Scanning electron micrograph of a stylus in the groove of a long-playing gramophone record. The picture shows a diamond stylus (yellow) encrusted with dirt (brown) accumulated after playing many records. The background shows the surface of the PVC disc, with grooves about 0.5mm wide running diagonally. To the left of the stylus, the modulations inside each groove appear in focus as a series of ridges; this waveform produces the eventual sound, as the stylus closely follows the undulating surface. The picture also shows dust on the disc surface, and small defects in the form of cracks. Both emphasise the need for careful handling, cleaning, and storage of PVC records. Digital discs (CDs, DVDs) are more robust. PVC discs are now made via digital masters, but some listeners prefer the sound produced by a pick-up; its analogue output sidesteps one extra stage of digital processing.