Top 41 Slang For Vinyl Records – Meaning & Usage

Vinyl records have made a comeback in recent years, attracting a new generation of music enthusiasts and collectors. But did you know that there’s a whole slang associated with these vintage treasures? From terms that describe the condition of the record to ones that capture the joy of hunting for rare gems, we’ve got you covered. So put on your favorite record and get ready to groove as we take you through the top slang for vinyl records that every music lover should know.

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1. Wax

This term is derived from the material used to make vinyl records, which is often referred to as “wax.” It is a common slang term used to describe vinyl records.

For example, a music enthusiast might say, “I love collecting wax and listening to the warm sound it produces.”
A DJ might ask, “Do you have any new wax I can spin at the club tonight?”
A vinyl collector might proudly display their collection and say, “Check out my wax library, it’s a treasure trove of music history.”

2. Platters

This term refers to the physical disc of a vinyl record, which resembles a flat plate or platter. It is a slang term commonly used to describe vinyl records.

For instance, a music lover might say, “I spent hours flipping through stacks of platters at the record store.”
A DJ might announce, “I’ll be spinning some classic platters tonight, so get ready to dance!”
A vinyl enthusiast might proudly display their collection and say, “These platters are my pride and joy, each one has a story to tell.”

3. Spinners

This term refers to the rotating platter on a turntable where vinyl records are placed and played. It is a slang term used to describe vinyl records in the context of DJing or playing music.

For example, a DJ might say, “I’ll be spinning some old school spinners at the party tonight.”
A music lover might ask, “Do you have any new spinners I can add to my collection?”
A vinyl enthusiast might show off their turntable setup and say, “Check out my spinners, they deliver the best sound quality for vinyl records.”

4. Black gold

This term is a metaphorical reference to the value and importance of vinyl records. It suggests that vinyl records are a precious and highly valued form of music.

For instance, a music enthusiast might say, “I consider my vinyl collection to be black gold, it’s priceless.”
A vinyl collector might proudly display their collection and say, “These black gold records are my most prized possessions.”
A DJ might announce, “I’ll be playing some black gold tonight, get ready for a musical journey you won’t forget.”

5. Grooves

This term refers to the spiral indentations on the surface of a vinyl record where the audio information is stored. It is a slang term commonly used to describe vinyl records.

For example, a music lover might say, “I love the deep grooves on vinyl records, they enhance the listening experience.”
A DJ might ask, “Do you have any grooves that will get the crowd moving?”
A vinyl enthusiast might show off their collection and say, “These grooves are where the magic happens, they bring the music to life.”

6. LPs

LPs, or long plays, are vinyl records that typically play at 33 1/3 revolutions per minute (RPM). They are larger in size compared to 45s and can hold more songs or longer tracks. LPs are commonly used to refer to full-length albums on vinyl.

For example, a music lover might say, “I love collecting LPs of my favorite bands.”
In a conversation about vinyl records, someone might ask, “Do you have any rare LPs in your collection?”
A record store owner might advertise, “We have a wide selection of new and used LPs for sale.”

7. 45s

45s, or 45 records, are vinyl records that typically play at 45 revolutions per minute (RPM). They are smaller in size compared to LPs and usually contain one song on each side. 45s are commonly used to refer to singles or individual tracks released on vinyl.

For instance, a music enthusiast might say, “I found some rare 45s at a flea market.”
In a discussion about vinyl collecting, someone might ask, “Do you prefer LPs or 45s?”
A DJ might announce, “Next up, we have a classic hit on a 45!”

8. Scratches

Scratches are marks or blemishes on a vinyl record that can affect the sound quality. They occur when the needle of a turntable comes into contact with the surface of the record, causing damage. “Scratches” is often used to refer to both minor and major imperfections on vinyl records.

For example, a vinyl enthusiast might say, “This record has some noticeable scratches, but it still plays fine.”
In a conversation about record care, someone might ask, “How do you prevent scratches on your vinyl?”
A record collector might mention, “I always inspect used records for scratches before buying them.”

9. Spins

“Spins” is a term used to describe playing a vinyl record on a turntable. It refers to the action of the record spinning while the needle reads the grooves and produces sound. “Spins” can also be used to indicate the number of times a song or album has been played.

For instance, a music lover might say, “I can’t wait to give this new record a spin on my turntable.”
In a discussion about vinyl experiences, someone might ask, “What was the first record you ever spun?”
A DJ might announce, “I’ll be spinning some classic tunes tonight at the club!”

