12-inch single facts for kids
The 12-inch single (often called a "12") is a special kind of gramophone record. It's bigger than other records and has a wider groove. This wider groove helps the music sound much clearer and louder. These records are very popular in disco and dance music because DJs use them a lot in clubs and parties. They are usually played at a speed of 45 revolutions per minute (RPM), which also helps make the sound quality even better.
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What Makes a 12-Inch Single Special?
A 12-inch single gets its name from its size – it's about 12 inches (or 30 centimeters) across. But its most important feature is its wider groove. Think of a record's groove like a tiny path that the record player's needle follows. On a 12-inch single, this path is wider than on smaller records. This extra space means the sound information can be spread out more, which helps prevent distortion and makes the music sound clearer and more powerful.
Why Do DJs Love 12-Inch Singles?
DJs, who play music at parties and clubs, really like 12-inch singles. Here's why:
- Better Sound: The improved sound quality is perfect for loud club systems.
- Longer Songs: While called a "single," these records often have longer versions of songs, sometimes called "extended mixes." This gives DJs more time to mix songs together smoothly.
- Durability: They are generally more robust than smaller records, which is good for DJs who handle them often.
- Special Tracks: Sometimes, 12-inch singles include special versions of songs or tracks that aren't available anywhere else.
The Speed of Sound: 45 RPM
Most 12-inch singles are played at 45 RPM. RPM stands for "revolutions per minute," which is how many times the record spins around in one minute. Playing a record at 45 RPM instead of a slower speed like 33 RPM means the needle reads the groove faster. This faster speed allows for even better sound quality, especially for music with strong beats like dance and disco. It helps the bass sound deeper and the highs sound crisper.
Images for kids
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A twelve-inch gramophone record
See also
In Spanish: Doce pulgadas para niños
