Vinyl records are still beloved by audiophiles around the world despite the fact that they contain potentially toxic materials. But why do records keep being made this way? Do we have to worry about things like lead and plasticizers potentially harming our health when we love music on vinyl?
Are vinyl records toxic?
Many vinyl record enthusiasts have long argued that the experience of listening to albums on physical records can’t be matched by digital alternatives, both for sound quality and nostalgia.
But recently, another question has been raised – are vinyl records a threat to your health? In recent times, studies have discussed vinyl’s plastic components containing metals such as cadmium and lead, as well as phthalates which can potentially be harmful if ingested.
Despite these claims, experts in the industry regard vinyl records as a safe form of media. Vinyl is rarely ingested or touched frequently enough to impact health in any meaningful way.
For those who want peace of mind though, purchasing new records is an easy solution to avoiding any potential risks associated with vintage media.
Why are vinyl records still being made?
In recent years, the resurgence of vinyl records has been an absolute sensation. After almost being phased out of existence in the late 80s and early 90s, vinyl records have made an incredible comeback and are now widely available.
On the surface it may seem counterintuitive – why continues to carry such a niche product? Well, simply put because they still offer what no other format can: superior sound quality, undisputable emotional resonance, and a physical record of your favorite music.
Furthermore, not only do vinyl collectors treasure the physical record of their favorite music but now it’s become a form of art with many vibrant colored discs and stylized artwork.
It’s clear that vinyl is here to stay despite digital trends – and these groovy records will undoubtedly remain cherished pieces by audiophiles and fans alike for many years to come.
What toxic chemicals are in vinyl records?
Vinyl records have been a favorite of music lovers for decades, but today’s environmentalists need to be aware that this form of physical media isn’t necessarily eco-friendly.
Many vinyl records are filled with hazardous chemicals, including toluene diisocyanate (TDI), phthalates, and vinyl chloride monomer (VCM). TDI can cause respiratory problems; phthalates can disrupt hormones, and VCM is a known carcinogen. It’s safer for music fans to listen to their favorite albums online than on vinyl, at least from an environmental standpoint.
However, if you are determined to listen on vinyl it is important to take the necessary precautions by wearing gloves while handling the record and investing in eco-friendly labels when appropriate.
What are vinyl records made of now?
Vinyl records have been around since the late 1800s, and while their popularity has waxed and waned over the decades, they are still a favorite among audiophiles. Today’s vinyl records are made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC).
This material is non-toxic, strong, and durable – all qualities that make it an ideal choice for popular pressings like 7″ singles, 12″ albums, and even double albums! While the technology for producing vinyl records has changed since its inception, PVC remains the go-to material for producers who want to create high-quality recordings with superior sound quality.
Are vinyl records still made the same way?
Vinyl records have come a long way since their 19th-century origins. While the basics of record production remain the same – pressing vinyl discs with embedded music grooves – a lot has changed over the years.
Many modern advancements in technology have impacted record production, particularly when it comes to the sound quality and durability of records.
From improved cutting and mastering techniques to specialized vinyl formulas and run-out grooves designed to stop play at a certain point, today’s records are made with greater precision than ever before. And as a result, they offer a much more authentic and faithful reproduction of sound than they used to.
What happens to vinyl records over time?
Without proper care, vinyl records can be vulnerable to damage over time. Heat and humidity are particularly damaging, making the record brittle like glass which might lead to it breaking apart into tiny pieces.
Frequent playing on an inappropriate turntable can also cause irrevocable damage like scratch marks or a warped shape. It’s important to look after your vinyl records well – make sure they are stored in dry and temperature-controlled environments, keep them away from sunlight, dust them regularly, clean them with special solutions, and equip your turntables with good needles so that you don’t damage your collection over time.
Conclusion
Vinyl record production is, without a doubt, a problematic and dated approach. However, vinyl remains one of the most popular choices for sound reproduction because of its longevity, sound quality, and its relative affordability compared to some other media formats. It may not be the safest medium for music listening, but its positives far outweigh the negatives.