10. Records

“Records” is a general term used to refer to vinyl records. It encompasses both LPs and 45s, as well as other sizes and formats of vinyl. “Records” can also be used as a verb to mean the act of recording music or capturing audio.

For example, a vinyl collector might say, “I have a large collection of records in various genres.”
In a conversation about music formats, someone might ask, “Do you prefer records or digital music?”
A musician might mention, “We’re heading to the studio to record some new tracks for our next album.”

11. Vinyls

“Vinyls” is a colloquial term used to refer to vinyl records, which are discs made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) that contain recorded music or other audio. The term “vinyls” is often used as a shorthand way of talking about vinyl records.

For example, a music enthusiast might say, “I love collecting vinyls. The sound quality is amazing.”
A person discussing their music collection might mention, “I have a stack of vinyls from the 70s and 80s.”
In a conversation about the resurgence of vinyl records, someone might comment, “More and more people are getting into vinyls again.”

12. Slabs

In slang terms, “slabs” refers to vinyl records, specifically full-length albums. The term “slabs” is often used to describe the physical appearance of vinyl records, which are flat and rectangular in shape.

For instance, a music lover might say, “I have a collection of slabs that spans multiple genres.”
A person discussing their favorite albums might exclaim, “These slabs are the soundtrack of my life!”
In a conversation about vinyl record artwork, someone might comment, “I love how the slabs have such beautiful cover designs.”

13. Wax discs

“Wax discs” is a slang term used to refer to vinyl records. The term “wax” comes from the historical process of making vinyl records, which involved using a master disc made of wax to create the molds for mass production.

For example, a vinyl enthusiast might say, “I recently acquired some rare wax discs from the 1950s.”
A person discussing the history of vinyl records might mention, “Back in the day, they used to press these records on wax discs.”
In a conversation about the sound quality of vinyl records, someone might comment, “There’s something special about the warmth of sound you get from these wax discs.”

14. Vinyl discs

The term “vinyl discs” is a straightforward way of referring to vinyl records. Vinyl records are discs made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) that contain recorded music or other audio. The term “vinyl discs” emphasizes the material and format of the records.

For instance, a music collector might say, “I have a large collection of vinyl discs in various genres.”
A person discussing the resurgence of vinyl records might comment, “More and more people are appreciating the unique sound of vinyl discs.”
In a conversation about the durability of vinyl records, someone might mention, “These vinyl discs can last for decades if properly cared for.”

15. Plates

In slang terms, “plates” is a term used to refer to vinyl records. This term originated from the physical appearance of vinyl records, which resemble flat and circular plates.

For example, a vinyl enthusiast might say, “I have a collection of plates from different eras of music.”
A person discussing their favorite records might exclaim, “These plates are pure gold!”
In a conversation about the nostalgia of vinyl records, someone might comment, “I love the crackling sound that comes from these plates.”

16. Albums

An album refers to a collection of songs or tracks released by an artist or band. It usually contains multiple songs and is released as a physical or digital format.

For example, “I just bought the latest album from my favorite artist.”
A music enthusiast might say, “Vinyl albums have a warmer and more authentic sound.”
A person reminiscing about their childhood might mention, “I used to spend hours listening to my parents’ old albums.”

17. Platters of sound

This slang term refers to vinyl records, which are circular discs that produce sound when played on a turntable. The term emphasizes the physical nature of vinyl records.

For instance, “I love the warm sound that comes from playing platters of sound.”
A music collector might say, “I have a vast collection of platters of sound.”
A person discussing the resurgence of vinyl might mention, “Many young people are rediscovering the joy of playing platters of sound.”

18. Wax cylinders

Wax cylinders were an early form of recording medium used before vinyl records. They were cylindrical in shape and made of wax, with grooves that captured sound.

For example, “Before vinyl records, wax cylinders were used to record and play music.”
A history buff might say, “Wax cylinders were a significant advancement in audio technology.”
A person interested in vintage music formats might mention, “I have a few wax cylinders in my collection.”

19. Shellacs

Shellacs were a type of hard resin records that were used before vinyl records. They were made by coating a disc with shellac, a resin derived from the secretions of the female lac bug.

For instance, “Shellacs were popular in the early 20th century before vinyl records became dominant.”
A collector of vintage records might say, “I have a few shellacs from the 1920s in my collection.”
A person discussing the evolution of music formats might mention, “Shellacs were the precursor to vinyl records.”

