{"id":32164,"date":"2024-03-13T17:10:02","date_gmt":"2024-03-13T17:10:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.av.com\/blog\/?p=32164"},"modified":"2026-01-13T12:06:53","modified_gmt":"2026-01-13T12:06:53","slug":"does-vinyl-sound-better","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.av.com\/blog\/does-vinyl-sound-better\/","title":{"rendered":"Does Vinyl Sound Better? Here&#8217;s How it Compares to Digital"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_85 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 eztoc-toggle-hide-by-default' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.av.com\/blog\/does-vinyl-sound-better\/#What_is_vinyl_and_how_does_it_work\" >What is vinyl and how does it work?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.av.com\/blog\/does-vinyl-sound-better\/#Does_vinyl_sound_better_than_digital\" >Does vinyl sound better than digital?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.av.com\/blog\/does-vinyl-sound-better\/#Compression\" >Compression<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.av.com\/blog\/does-vinyl-sound-better\/#Frequency_response_and_distortion\" >Frequency response and distortion<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.av.com\/blog\/does-vinyl-sound-better\/#Dynamic_range\" >Dynamic range<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.av.com\/blog\/does-vinyl-sound-better\/#Mechanical_noise\" >Mechanical noise<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.av.com\/blog\/does-vinyl-sound-better\/#Other_benefits_of_listening_to_vinyl\" >Other benefits of listening to vinyl<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.av.com\/blog\/does-vinyl-sound-better\/#FAQs\" >FAQs<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.av.com\/blog\/does-vinyl-sound-better\/#Does_vinyl_offer_better_sound_quality\" >Does vinyl offer better sound quality?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.av.com\/blog\/does-vinyl-sound-better\/#Can_CDs_sound_better_than_vinyl\" >Can CDs sound better than vinyl?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.av.com\/blog\/does-vinyl-sound-better\/#Do_vinyl_players_affect_the_sound_quality\" >Do vinyl players affect the sound quality?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.av.com\/blog\/does-vinyl-sound-better\/#Final_thoughts\" >Final thoughts<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<p>[et_pb_section fb_built=&#8221;1&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.16&#8243; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.16&#8243; background_size=&#8221;initial&#8221; background_position=&#8221;top_left&#8221; background_repeat=&#8221;repeat&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_column type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.16&#8243; custom_padding=&#8221;|||&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221; custom_padding__hover=&#8221;|||&#8221;][et_pb_text admin_label=&#8221;Intro&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.18.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p>In recent years, we&#8217;ve seen a huge resurgence in vinyl. But why do we enjoy these large flimsy pieces of pressed vinyl so much?<\/p>\n<p>Some of this is down to nostalgia. Some of it is down to the interaction you get with your music. But the main reason is vinyl&#8217;s musicality; many of us crave better sound quality after being served digital mediums like the ultra-compressed MP3 format.<\/p>\n<p>Vinyl records take their information from the \u201cmaster copy\u201d. This copy is the purest format, allowing the full dynamic range to be heard. Digital formats, on the other hand, have an additional level of gain &#8211; and they&#8217;re compressed, meaning they sound louder and thinner at the same time.<\/p>\n<p>One thing we cannot argue is that these digital mediums all have their place. They&#8217;ve allowed us to enjoy more music than ever, and it\u2019s only getting better thanks to streaming devices like <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.av.com\/Hi-Fi\/WiiM-Pro-Plus-Audiophile-Grade-Multi-Room-Music-Streamer\/5X66\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">WiiM Pro Plus<\/a><\/strong> solutions.<\/p>\n<p>However, if you own a turntable, you\u2019ll understand that nothing brings a level of musical enjoyment quite like it. Vinyl records offer something that digital can only dream about.<\/p>\n<p>In this article, we\u2019ll explain how vinyl works and why compression is bad while dynamic range is good, ultimately answering the question,\u00a0<strong>does vinyl sound better?<\/strong> So if you\u2019re looking to join the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.av.com\/hifi\/turntables\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">turntable<\/a><\/strong> revival or want to know a little more about why it entices you the way it does, keep reading.