How Films Contributed To The Undying Fame Of Vinyl Record Players

The way we listen to and play songs is constantly changing. From bulky speakers to the sleekest gadgets, the evolution keeps on coming. However, although these trends may come and go, classics have proven to stand the test of time. Recently, young and old music enthusiasts have revisited a timeless means to play music. Despite their size and intricacy, Vinyl record players are now making a successful comeback into the music scene.

These beloved turntables owe their consistent popularity to another favorite form of media: movies. The world of cinema has undoubtedly been one of the most effective influences in maintaining the good old record players’ relevance. Here, we look at how films contributed to the undying fame of vinyl record players.

Effective Usage in Cinema

Vinyl record players have always been a staple in movies to represent the period the film was set in. Every scene it was in would instantly transport you to older, simpler times. Seeing the turntable on film would be such a nostalgic experience for those who grew up with one.

As the movie industry progressed, so did the way they utilized vinyl record players. In older films, they were simply props used sparingly, which is not the case in the movies we have now. However, today, some scenes revolve around the device, making it a crucial part of the film.

You can find one example in arguably one of the greatest movies of all time: The Shawshank Redemption. There is a scene where Andy Dufresne, the protagonist, plays Mozart’s Duettino-Sull’aria over the PA system in the warden’s office on a record player. Those who have seen the movie agree that this was pivotal to the story and symbolized a turning point.

Induces Intense Feelings

Aside from being an effective tool in portraying scenes, record players also invoke incredible emotions, nostalgia being a prominent one. So, after being transported to a different time, the viewer also senses what the characters are feeling.

A great example of how record players can induce intense feelings can is in Linklater’s Before Sunrise. The scene where the two leads spent what was illustrated as a few seconds listening to a vinyl record felt like an eternity. With the primary theme of the film being romance, that singular moment was more than effective in conveying the necessary emotions to immerse the audience.

Added TV Cameos

Vinyl record players are not just regulars on the big screen; they also appear on fan-favorite TV shows. House M.D, Suits, and Mad Men are just a few small screen titans that maximize on vintage turntables. The added exposure of these music devices in more accessible media helps engrain the use of these music players even more.

Ultimately, the use of vinyl record players in film encourages viewers to replicate the experience with their very own turntable. However, this is not a walk in the park just because you have a record player. To truly recreate the crisp, nostalgic resonance, one would need quality material and equipment.

Whether you already have a vinyl record player or are about to get one, make sure you get an excellent device with accessories of the same caliber. For example, an exceptional choice of a stylus for your turntable would be the Shure stylus, with marvelous craftsmanship and a 600-1000 hour playing time. These needles also provide a neutral sound and are compatible with a wide range of record players, guaranteeing the perfect match.