20. Spinning discs

This slang term refers to vinyl records, which are circular discs that spin or rotate when played on a turntable. The term emphasizes the physical action of playing a vinyl record.

For example, “I love the nostalgia of spinning discs on my record player.”
A music enthusiast might say, “There’s something magical about the sound of spinning discs.”
A person describing their vinyl collection might mention, “I have a room filled with spinning discs.”

21. Vinyl albums

Refers to vinyl records that are in the form of a full-length album. LP stands for “long play” and typically refers to records that play at 33 1/3 revolutions per minute (RPM).

For example, a music enthusiast might say, “I love collecting vinyl albums because of the warm sound they produce.”
A person discussing their vinyl collection might mention, “I have over 100 LPs in my collection.”
A record store owner might advertise, “We have a wide selection of vinyl albums in stock.”

22. Wax records

This is an old-fashioned term for vinyl records. It refers to the material used to make the records, which was often a type of wax compound.

For instance, an older person might reminisce, “Back in my day, we used to listen to our favorite music on wax records.”
A music historian might discuss, “Wax records were the dominant format for recorded music until the rise of digital media.”
A vinyl collector might proudly display their collection of wax records.

23. Vinyl grooves

Refers to the indentations or “grooves” on a vinyl record that contain the audio information. These grooves are read by a stylus or needle to produce sound.

For example, a DJ might say, “I love the sound of vinyl grooves because they add warmth and depth to the music.”
A vinyl enthusiast might comment, “You can often tell the quality of a record by examining the condition of its grooves.”
A person discussing vinyl records might explain, “The grooves on a vinyl record are what differentiate it from other formats like CDs or digital files.”

24. Vinyl platters

A playful term for vinyl records, comparing them to round serving platters. This term emphasizes the physical shape and size of vinyl records.

For instance, a DJ might say, “I’m bringing out the vinyl platters for tonight’s party.”
A person discussing their vinyl collection might say, “I have a stack of vinyl platters waiting to be played.”
A music lover might comment, “There’s something nostalgic about putting a vinyl platter on the turntable and hearing that crackle before the music starts.”

25. Vinyl spins

Refers to the act of playing vinyl records on a turntable. This term emphasizes the physical motion of the record spinning as it plays.

For example, a DJ might announce, “I’ll be spinning vinyl records all night long at the club.”
A person discussing their love for vinyl might say, “There’s nothing quite like the experience of spinning a record and hearing the music come to life.”
A vinyl enthusiast might comment, “I spend hours every week spinning my favorite records and discovering new music.”

26. Vinyl tunes

This term refers to the songs that are recorded and played on vinyl records. It emphasizes the unique and nostalgic experience of listening to music on vinyl.

For example, “I love the warm sound of vinyl tunes.”
A music enthusiast might say, “I spend hours digging through record stores to find the best vinyl tunes.”
A collector might proudly display their vinyl collection and say, “These vinyl tunes are my prized possessions.”

27. Vinyl gems

This term is used to describe vinyl records that are considered rare and valuable. It highlights the idea that these records are like precious gems or treasures.

For instance, “I found some real vinyl gems at a flea market.”
A collector might say, “I’m always on the lookout for vinyl gems to add to my collection.”
A person might show off their rare vinyl record and say, “This vinyl gem is worth a fortune.”

28. Vinyl classics

This term refers to vinyl records that are considered timeless and iconic. It emphasizes the enduring popularity and significance of these records.

For example, “The Beatles’ albums are true vinyl classics.”
A music lover might say, “I can’t resist listening to vinyl classics from the 70s.”
A person might reminisce, “Vinyl classics bring back so many memories of my youth.”

29. Vinyl treasures

This term is used to describe vinyl records that are highly valued and cherished by collectors and enthusiasts. It conveys the idea that these records are like precious treasures.

For instance, “I found some hidden vinyl treasures in my grandparents’ attic.”
A collector might say, “These vinyl treasures are the crown jewels of my collection.”
A person might proudly display their vinyl records and say, “These vinyl treasures are my pride and joy.”

30. Vinyl artifacts

This term refers to vinyl records that are considered historical and cultural artifacts. It highlights the significance of these records in preserving music history and cultural heritage.

For example, “Vinyl artifacts from the 1960s capture the spirit of the era.”
A music historian might say, “Studying vinyl artifacts provides valuable insights into the evolution of music.”
A person might showcase their vinyl collection and say, “These vinyl artifacts are a testament to the rich musical heritage of our past.”