<\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_button button_url=&#8221;https:\/\/www.av.com\/hifi\/turntables&#8221; url_new_window=&#8221;on&#8221; button_text=&#8221;SHOP TURNTABLES&#8221; button_alignment=&#8221;center&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.18.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; custom_button=&#8221;on&#8221; button_text_size=&#8221;14px&#8221; button_text_color=&#8221;#FFFFFF&#8221; button_bg_color=&#8221;#0e95cf&#8221; button_border_width=&#8221;0px&#8221; button_border_color=&#8221;#0e95cf&#8221; button_font=&#8221;Arial|700|||||||&#8221; button_icon=&#8221;&#x35;||divi||400&#8243; button_icon_color=&#8221;#FFFFFF&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;10px|30px|10px|30px|false|false&#8221; box_shadow_style=&#8221;preset6&#8243; box_shadow_blur=&#8221;2px&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][\/et_pb_button][et_pb_text admin_label=&#8221;What is vinyl and how does it work?&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.18.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;20px||||false|false&#8221; border_width_top=&#8221;2px&#8221; border_color_top=&#8221;gcid-45928375-1fd3-4d7e-b1f0-0adee316b54f&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{%22gcid-45928375-1fd3-4d7e-b1f0-0adee316b54f%22:%91%22border_color_top%22%93}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_vinyl_and_how_does_it_work\"><\/span>What is vinyl and how does it work?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>So, what makes vinyl so inviting and why do we gravitate towards it compared to digital mediums like CD and MP3 or other lossless streaming? Let&#8217;s first look at how vinyl records are created.<\/p>\n<p>Many vinyl records are produced from the \u201cmaster copy, &#8221; which is usually the final mastered recording.<\/p>\n<p>An A and B metal plate are created and applied to a press which squeezes the entire information from that master copy onto virgin vinyl where it is trimmed to size.<\/p>\n<p>This creates a nearly perfect replica, with thousands of microscopic bumps and ridges in a continuous groove from the beginning to the end of the record. This is where styluses like the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.av.com\/Hi-Fi\/Ortofon-2M-Bronze-Moving-Magnet-Cartridge\/48ZZ\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Ortofon 2M Bronze<\/a><\/strong> relay an audible image via micro-movements.<\/p>\n<p>These vibrations of the needle create a charge in millivolts along its pin-pole technology.<\/p>\n<p>Using a pre-amp for simplicity, something like the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.av.com\/Hi-Fi\/Pro-Ject-Phono-Box-MM\/492H\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Pro-Ject Audio Box MM\/MC phono stage<\/a><\/strong> then converts these millivolts to volts. At this higher voltage, your electronics can deliver the signal to your speakers, thus creating sound.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-32193 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.av.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Denon-turntable.jpg\" alt=\"Denon turntable\" width=\"1200\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.av.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Denon-turntable.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.av.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Denon-turntable-980x490.jpg 980w, https:\/\/www.av.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Denon-turntable-480x240.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1200px, 100vw\" \/><\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=&#8221;Does vinyl sound better than digital?&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.18.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;20px||||false|false&#8221; border_width_top=&#8221;2px&#8221; border_color_top=&#8221;gcid-45928375-1fd3-4d7e-b1f0-0adee316b54f&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{%22gcid-45928375-1fd3-4d7e-b1f0-0adee316b54f%22:%91%22border_color_top%22%93}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Does_vinyl_sound_better_than_digital\"><\/span>Does vinyl sound better than digital?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-32192 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/www.av.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Audio-technica-turntable-300x300.jpg\" alt=\"Audio-technica turntable\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" \/>Many of us have experienced the tell-tell sound signatures of a newly pressed virgin vinyl record, something that can be easily described as &#8220;warm&#8221;.<\/p>\n<p>Interestingly, even when using the same mixes from identical masters at around 96kHz\/24Bit, digital and analogue still have differences. At true high-resolution levels, the information in digital is identical to analogue.<\/p>\n<p>The only difference lies in the interaction of the needle and the bumps and ridges on the record, which gives analogue its unique and warmer character.<\/p>\n<p>This simple key point is derived from an imperfect mechanical movement. It cannot be replicated through digital mediums without being artificially re-mastered.