I’m planning a vinyl release for the first time. Where do I start?

In short, vinyl production is a five step process. The first step is to have your audio mastered specifically for vinyl; there are specific guidelines that must be followed to successfully translate your audio to a physical medium. The next step is to cut a reference acetate, which will be sent to you for approval. Reference acetates are recommended, but not required, and can be replaced with a digital version of your vinyl masters. If you do receive a reference acetate, you will be shipped review instructions as well. Upon approval, master lacquers will be cut and sent to the plating facility. The electroplating process creates the stamper that is then sent to the pressing facility. The pressing plant then produces the final product.

How do I find a plating or pressing facility?

We are happy to recommend plating and pressing facilities to clients upon request.

What’s the ideal length of a 7”, 10” or 12”?

We have a set of guidelines for program length on vinyl, but each project varies. Depending on your material, we can cut a longer side or suggest other options. Here are the ideal (not maximum) lengths we recommend:     

7-inch: 6-8 minutes per side at 33rpm OR 2 to 3.5 minutes per side at 45rpm

10-inch: 12-14 minutes per side at 33rpm OR 8.5 minutes per side at 45rpm

12-inch: 18-20 minutes per side at 33rpm OR 12 minutes per side at 45rpm

What’s a catalog number and do I need one?  

A catalog number, also called a matrix number, is a set of letters and numbers used to identify your record and yes, you need one. Artists and labels create their own catalog number, such as Infra-001 or XYZ-666.

We will etch the catalog number into the inner diameter of your vinyl lacquer. It will be used to keep track of your release during production and will appear on your pressed records. 

What is scribe information?

Typically, your catalog number (see above) is etched, or “scribed,” into the inner diameter of your record, but you can choose to have additional information, or a personal message, included. For example, on Joy Division’s Closer LP, the message “This is the way” was etched into side A, and “step inside” into side b.

These FAQ’s didn’t answer my question. What do I do now?

Give us a call or shoot us an email here: info@infrasonicsound.com