31. Vinyl relics

This term refers to vinyl records that are considered old or vintage. They are often seen as valuable or nostalgic.

For example, a music lover might say, “I love collecting vinyl relics from the 1960s.”
A person reminiscing about their childhood might say, “I found some vinyl relics in my parents’ attic and it brought back so many memories.”
A collector might proudly display their vinyl relics and say, “These are some of my most prized possessions.”

32. Vinyl rarities

This term is used to describe vinyl records that are difficult to find or are considered valuable due to their limited availability.

For instance, a record store owner might say, “We have a section dedicated to vinyl rarities for serious collectors.”
A music fan might say, “I spent hours searching for vinyl rarities at flea markets and garage sales.”
A collector might proudly show off their vinyl rarities and say, “I managed to find some really rare vinyl records at a record fair.”

33. Vinyl collectibles

This term refers to vinyl records that are highly sought after by collectors due to their uniqueness, rarity, or historical significance.

For example, a collector might say, “I have a whole shelf dedicated to vinyl collectibles, including limited edition releases.”
A music enthusiast might say, “Vinyl collectibles are not just about the music, they are also pieces of art.”
A person discussing their vinyl collection might say, “I love hunting for vinyl collectibles to add to my ever-growing collection.”

34. Vinyl finds

This term is used to describe vinyl records that have been recently discovered or acquired by a collector.

For instance, a person might say, “I went to a yard sale and made some amazing vinyl finds.”
A music lover might say, “I love the thrill of finding vinyl finds in unexpected places.”
A collector might proudly display their recent vinyl finds and say, “Check out these incredible vinyl records I found at a thrift store.”

35. Vinyl goodies

This term is used to describe vinyl records that are considered delightful or enjoyable to listen to.

For example, a music enthusiast might say, “I’ve been listening to some vinyl goodies from my favorite artists.”
A person sharing their vinyl collection might say, “Here are some vinyl goodies that always put me in a good mood.”
A collector might say, “I’ve been adding some new vinyl goodies to my collection, and they sound amazing on my turntable.”

36. Vinyl wonders

Vinyl wonders refers to vinyl records that are considered exceptional or extraordinary in terms of their quality, rarity, or overall appeal.

For example, “I found a few vinyl wonders at the record store today.”
A collector might say, “My vinyl wonders collection includes some rare and valuable records.”
A music enthusiast might exclaim, “The sound quality of these vinyl wonders is unmatched!”

37. Vinyl masterpieces

Vinyl masterpieces are vinyl records that are considered outstanding or exceptional in terms of their artistic value, musical quality, or overall significance.

For instance, “This album is definitely one of the vinyl masterpieces of its time.”
A music critic might describe a record as “a true vinyl masterpiece that showcases the artist’s talent.”
A collector might proudly display their vinyl masterpieces and say, “These records are the crown jewels of my collection.”

38. Vinyl beauties

Vinyl beauties refers to vinyl records that are considered beautiful or visually appealing, often due to their artwork, design, or overall aesthetic.

For example, “I love the vibrant colors on these vinyl beauties.”
A collector might say, “The album covers of these vinyl beauties are true works of art.”
A music lover might admire their vinyl beauties and say, “These records not only sound great but also look stunning on my shelf.”

39. Vinyl marvels

Vinyl marvels are vinyl records that are considered marvelous or extraordinary in some way, whether it be their sound quality, historical significance, or overall impact on the music industry.

For instance, “These vinyl marvels are a testament to the golden age of music.”
A music historian might discuss vinyl marvels and say, “These records played a pivotal role in shaping the music landscape.”
A fan of a particular artist might exclaim, “This album is a true vinyl marvel that captures the essence of their music.”

40. Vinyl delights

Vinyl delights are vinyl records that are considered delightful or enjoyable to listen to, often due to their catchy tunes, nostalgic appeal, or overall feel-good vibes.

For example, “These vinyl delights always put me in a good mood.”
A music lover might say, “Listening to these vinyl delights takes me back to a simpler time.”
A fan of a specific genre might describe their vinyl delights as “the ultimate soundtrack to my life.”

41. Spinning wax

This term refers to the act of playing vinyl records on a turntable. It emphasizes the physical aspect of handling and manipulating the records.

For example, a DJ might say, “I’ll be spinning wax at the club tonight.”
A vinyl enthusiast might post, “Just spent the evening spinning wax and enjoying the warm sound.”
In a conversation about music preferences, someone might ask, “Do you prefer spinning wax or streaming music?”