Why 78 RPM Records Were Discontinued: The Shift to Modern Formats
Explore why 78 RPM records became obsolete and the rise of 33 1/3 LPs and 45 singles.
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78 rpm records were discontinued due to technological advancements. They were made of brittle shellac, which was easily breakable. Transition to 33 1/3 rpm LPs and 45 rpm singles during the mid-20th century offered better sound quality and durability. Additionally, these new formats allowed for longer playtime, making them more convenient for consumers and music producers.
FAQs & Answers
- What are 78 RPM records? 78 RPM records were early phonograph records made of shellac, played at a speed of 78 revolutions per minute.
- What replaced 78 RPM records? 78 RPM records were replaced by 33 1/3 RPM LPs and 45 RPM singles, which offered better sound quality and longer playtime.
- Why were 78 RPM records considered fragile? They were made from brittle shellac, which was prone to breaking easily compared to more durable materials used in later formats.
- When did 78 RPM records stop being produced? Production of 78 RPM records largely ceased in the mid-20th century as new formats became more popular.