A gramophone is a device used to play sound recordings. It works by using a needle that vibrates as it moves along the grooves of a vinyl record. These vibrations are then amplified to produce sound. The gramophone was popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and is considered a precursor to modern music players. The design of the gramophone typically features a large horn that helps project the sound. Early models were often made of wood and metal, while later versions included more advanced materials. The gramophone played a significant role in the history of recorded music, influencing artists like Thomas Edison and Emile Berliner.