Imagine taking mp3/wav/digital files and turning them into a physical product. That's just what Amanda Ghassaei from Instructables did. She took her 3D printer to the next level and converted digital audio files into printable, playable records! The sound is somewhat distorted, but the concept is unique, and Ghassaei has FANTASTIC taste in music - she used songs from Joy Division, New Order, Nirvana, The Pixies, Radiohead, and Daft Punk to create her prototype demo video!
Take a look/listen at a few prototypes she created in the video* posted below:
Ghassaei published an explanation of how she went about creating the records, and posted very detailed instructions for readers interested in attempting it on their own. The discussion begins with info on other audio projects she's worked on, then there's a section on the mechanism of a record player (how records work, audio signals, etc). Fair warning - it might be a bit too much information for just the casual reader, but if you'd like to have a go at producing your own records, take some time to read through the fantastic resource. Visit Instructables here (accessed via The Verge).
*Songs/bands included in the demo video
Nirvana "Smells Like Teen Spirit"
New Order "Blue Monday"
Pixies "Debaser"
Daft Punk "Around The World"
Radiohead "Everything In Its Right Place"
Joy Division "Disorder"