<\/p>\n<p>When we compare MP3 and CD, we can see that MP3 contains only half the information of a CD with a 44kHz\/16bit resolution. This difference in quality becomes more apparent when we consider that the humble vinyl record has a natural ability to produce sounds at a range of frequencies.<\/p>\n<p>To achieve a similar level of quality in digital format, we need to use a resolution of 96kHz\/24Bit.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Compression\"><\/span>Compression<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Unlike vinyl, digital formats are compressed. This can be in the form of data compression or dynamic range compression. The latter means that the audio levels of a track are mostly the same, so the listener doesn&#8217;t have to constantly turn the volume up or down.<\/p>\n<p>Does compression really matter? If you\u2019re out and about listening to your music through headphones, I have to say no! The typical noise outside is about 70\/80dB, so you\u2019re always going to be losing information. At home in a quiet environment, the noise around you will be about 25\/30dB, meaning the interference is far less and any compression will be noticeable.<\/p>\n<p>MP3 can lose up to 10 times the information found on a CD. This is where vinyl really shines as with it, you can listen to your music in all its glory.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequency_response_and_distortion\"><\/span>Frequency response and distortion<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-32194 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/www.av.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Lenco-turntable-300x300.jpg\" alt=\"Lenco turntable\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" \/>The human ear can typically hear a frequency response of 20Hz &#8211; 20kH; all digital media works to this standard.<\/p>\n<p>Vinyl records, on the other hand, can exceed our hearing levels to hit ridiculous levels from 7Hz to 50kHz. This allows us to truly feel the music &#8211; not just hear it! However, it can be uncomfortable to listen to at times.<\/p>\n<p>If frequencies are as low as 7Hz, the stylus can actually bounce, causing the record the skip. Luckily, most vinyl records don\u2019t exceed 18Hz, making them more expansive than digital recordings whilst maintaining a low distortion point.<\/p>\n<p>Distortions can result from various factors such as static build-up or dirt blocking information. Your room, the bearings, and even the tone arm on the record player can all create unwanted distortion.\u00a0 At worst, something called clipping can happen which isn\u2019t good for your speakers and electronics.<\/p>\n<p>Without a good frequency response and high distortion, vocalists blend without much harmony. Things like double-dip bass beats become a sluggish thud and the gap between the instruments becomes less significant, narrower, and less focused.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Dynamic_range\"><\/span>Dynamic range<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>This is a topic that is widely discussed and debated. If you&#8217;re not familiar with what a low dynamic range is, consider the album <em>Death Magnetic<\/em> by Metallica. This album reached lows of just DR3 which caused a major uproar back in 1991.<\/p>\n<p>Dynamic range (DR) is the measurement of the dynamic spectrum of audio. Many modern CD and digital streaming mediums are around 5 to 6 on the DR spectrum, while music from the 1980s was around 10 or 11.<\/p>\n<p>Having a higher dynamic range means that the volume is louder, but it doesn&#8217;t always mean better quality.<\/p>\n<p>Nowadays, CDs usually have a dynamic range of around 5-7 DR, but good recordings on CDs hit 16 and above. On the other hand, when it comes to vinyl, a dynamic range of 16 or more is more common than not.<\/p>\n<p>Let&#8217;s break this down. At 55-60dB and with a dynamic range of 11, you\u2019ll be using more watts, allowing your speakers to reveal more information before it becomes too loud to enjoy.<\/p>\n<p><em>Good to know: Reducing the dynamic range for digital media has helped create a volume level that protects your hearing when wearing headphones.<\/em><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Mechanical_noise\"><\/span>Mechanical noise<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-30987 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/www.av.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Audio-Technica-AT-LPW40WN-Manual-Belt-Drive-Turntable-Wood-Based-300x300.jpg\" alt=\"Audio Technica belt-drive turntable\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" \/>One of the main downfalls of vinyl is the record player&#8217;s mechanical noise. The stylus, working at millivolts level, can pick up information from the turntable&#8217;s own motor, arm, and other electronics in the room.