Tiny Vinyl: A New Spin on a Classic Format
A new contender has entered the music playback arena: Tiny Vinyl. This pocket-sized, 4-inch vinyl single format aims to blend the tactile appeal of physical records with the convenience of modern music consumption. Developed through a collaboration between a toy industry veteran and a major vinyl manufacturer, Tiny Vinyl records are pressed using a process nearly identical to their larger counterparts, but scaled down. Each 4-inch disc spins at 33⅓ RPM and can hold up to four minutes of music per side.
Who’s Embracing the Tiny Vinyl Wave?
While the format is still in its nascent stages, several artists are already experimenting with Tiny Vinyl. Independent bands like The Band Loula and Rainbow Kitten Surprise, alongside established names such as Blake Shelton and Melissa Etheridge, have released music on these miniature records. The format’s major push into the mainstream is marked by a significant partnership with retail giant Target, which will feature 44 exclusive Tiny Vinyl titles throughout the remainder of the year.
Hands-On with Tiny Vinyl
To gauge the real-world performance of Tiny Vinyl, we put several promotional and retail copies to the test. Our lineup included releases from former America’s Got Talent finalist Grace VanderWaal, The Band Loula, country stars Florida Georgia Line, and the iconic Vince Guaraldi Trio. These were played on a dedicated setup: an Audio Technica LP-120 direct drive turntable, a Yamaha S-301 integrated amplifier, and a pair of vintage Klipsch kg4 speakers.
Our Experience: The Good and The Not-So-Good
The initial impression of Tiny Vinyl is one of novelty and charm. The small size is undeniably appealing, and the act of placing a miniature record on the turntable brings a smile. The audio quality, while not reaching the audiophile heights of a full-sized LP, is generally clear and listenable, especially for casual listening sessions. However, the limited playback time per side—just four minutes—can be a significant drawback, interrupting the listening experience more frequently than traditional vinyl.
Furthermore, the market penetration for such a niche format remains a question mark. While the Target partnership is a strong indicator of commercial intent, the success of Tiny Vinyl will likely depend on its ability to carve out a distinct space between the ubiquitous digital streaming services and the established collector’s market for larger vinyl formats. Its appeal may lean towards novelty collectors and younger audiences less familiar with traditional vinyl.
The Verdict: A Fun Format, But Will It Last?
Tiny Vinyl presents an interesting, albeit imperfect, evolution of the vinyl record. It succeeds in offering a tangible, collectible music format that is also highly portable. The quality is decent for its size, and the artist support is growing. However, the inherent limitations in playback time and the challenge of competing in a crowded music landscape mean its long-term viability is yet to be determined. It’s a fun format for those seeking something different, but it may struggle to find a broad, lasting audience.
This story was based on reporting from Ars Technica. Read the full report here.
