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Picture disc

What is picture disc? A clear definition from the recording section of our glossary, with 12 related terms, tools to try and further reading.

Definition of Picture disc

Picture discs are gramophone (phonograph) records that show images on their playing surface, rather than being of plain black or colored vinyl. Collectors traditionally reserve the term "picture disc" for records with graphics that extend at least partly into the actual playable grooved area,

distinguishing them from picture label discs, which have a specially illustrated and sometimes very large label, and picture back discs, which are illustrated on one unplayable side only.

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Frequently asked questions

What is Picture disc?

Picture discs are gramophone (phonograph) records that show images on their playing surface, rather than being of plain black or colored vinyl.

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