<\/p>\n<p>However, all music streaming services have some trade-offs. While streaming offers a vast library of music, it comes with lower sound quality, and sometimes it can be overwhelming to choose what to listen to.<\/p>\n<p>CDs have a similar level of durability and performance to vinyl records, although they tend to produce louder sound.<\/p>\n<p>To match the 55\/60dB volume levels of vinyl records, you may have to lower the volume level of your integrated stereo amplifier as the sound produced by CDs can be sharper in comparison.<\/p>\n<p>Vinyl ticks the boxes for compression (or lack thereof), frequency response, and dynamic range &#8211; plus, there&#8217;s the interaction it brings, even when it comes to <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.av.com\/Accessories\/AVCOM-Velvet-Record-Cleaning-Set\/5T5A\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">cleaning your turntable<\/a><\/strong>. A bit of mechanical noise is all part of the listening experience!<\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_button button_url=&#8221;https:\/\/www.av.com\/cleaning-accessories&#8221; url_new_window=&#8221;on&#8221; button_text=&#8221;SHOP CLEANING ACCESSORIES&#8221; button_alignment=&#8221;center&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.18.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; custom_button=&#8221;on&#8221; button_text_size=&#8221;14px&#8221; button_text_color=&#8221;#FFFFFF&#8221; button_bg_color=&#8221;#0e95cf&#8221; button_border_width=&#8221;0px&#8221; button_border_color=&#8221;#0e95cf&#8221; button_font=&#8221;Arial|700|||||||&#8221; button_icon=&#8221;&#x35;||divi||400&#8243; button_icon_color=&#8221;#FFFFFF&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;10px|30px|10px|30px|false|false&#8221; box_shadow_style=&#8221;preset6&#8243; box_shadow_blur=&#8221;2px&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][\/et_pb_button][et_pb_text admin_label=&#8221;Other benefits of listening to vinyl&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.18.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;20px||||false|false&#8221; border_width_top=&#8221;2px&#8221; border_color_top=&#8221;gcid-45928375-1fd3-4d7e-b1f0-0adee316b54f&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{%22gcid-45928375-1fd3-4d7e-b1f0-0adee316b54f%22:%91%22border_color_top%22%93}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Other_benefits_of_listening_to_vinyl\"><\/span>Other benefits of listening to vinyl<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Aside from the sound quality benefits, listening to vinyl encourages you to experience a full album. Today&#8217;s culture of streaming services makes it incredibly easy to click and play any song you like, and in doing so, you might lose the sense of the whole album and the art behind it.<\/p>\n<p>It&#8217;s important to remember that many of the best songs weren&#8217;t released as singles! And we can only experience these songs by coming across them as we listen to an album from start to finish.<\/p>\n<p>As I&#8217;ve previously touched on, vinyl also offers a tangible experience. Not only do you go through the process of taking the record out of the sleeve, putting it on the turntable, and setting the needle, but you also get to see the record&#8217;s artwork properly &#8211; just how the artist intended.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-32195 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.av.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/White-Technics-turntable.jpg\" alt=\"White Technics turntable\" width=\"1330\" height=\"665\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.av.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/White-Technics-turntable.jpg 1330w, https:\/\/www.av.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/White-Technics-turntable-1280x640.jpg 1280w, https:\/\/www.av.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/White-Technics-turntable-980x490.jpg 980w, https:\/\/www.av.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/White-Technics-turntable-480x240.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) and (max-width: 1280px) 1280px, (min-width: 1281px) 1330px, 100vw\" \/><\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=&#8221;FAQs&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.18.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;20px||||false|false&#8221; border_width_top=&#8221;2px&#8221; border_color_top=&#8221;gcid-45928375-1fd3-4d7e-b1f0-0adee316b54f&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{%22gcid-45928375-1fd3-4d7e-b1f0-0adee316b54f%22:%91%22border_color_top%22%93}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"FAQs\"><\/span>FAQs<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Does_vinyl_offer_better_sound_quality\"><\/span>Does vinyl offer better sound quality?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Due to the expansive musical range pressed on the album, vinyl offers better sound quality than digital formats. Dynamic range, frequency range, and compression levels all contribute to a track&#8217;s sound, and vinyl wins on all fronts here.