Vinyl phonodiscs are microgrooved recordings on vinyl disc. They date from 1948 to the present, and range in size from 7″ to 12″ in diameter. Vinyl is mostly found in commercial releases, and discs are stamped rather than etched, although limited-run vinyl (and acetate/lacquer) etched dubplates were used for years for band demos and by reggae and disco artists looking to get their music to the dance floor immediately. These can have considerable value as they are unique.
Notes/Considerations
Vinyl phonodiscs resist breaking because they can flex. While the surface of vinyl discs are subject to scratching and, if subjected even to too much time in a sunny window, will warp, vinyl phonodiscs do not typically suffer from degradation due to their formulations, and are much hardier than lacquer or shellac phonodiscs. Vinyl phonodiscs should be stored upright without excessive leaning in the box (there should only be a finger’s width of space, enough to make out the ID label when flipping through the discs). 12-inch discs will require specialty boxes. ID labels should be placed on the upper corner of the face of the disc jacket. Store in room temperature or cool storage (do not freeze).
At-Minimum Housing
If the discs can stand in their original box, that box can be used. Ensure discs are standing up without leaning. Generally, vinyl and paper can cohabit without issues. Label the box THIS END UP to prevent them being shelved on their side.
Typical Housing
House discs vertically in specialty boxes without leaning. Label THIS END UP to prevent them being shelved on their side.
High-End Housing
Use archival sleeves for discs and house next to disc jackets. House discs vertically in specialty boxes without leaning. Label the box THIS END UP to prevent them being shelved on their side.
