Vinyl records have made a strong comeback in recent years, celebrated for their warm sound and tactile experience. But have you ever wondered how vinyl records are made? At Southbound Press s.r.l., we specialize in the art and science of vinyl manufacturing, and in this article, we’ll take you through the fascinating process step by step. Whether you’re a vinyl enthusiast or just curious, understanding how records are made adds a new level of appreciation for these timeless music treasures.
Step 1: Mastering the Audio
Before the physical creation of the vinyl record begins, the audio must first be mastered. This process involves fine-tuning the sound so that it can be accurately engraved into a vinyl format. Mastering ensures that the volume levels, equalization, and frequency ranges are optimized for vinyl playback. The resulting audio file becomes the blueprint for the rest of the production process.
Step 2: Lacquer Cutting
Once the audio has been mastered, it’s time to move to the first physical step: lacquer cutting. The audio is transferred onto a lacquer-coated disc using a precision lathe. This machine carves tiny grooves into the lacquer, translating the sound waves into a physical form. The grooves represent the highs, lows, and mids of the music, with each groove varying in width and depth based on the sound frequency.
This initial lacquer disc is delicate and will serve as the master copy from which all vinyl records will be pressed.
Step 3: Electroplating
After the lacquer disc is cut, it undergoes an electroplating process to create a metal “stamper.” The lacquer disc is submerged in a bath filled with chemicals and an electrical current is applied. A layer of nickel forms on the lacquer, creating a negative impression of the grooves. This negative, called the “father,” is then used to create a positive “mother” disc, which will be used to make multiple stampers for mass production.
This electroplating process ensures durability and precision when pressing large quantities of records.
Step 4: Vinyl Pressing
Now comes the iconic step of pressing the vinyl. The stamper is placed in a record press, which is heated and paired with PVC (polyvinyl chloride) pellets. The press melts the PVC into a soft puck of plastic, known as a “biscuit.” This biscuit is sandwiched between two stampers, and extreme pressure is applied to form the grooves of the record. As the press cools, the vinyl solidifies, leaving the detailed grooves on both sides of the disc.
Step 5: Trimming and Quality Control
Once the vinyl has been pressed, it undergoes trimming to remove excess plastic from the edges. Each record is carefully inspected for defects, such as warping, scratches, or irregular grooves that could affect sound quality. High standards are essential at this stage to ensure every vinyl produced meets the desired audio fidelity and aesthetic expectations.
Step 6: Labeling and Packaging
The final step in the process involves adding the center label, which is usually pressed onto the record during the vinyl pressing stage. Labels contain information about the album, such as the artist name, track listing, and record company. Once labeled, records are placed in protective sleeves and packaged for distribution.
At Southbound Press, we understand that vinyl records are more than just a medium for music—they are an art form. From carefully mastering the audio to pressing each disc with precision, the process of making vinyl records requires expertise, attention to detail, and a deep passion for music.