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_CDs_sound_better_than_vinyl\"><\/span>Can CDs sound better than vinyl?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>CDs can sound better than vinyl if you&#8217;re comparing them to old, bad-quality vinyl. In reality, you can get bad presses of both, but vinyl will usually sound better as they bring a level of warmth that is more attuned to the human ear.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Do_vinyl_players_affect_the_sound_quality\"><\/span>Do vinyl players affect the sound quality?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Vinyl players can affect the sound quality. Take the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.av.com\/Hi-Fi\/Pro-Ject-E1-Turntable-Black-with-AT3600L-Cartridge\/71QX\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Pro-Ject E1<\/a><\/strong> and the <strong><a class=\"ProsemirrorEditor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.av.com\/Hi-Fi\/Pro-Ject-Debut-Carbon-Evo-Turntable-Satin-Black\/4HHP\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Debut Carbon EVO<\/a><\/strong>, for example. Both are entry-level turntables, but they produce completely different sound signatures, with the Debut Carbon EVO bringing dramatic distinctions in sound.<\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=&#8221;Final thoughts&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.18.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;20px||||false|false&#8221; border_width_top=&#8221;2px&#8221; border_color_top=&#8221;gcid-45928375-1fd3-4d7e-b1f0-0adee316b54f&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{%22gcid-45928375-1fd3-4d7e-b1f0-0adee316b54f%22:%91%22border_color_top%22%93}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Final_thoughts\"><\/span>Final thoughts<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>I own a lot of digital music and a good selection of vinyl, too. To settle our vinyl vs. digital debate, I decided to put\u00a0the album <em>808 STATE EX:CL <\/em>to the test. I have the album on vinyl, the 180g LP twin vinyl version, the CDs (16-bit\/44.1kHz), and the streaming version.<\/p>\n<p>The most noticeable differences were the dynamic range and the warmth of sound. On vinyl, the width of the soundstage seemed to expand far beyond the CD or streaming capabilities. There were also far more delicate sounds within the vinyl records, with the 180g press having a little more accuracy on its notes while sounding rounded and absent of the harshness I heard from a digital reproduction.<\/p>\n<p>The streaming version was very respectable indeed and much closer to the CD than I thought it would be (this could be down to the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.av.com\/Hi-Fi\/TEAC-UD-505-X-USB-DAC-Preamplifier-V2-Black\/51T1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">TEAC UD-505 DAC<\/a><\/strong> being used).<\/p>\n<p>So, I hope I&#8217;ve given you an answer to your question, <strong>does vinyl sound better?\u00a0<\/strong>There&#8217;s a lot to consider but, ultimately, I&#8217;d have to say yes, vinyl does sound better!<\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=&#8221;1_2,1_2&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.18.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_column type=&#8221;1_2&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.18.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_button button_url=&#8221;https:\/\/www.av.com\/hifi\/turntables&#8221; url_new_window=&#8221;on&#8221; button_text=&#8221;SHOP TURNTABLES&#8221; button_alignment=&#8221;center&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.18.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; custom_button=&#8221;on&#8221; button_text_size=&#8221;14px&#8221; button_text_color=&#8221;#FFFFFF&#8221; button_bg_color=&#8221;#0e95cf&#8221; button_border_width=&#8221;0px&#8221; button_border_color=&#8221;#0e95cf&#8221; button_font=&#8221;Arial|700|||||||&#8221; button_icon=&#8221;&#x35;||divi||400&#8243; button_icon_color=&#8221;#FFFFFF&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;10px|30px|10px|30px|false|false&#8221; box_shadow_style=&#8221;preset6&#8243; box_shadow_blur=&#8221;2px&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=&#8221;1_2&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.18.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_button button_url=&#8221;https:\/\/www.av.com\/blog\/category\/hifi\/hifi-guides\/&#8221; url_new_window=&#8221;on&#8221; button_text=&#8221;READ MORE HIFI GUIDES&#8221; button_alignment=&#8221;center&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.18.