Heavier-weight vinyl (180 grams vs standard ~120–140g) that offers more durability and is often marketed as “audiophile quality.” Doesn’t automatically mean better sound, but often paired with high-quality pressings.

Refers to the speed a record spins on the turntable:

• 33 RPM is standard for most LPs (full-length albums)
  
• 45 RPM is typical for singles and some EPs

Some audiophile pressings use 45 RPM for better sound quality, even on 12" records.

The diameter of a vinyl record:

• 7" - Usually singles or short EPs (1–2 songs per side)
  
• 10" - A niche format often used for special releases
  
• 12" - The standard size for full-length albums, maxi-singles, and extended EPs
  

The secondary track on a vinyl single, traditionally on the reverse side of the main (A-side) song. Sometimes features exclusive or non-album tracks.

An unauthorized recording or release, often of a live performance or unreleased material. Sound quality and legality vary greatly.

A mastering process where the lacquer is cut directly onto a copper disc, reducing some distortion and sibilance common in traditional lacquer cuts.

A style of record jacket that opens like a book. Often used for double LPs or to include extra artwork and liner notes.

A mastering technique where the source and cutting lathe run at half speed. This allows more precise cutting of high frequencies and transients, resulting in improved clarity.

The etched or stamped alphanumeric codes found in the dead wax area of a record. These can indicate pressing plant, mastering engineer, or version.

Short for monaural sound, where audio is mixed into a single channel. Common on pre-1970s records and some modern reissues.

A paper strip wrapped around the spine of Japanese records, often with info in Japanese. Collectible and aesthetically iconic.

Vinyl records with images printed on them. Often more visually striking than audiophile in quality. Typically used for collectibles or special editions.

A release of an older album that’s been pressed again, sometimes with updated artwork, remastering, or packaging.

A semi-annual event celebrating independent record stores with limited, exclusive, or first-time vinyl releases. Many titles are highly collectible and produced in small quantities.

These terms refer to how much music is on a release:

• Single - 1 to 2 tracks, usually on a 7" or digital format
  
• EP – 3 to 5 tracks; longer than a single, shorter than an album
  
• LP – A full album, typically 8+ tracks and pressed on 12" vinyl

Colored or patterned vinyl pressings. Purely cosmetic but often collectible. Sound quality may vary slightly from black vinyl depending on the pressing plant.

A very limited pressing (often 5–25 copies) used to check quality before a full run. Highly collectible.

A premium style of jacket where the artwork is printed on paper and glued to a heavier cardboard shell. Common in vintage pressings and high-end reissues.