A phonograph is a device used to play recorded sound. It works by using a needle that vibrates as it moves along grooves on a rotating disc, known as a record. The vibrations are then amplified to produce audible sound. Phonographs were first developed in the late 19th century and were popular for playing music before the advent of modern audio technology. The invention of the phonograph is credited to Thomas Edison, who created the first working model in 1877. Over the years, phonographs evolved into various forms, including the turntable and gramophone, which made listening to music more accessible to the public. Today, phonographs are often appreciated for their vintage appeal and the unique sound quality they provide.