Vinyl records are flat discs made of polyvinyl chloride that store sound recordings. They come in various sizes, with the most common being 12-inch and 7-inch formats. The grooves on the surface of the record are read by a needle in a turntable, converting the physical grooves into audible sound. Originally popular from the late 19th century until the 1980s, vinyl records have seen a resurgence in recent years due to their warm sound quality and nostalgic appeal. Many music enthusiasts appreciate the tangible experience of collecting and playing albums on vinyl, often featuring artwork and liner notes.