33⅓
RPM
- Record Size: 12" (LP) or 10"
- Play Time: 20-25 min per side
- Common Use: Full albums
- Era: 1948 - Present
Most common speed for vinyl albums. If you have a standard 12" LP, this is almost certainly the correct speed.
What RPM Should I Play My Record At?
RPM (Revolutions Per Minute) determines how fast your turntable platter spins. Playing a record at the wrong speed will make it sound too fast or too slow. Use our quick reference guide below to find the correct speed for your vinyl.
Quick RPM Reference Chart
45
RPM
- Record Size: 7" (Single) or 12"
- Play Time: 4-5 min per side
- Common Use: Singles, EPs, audiophile pressings
- Era: 1949 - Present
Standard for 7" singles. Some 12" audiophile releases also use 45 RPM for better sound quality.
78
RPM
- Record Size: 10" or 12"
- Play Time: 3-5 min per side
- Common Use: Pre-1960 recordings
- Era: 1898 - 1960s
Vintage format requiring special stylus. These records are fragile shellac, not vinyl.
Record Size Quick Guide
| Record Size | Most Common RPM | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 12" (30 cm) | 33⅓ RPM | Standard LP album format |
| 12" (30 cm) | 45 RPM | Audiophile pressings, DJ singles |
| 10" (25 cm) | 33⅓ RPM | EP format, some albums |
| 10" (25 cm) | 78 RPM | Vintage shellac records |
| 7" (17.5 cm) | 45 RPM | Standard single format |
| 7" (17.5 cm) | 33⅓ RPM | EP or jukebox singles |
Common Playback Issues
Music Sounds Too Fast/High-Pitched
You're likely playing at 45 RPM when you should be at 33⅓. Switch to the slower speed.
Music Sounds Too Slow/Low-Pitched
You're probably playing at 33⅓ when the record needs 45 RPM. Try the faster speed.
Speed Seems Slightly Off
Your turntable belt may be worn or the motor may need calibration. Check your turntable's pitch adjustment if available.
No 78 RPM Option
Most modern turntables don't support 78 RPM. You'll need a turntable with 78 RPM capability and a special wide-groove stylus.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do different records use different speeds?
Higher RPM speeds provide better audio quality but less playing time per side. 33⅓ RPM was developed to fit more music on a single record, while 45 RPM offers superior sound quality for singles. 78 RPM was the original standard before the technology for slower speeds was developed.
How do I know what speed my record needs?
Check the record label or sleeve - it usually indicates the RPM. As a general rule: 12" albums are 33⅓, 7" singles are 45, and anything pre-1960 might be 78. When in doubt, start at 33⅓ for 12" records and 45 for 7" records.
Will playing at the wrong speed damage my record?
No, playing at the wrong speed won't damage your record or stylus. It will just sound wrong. Simply switch to the correct speed and play again.
What's the difference between 33 and 33⅓ RPM?
They're the same thing! The precise speed is 33⅓ (thirty-three and one-third), but it's often shortened to "33" in casual conversation.
Can I play 78 RPM records on a regular turntable?
Only if your turntable has a 78 RPM speed setting. Additionally, 78s require a special stylus with a wider tip (typically 3 mil vs 0.7 mil for modern records) because their grooves are wider.
Recommended Vinyl Gear
Quality equipment makes all the difference in your vinyl experience. Here are some products we recommend:
Audio-Technica AT-LP60X Turntable
Fully automatic belt-drive turntable with built-in phono preamp.
Boundless Audio Record Cleaning Kit
Complete vinyl cleaning solution with brush, cloth, and cleaning fluid.
Vinyl Record Storage Crate
Wooden crate holds up to 75 LP records in style.
Audio-Technica AT95E Phono Cartridge
Replacement cartridge for improved audio quality.
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