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; custom_button=&#8221;on&#8221; button_text_size=&#8221;14px&#8221; button_text_color=&#8221;#FFFFFF&#8221; button_bg_color=&#8221;#0e95cf&#8221; button_border_width=&#8221;0px&#8221; button_border_color=&#8221;#0e95cf&#8221; button_font=&#8221;Arial|700|||||||&#8221; button_icon=&#8221;&#x35;||divi||400&#8243; button_icon_color=&#8221;#FFFFFF&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;10px|30px|10px|30px|false|false&#8221; box_shadow_style=&#8221;preset6&#8243; box_shadow_blur=&#8221;2px&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>In recent years, we&#8217;ve seen a huge resurgence in vinyl. But why do we enjoy these large flimsy pieces of pressed vinyl so much? Some of this is down to nostalgia. Some of it is down to the interaction you get with your music. But the main reason is vinyl&#8217;s musicality; many of us crave better sound quality after being served digital mediums like the ultra-compressed MP3 format.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":14,"featured_media":32191,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"<p>In recent years, we've seen a huge resurgence in vinyl. But why do we enjoy these large flimsy pieces of pressed vinyl so much?<\/p><p>Some of this is down to nostalgia. Some of it is down to the interaction you get with your music. But the main reason is vinyl's musicality; many of us crave better sound quality after being served digital mediums like the ultra-compressed MP3 format.<\/p><p>Many vinyl records take their information from the \u201cmaster copy\u201d. This copy is the purest format, allowing the full dynamic range to be heard. Digital formats, on the other hand, have an additional level of gain - and they're compressed, meaning they sound louder and thinner at the same time.<\/p><p>One thing we cannot argue is that these mediums all have their place. They've allowed us to enjoy more music than ever, and it\u2019s only getting better thanks to streaming devices like <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.av.com\/Hi-Fi\/WiiM-Pro-Plus-Audiophile-Grade-Multi-Room-Music-Streamer\/5X66\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">WiiM Pro Plus<\/a><\/strong> solutions.<\/p><p>However, if you own a turntable, you\u2019ll understand that nothing brings a level of musical enjoyment quite like it. Vinyl records offer something that digital can only dream about.<\/p><p>In this article, we\u2019ll explain how vinyl works and why compression is bad while dynamic range is good, ultimately answering the question,\u00a0<strong>does vinyl sound better?<\/strong> So if you\u2019re looking to join the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.av.com\/hifi\/turntables\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">turntable<\/a><\/strong> revival or want to know a little more about why it entices you the way it does, keep reading.<\/p><hr \/><h3>In a hurry?<\/h3><p>Without going into too much detail, here's what digital formats and vinyl have to offer:<\/p><p>[table id=45 \/]<\/p><hr \/><h3>What is vinyl and how does it work?<\/h3><p>So, what makes vinyl so inviting and why do we gravitate towards it compared to digital mediums like CD and MP3 or other lossless streaming? Let's first look at how vinyl records are created.<\/p><p>Many vinyl records are produced from the \u201cmaster copy, \" which is usually the final mastered recording.<\/p><p>An A and B metal plate are created and applied to a press. this squeezes the entire information from that master copy onto virgin vinyl where it is trimmed to size.<\/p><p>This creates a nearly perfect replica, with thousands of microscopic bumps and ridges in a continuous groove from the beginning to the end of the record. This is where styluses like the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.av.com\/Hi-Fi\/Ortofon-2M-Bronze-Moving-Magnet-Cartridge\/48ZZ\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Ortofon 2M Bronze<\/a><\/strong> relay an audible image via micro-movements.<\/p><p>These vibrations of the needle create a charge in millivolts along its pin-pole technology.<\/p><p>Using a pre-amp or for simplicity, something like the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.av.com\/Hi-Fi\/Pro-Ject-Phono-Box-MM\/492H\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Pro-Ject Audio Box MM\/MC phono stage<\/a><\/strong> then converts these millivolts to volts. At this higher voltage, your electronics can deliver the signal to your speakers, thus creating sound.<\/p><p><img class=\"aligncenter wp-image-32193 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.av.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Denon-turntable.jpg\" alt=\"Denon turntable\" width=\"1200\" height=\"600\" \/><\/p><hr \/><h3>Does vinyl sound better than digital?<\/h3><p><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-32192 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/www.av.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Audio-technica-turntable-300x300.jpg\" alt=\"Audio-technica turntable\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" \/>Many of us have experienced the tell-tell signatures sound of a newly pressed virgin vinyl record, something that can be easily described as \"warm\".