Calculate playing time, groove length, and compare vinyl record formats.
If a record plays at the wrong speed, calculate the pitch shift.
| Format | Size | RPM | ~Per Side | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LP | 12" | 33 1/3 | 18-22 min | Albums |
| LP (45) | 12" | 45 | 12-15 min | Audiophile |
| EP | 10" | 33 1/3 | 12-15 min | EPs, compilations |
| Single | 7" | 45 | 4-5 min | Singles, jukebox |
| 78 | 10" | 78 | 3-4 min | Pre-1960 records |
Total length of the groove spiral on one side.
Higher RPM means the stylus moves faster along the groove, capturing more detail per second. 45 RPM 12" records are prized by audiophiles for superior high-frequency response and lower distortion, at the cost of shorter playing time. 33 1/3 RPM was the standard LP compromise between quality and duration. Inner grooves always sound slightly worse because the linear speed decreases toward the center.