On Tuesday, 17th April, Science in Radstock – the series of popular science talks organised by Radstock Museum volunteers – will present the last talk in the spring season by welcoming local specialist, Adrian Tuddenham.

Adrian will talk about ‘The Science of Scratch: Why are old records scratchy and how do we rescue the original sound?’

Historic research shows that the first disc records were deliberately made scratchy for technical reasons and playing them with the best modern equipment actually makes the situation worse. By making use of redundant information hidden in the grooves, a lot of the scratch can be identified and removed by analogue computing methods. A live demonstration is planned.

Adrian Tuddenham worked as a biological instrumentation designer using analogue computing methods. As a side line, he developed an analogue method for de-clicking old recordings, and eventually became a sub-contractor for the National Sound Archive (now part of the British Library). He has also worked on projects for the BBC and several specialist record companies and has designed and built equipment to rescue sound recordings from many obscure and obsolete formats.

All are welcome at Radstock Working Men’s Club at 7.30 p.m. on 17th April, but please be advised that our speaker has an allergy to perfume and has requested that none is worn on the evening of his talk.

To register for updates on the Autumn programme of Radstock Museum talks, please visit: radstockmuseum.co.uk/our-talks-programme/

Jill Parker