<\/p><p>Interestingly, even when using the same mixes from identical masters at around 96kHz\/24Bit, digital and analogue still have differences. At true high-resolution levels, the information in digital is identical to analogue.<\/p><p>The only difference lies in the interaction of the needle and the bumps and ridges on the record, which gives analogue its unique and warmer character.<\/p><p>This simple key point is derived from an imperfect mechanical movement. It cannot be replicated through digital mediums without being artificially re-mastered.<\/p><p>When we compare MP3 and CD, we can see that MP3 contains only half the information of a CD with a 44kHz\/16bit resolution. This difference in quality becomes more apparent when we consider that the humble vinyl record has a natural ability to produce sounds at a range of frequencies.<\/p><p>To achieve a similar level of quality in digital format, we need to use a resolution of 96kHz\/24Bit.<\/p><hr \/><h4>Compression<\/h4><p>Unlike vinyl, digital formats are compressed. This can be in the form of data compression or dynamic range compression. The latter means that the audio levels of a track are mostly the same, so the listener doesn't have to constantly turn the volume up or down.<\/p><p>Does compression really matter? If you\u2019re out and about walking whilst listening to your music with headphones, I have to say no! The typical noise outside is about 70\/80dB, so, you\u2019re always going to be losing information. At home in a quiet environment, the noise around you will be about 25\/30dB, meaning the interference is far less and any compression will be noticeable.<\/p><p>MP3 can lose up to 10 times the information found on a CD. This is where vinyl really shines as there's no compression, you can listen to your music in all its glory.<\/p><hr \/><h4>Frequency response and distortion<\/h4><p><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-32194 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/www.av.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Lenco-turntable-300x300.jpg\" alt=\"Lenco turntable\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" \/>A human can typically hear a frequency response of 20Hz - 20kH; all digital media works to this simple standard.<\/p><p>Vinyl records, on the other hand, can exceed our hearing levels to hit ridiculous levels from 7Hz to 50kHz. This allows us to truly feel the music - not just hear it! However, it can be uncomfortable to listen to at times.<\/p><p>If frequencies are as low as 7Hz, the stylus can actually bounce, causing the record the skip. Luckily, most vinyl records don\u2019t exceed 18Hz, making them more expansive than digital recordings whilst maintaining a low distortion point.<\/p><p>Distortions can result from various factors such as static build-up or dirt blocking information. Your room, the bearings, and even the tone arm on the record player can all create unwanted distortion.\u00a0 At worst, something called clipping can happen which isn\u2019t good for your speakers and electronics<\/p><p>Without a good frequency response and high distortion, vocalists blend without much harmony. Things like double-dip bass beats become a sluggish thud and the gap between the instruments becomes less significant, narrower and less focused spoiling the soundstage.<\/p><hr \/><h4>Dynamic range<\/h4><p>This is a topic that is widely discussed and debated. If you are not familiar with what a low dynamic range is, then consider the album <em>Death Magnetic<\/em> by Metallica. This album reached the lows of just DR3 which caused a major uproar back in 1991.<\/p><p>Dynamic range (DR) is the measurement of the dynamic spectrum of audio. Many modern CD and digital streaming mediums are around 5 to 6 on the DR spectrum, while music from the 1980s was around 10 or 11.<\/p><p>Having a higher dynamic range means that the volume is louder, but it doesn't always mean better quality.<\/p><p>Nowadays, CDs usually have a dynamic range of around 5-7 DR, but good recordings on CDs hit 16 and above. On the other hand, when it comes to vinyl, a dynamic range of 16 or more is more common than not.<\/p><p>Let's break this down. At 55-60dB and with a dynamic range of 11, you\u2019ll be using more watts, allowing your speakers to reveal more information before it becomes too loud to enjoy.<\/p><p><em>Good to know: Reducing the dynamic range for digital media has helped create a volume level that protects your hearing when wearing headphones.<\/em><\/p><hr \/><h4>Mechanical noise<\/h4><p><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-30987 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/www.av.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Audio-Technica-AT-LPW40WN-Manual-Belt-Drive-Turntable-Wood-Based-300x300.jpg\" alt=\"Audio Technica belt-drive turntable\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" \/>One of the main downfalls of vinyl is the record player's mechanical noise. The stylus, working at millivolts level, can pick up information from the turntable's own motor, arm, and other electronics in the room.