Definition

Noun: * An automatic mechanical device on a record player that causes new records to be played without manual intervention. It is a component that holds a stack of phonograph records and automatically drops and plays them in sequence.

Usage

• The term "record changer" specifically refers to the mechanical apparatus, not the entire record player. It describes its function of changing discs automatically.
• It is a compound noun. The primary meaning is the device itself.
• Example: "My grandfather's old hi-fi system had a record changer that could play up to ten LPs in a row."

Examples

• "After the first record finished, the record changer smoothly placed the next one on the turntable."
• "Vintage record changers are popular among collectors of antique audio equipment."
• "The record changer mechanism is jammed, so we have to change each record by hand."

Advanced Usage

• The concept is largely historical, associated with mid-20th century audio technology before the dominance of cassette tapes and compact discs.
• It can be used metaphorically to describe any system that processes a series of items automatically, though this is rare.
  • Example (metaphorical): "The new software acts like a record changer for data files, processing them one after another without pause."

Variants and Related Words

• Automatic changer: A more general term that can apply to devices for records or cartridges (e.g., in a CD player).
• Turntable: The rotating platter on which the record sits. A record changer incorporates a turntable but adds the automatic stacking and dropping mechanism.
• Phonograph / Record player: The overall device for playing vinyl records. A record changer is a type of, or an attachment for, a record player.

Synonyms

• Auto-changer
• Automatic record player (when referring to a unit containing this mechanism)

Notes on Meaning

• The term has only one primary meaning: the specific mechanical device for automatically playing multiple records.
• It is not commonly used in modern contexts unless discussing vintage audio technology.

Noun

1. an automatic mechanical device on a record player that causes new records to be played without manual intervention