A phonograph is an early device used to play sound recordings. It works by using a needle that vibrates as it moves along grooves on a vinyl record. These vibrations are then amplified to produce music or spoken words. Invented in the late 19th century, the phonograph was one of the first machines to capture and reproduce sound, making it a significant innovation in the world of music. Over time, phonographs evolved into more advanced models, leading to the development of turntables and record players. While they have largely been replaced by digital music formats, many people still appreciate the warm sound and nostalgic charm of listening to records on a phonograph.