What is the phonograph?

The phonograph, also known as a record player or turntable, is a device used for playing recorded sound. It was invented by Thomas Edison in 1877 and it revolutionized the way music was enjoyed at home.

The phonograph consists of a rotating turntable, a tonearm, a cartridge with a stylus, and a speaker. A record is placed on the turntable and as it rotates, the stylus on the cartridge is dragged through the grooves of the record, producing sound vibrations that are converted to electrical signals. These signals are then amplified and played through the speaker.

Phonographs were popular throughout the 20th century and were the primary way people listened to music until the advent of cassette tapes, CDs, and digital music. Despite the advancements in technology, many people still enjoy the warm, authentic sound of a phonograph and collect vinyl records today.