Vinyl Production FAQs
What is involved with making an LP?
Making a record is a fun but complex process. We start with your CD-R audio master and will first cut lacquers. The lacquers will then go through a metaling process to create the stampers used to press your LPs. From there, we will make four test pressings for you to approve before we actually start manufacturing the records. During this process, we will also provide PDF proofs for all artwork.
You are also welcome to supply either your own lacquers or plates. Keep in mind that if you do provide your own lacquers or plates, you will be responsible for replacing them if they are damaged in production or transit. Inquire with a project manager for details.
What is the Turnaround Time on a LP order?
Due to the complex manufacturing process, LP production typically takes anywhere from six to eight weeks. We will make every effort to meet your deadlines, but be patient, as there are many steps in making a record!
What are the different available weights for my vinyl order?
Our standard weight for vinyl is as follows:
12" - 140 grams
10" - 100 grams
7" - 40 grams.
We also offer 180 gram vinyl for 12" orders (minimum of 500 pieces). The weight of a record can vary +/- 5 grams due to the trimming of the excess vinyl after the LPs are pressed.
How long are each side of a record?
There is a limit to how long a side of a record can play without sacrificing the sound quality. Please refer to the chart below while mastering for vinyl.
Vinyl Running Times (Per Side)
12" Records
45 rpm - 12:00 (Optimal time limit) - 15:00 (Maximum time limit)
33 1/3 rpm - 17:00 (Optimal time limit) - 22:00 (Maximum time limit)
10" Records
45 rpm - 7:00 (Optimal time limit) - 9:00 (Maximum time limit)
33 1/3 rpm - 11:00 (Optimal time limit) - 15:00 (Maximum time limit)
7" Records
45 rpm - 3:00 (Optimal time limit) - 4:00 (Maximum time limit)
33 1/3 rpm - 5:00 (Optimal time limit) - 6:00 (Maximum time limit)
Do you offer colored vinyl?
Below are the seven basic colors of vinyl. Please note: these values are approximate. Since these colored base colors are semi-transparent (except for white and black), the color will vary depending on the lighting conditions.
We can also mix these colors to achieve different colors, but the results vary and we can't guarantee matching color. Usually this involves adding white or black to a color to lighten or darken it, but note that this also makes the vinyl opaque.
Please inquire with a project manager for the additional cost for colored vinyl. Please also note that colored vinyl has a lower sound quality than black vinyl, and the minimum colored vinyl order is 500 pieces.
What can I print on the LP Labels?
The vinyl label is the paper artwork that goes onto the center of the vinyl itself. We can print one to four color labels, using CMYK or PMS colors. White is the standard label background for any full color images, but the colors below are also available to be used as 7", 10", and 12" label backgrounds for no additional cost. You can specify any spot Pantone color as a background, but it is charged as an additional color.
NOTE: Labels are subjected to high temperature during manufacturing, and this may cause colors to vary slightly, often "yellowing" lighter colors.
All vinyl packages are priced at one PMS color on one of our stock papers. Please inquire with a project manager for pricing for multiple color printing.
Below are all of our standard stock colored labels.
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White |
Yellow |
Magenta |
Cyan |
Silver |
Gold |
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Red 032 |
Orange 021 |
Reflex Blue |
Green |
Purple |
Black |
What other services are offered with vinyl?
We also offer additional printed inserts, download cards, and packaging stickers. We are also happy to insert any supplied printed piece. Talk to a project manager to customize your order!
Do you make picture discs, marbled colored LPs, or special die cut LPs?
Yes! We love making custom LPs! Inquire with a project manager for a quote on your unique project.