Getting your music pressed on vinyl can seem like a daunting task. As artists explore this tangible format, many questions arise during the pressing process. Solid Merch is here to help! This guide addresses five of the most frequently asked questions to help you navigate your vinyl journey with confidence.
Can Audio Length Be Longer Than Recommended?
Every vinyl pressing plant has recommended audio lengths for a reason. Vinyl records have physical limitations, and exceeding these recommendations can result in compromised sound quality.
What are the recommended side lengths? If you’re pressing a 12″ record, 12 minutes per side is optimal at 45 RPM. Above 15 minutes, we recommend changing to 33 1/3 RPM. At 33 1/3 RPM, 14-18 minutes per side is ideal. At 20 minutes and longer, overall levels start to drop, surface noise will become more noticeable and bass may need to be trimmed. While you can go over those recommended side lengths, we do not recommend sides over 24 minutes.
Does 180g Vinyl Actually Sound Better?
The questions over vinyl weight has long been a topic of discussion among audiophiles. Records typically fall into three weight categories: lightweight (under 120g), standard (around 140g), and heavyweight (180g or more). Some audiophiles contend that the heavier weight reduces vibration from the turntable and are less likely to warp over time.
While the feel of a heavier vinyl can give the listener a perceived high-end listening experience, 180 gram does not have any difference in the grooves that are pressed, and any commercial player or listener would likely not notice much of a difference.
In summary, while heavier vinyl may offer some advantages, focusing on the overall quality of the pressing process is equally important.
What Does It Mean to Insert Records Behind Jackets?
Inserting records behind jackets refers to the practice of placing an additional record or records behind the primary jacket in the packaging. This method is becoming increasingly popular for artists who wish to provide bonus content or limited edition material.
The benefits of this practice are twofold. First, it adds value for fans by offering exclusive tracks, remixes, or live recordings. Second, it creates a more engaging unboxing experience, as fans discover hidden treasures within the packaging.
The added benefit to this, and the reason why it is standard for Solid Merch, is that it helps ensure the safety of the jackets during shipping as well. Inserting the records behind the jackets can help with avoiding seem splits, helping to make sure your order arrives in pristine condition.
What is Overage Allowance for vinyl and Why Is It Important?
Due to the complexity of vinyl production, there’s often some variation in the final quantity of records delivered to what was originally ordered. This is why we have an overage allowance.
For orders up to 1,000 units, the over/under allowance is typically 10%. Most final deliveries resulting in an overage of 3% to 8%. This buffer helps ensure you receive the full amount of records you’ve ordered. If we deliver fewer records than anticipated, we’ll adjust your final cost accordingly, refunding the difference based on the actual number of units delivered.
Do I Need Test Presses?
When it comes to vinyl pressing, test presses are your first line of defense against potential audio issues. A test press is a limited run of records created to assess the quality of the audio and the pressing process before the final production begins. Think of it as a rehearsal before the main show.
They allow you to listen to your music on vinyl, giving you the chance to catch any flaws in the mastering or pressing. Common issues identified during testing can include skipping, surface noise, and imbalanced channels. If something doesn’t sound right, the test press provides an opportunity to rectify it before committing to a full run.
In short, while it may seem like an extra step, obtaining test presses is a small investment in ensuring that your final product meets your artistic standards.
If you’re ordering one of our Gig Packages, or if you’re in a time crunch, you may be asking but what do I do if I can’t order test presses? Our production team will make sure to check for any technical issues with your audio upon your order submission. Once it moves to production, we’ll take multiple steps to make sure the quality is as great as possible, and check for any glaring issues. We have done thousands of orders with no test presses and very rarely come across any issues after the project is finished.
Conclusion
Understanding the intricacies of vinyl pressing can empower independent musicians to make informed decisions that enhance their final product. By addressing common vinyl questions about test presses, audio length, vinyl weight, inserts, and overage allowances, you can navigate the pressing process with confidence.
As you embark on your vinyl journey, remember that Solid-Merch is here to help with your questions. If you have further questions or need guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out to our excellent customer care team!