<\/p><p>However, all music streaming services have some trade-offs. While streaming offers a vast library of music, it comes with lower sound quality, and sometimes it can be overwhelming to choose what to listen to.<\/p><p>CDs have a similar level of durability and performance to vinyl records, although they tend to produce louder sound.<\/p><p>To match the 55\/60dB volume levels of vinyl records, you may have to lower the volume level of your integrated stereo amplifier as the sound produced by CDs can be sharper in comparison.<\/p><p>Vinyl ticks the boxes for compression (or lack thereof), frequency response, and dynamic range - plus, there's the interaction it brings, even when it comes to <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.av.com\/Accessories\/AVCOM-Velvet-Record-Cleaning-Set\/5T5A\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">cleaning your turntable<\/a><\/strong>. A bit of mechanical noise is all part of the listening experience!<\/p><hr \/><h3>Other benefits of listening to vinyl<\/h3><p>Aside from the sound quality benefits, listening to vinyl encourages you to experience a full album. Today's culture of streaming services makes it incredibly easy to click and play any song you like, and in doing so, you might lose the sense of the whole album and the art behind it.<\/p><p>It's important to remember that many of the best songs weren't released as singles! And we can only experience these songs by coming across them as we listen to an album from start to finish.<\/p><p>As I've previously touched on, vinyl also offers a tangible experience. Not only do you go through the process of taking the record out of the sleeve, putting it on the turntable, and setting the needle, but you also get to see the record's artwork properly - just how the artist intended.<\/p><p><img class=\"aligncenter wp-image-32195 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.av.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/White-Technics-turntable.jpg\" alt=\"White Technics turntable\" width=\"1330\" height=\"665\" \/><\/p><hr \/><h3>FAQs<\/h3><h4>Does vinyl offer better sound quality?<\/h4><p>Due to the expansive musical range pressed on the album, vinyl offers better sound quality than digital formats. Dynamic range, frequency range, and compression levels all contribute to a track's sound, and vinyl wins on all fronts here.<\/p><hr \/><h4>Can CDs sound better than vinyl?<\/h4><p>CDs can sound better than vinyl if you're comparing them to old, bad-quality vinyl. In reality, you can get bad presses of both, but vinyl will usually sound better as they bring a level of warmth that is more attuned to the human ear.<\/p><hr \/><h4>Do vinyl players affect the sound quality?<\/h4><p>Vinyl players can affect the sound quality. Take the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.av.com\/Hi-Fi\/Pro-Ject-E1-Turntable-Black\/4UZ1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Pro-Ject E1<\/a><\/strong> and the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.av.com\/Hi-Fi\/Pro-Ject-RPM-1-Carbon-Turntable-w--Ortofon-2M-Red-Cartridge-Black\/4B9O\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">RPM 1<\/a><\/strong>, for example. Both are entry-level turntables, but they produce completely different sound signatures, with the RPM bringing dramatic distinctions in sound.<\/p><hr \/><h3>Final thoughts<\/h3><p>I own a lot of digital music and a good selection of vinyl, too. To settle our vinyl vs. digital debate, I decided to put\u00a0the album <em>808 STATE EX:CL <\/em>to the test. I have the album on vinyl, the 180g LP twin vinyl version, the CDs (16-bit\/44.1kHz), and the streaming version.<\/p><p>The most noticeable differences were the dynamic range and the warmth of sound. On vinyl, the width of the soundstage seemed to expand far beyond the CD or streaming capabilities. There were also far more delicate sounds within the vinyl records, with the 180g press having a little more accuracy on its notes while sounding rounded and absent of the harshness I heard from a digital reproduction.<\/p><p>The streaming version was very respectable indeed and much closer to the CD than I thought it would be (this could be down to the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.av.com\/Hi-Fi\/TEAC-UD-505-X-USB-DAC-Preamplifier-V2-Black\/51T1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Teac UD-505 DAC<\/a><\/strong> being used).<\/p><p>So, I hope I've given you an answer to\u00a0<strong>does vinyl sound better?\u00a0<\/strong>There's a lot to consider but, ultimately, I'd have to say yes, vinyl does sound better!<\/p>","_et_gb_content_width":"","_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[60,139,6],"tags":[108,19,114],"class_list":["post-32164","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-hifi-guides","category-guides-2","category-hifi","tag-blog-category-guides-2","tag-hi-fi","tag-turntables"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.8 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Does Vinyl Sound Better? 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