music were 13 inches.
Compact discs are 4.75 inches in diameter, making portability much simpler.
What are they made of?
LP
LPs are made of black lacquer vinyl created with groove for a phonograph needle to navigate across.
Compact discs are constructed of polycarbonate plastic coated with aluminum and a thin translucent acrylic protective coating.
Storage
program saved on compact disc
LPs only store analog sound.
Compact discs can store digital audio, video, digital photographs, and computer data such as documents saved on word processing programs.
Value
Original LP of The Muppet Show
According to LPNow.com, in 2009, out of print LPs ranged in price from $20-$50, but a serious collector will pay thousands of dollars for originals in good condition.
Most recording CDs music range from $19 to $100 depending on if it is a single disc or a collection of three or more.
Tags: compact disc, Compact discs, inches diameter, records were
