Vinyl Pressing and Direct Metal Mastering (DMM)

The vinyl record pressing process involves several key steps, from mastering the audio to producing the final vinyl records. Using the Direct Metal Mastering (DMM) technique, we engrave audio directly onto a copper-plated master disc, ensuring accuracy and efficiency. This innovative approach streamlines the traditional method, resulting in high-quality records with enhanced sound fidelity.

Audio Mastering

Before the vinyl pressing process begins, the audio needs to be mastered specifically for vinyl. This involves preparing the audio files to ensure they translate well to the analog format, with considerations for the unique characteristics of vinyl playback.

Cutting the Master Disc

In the case of DMM, the audio is directly engraved onto a copper-plated master disc. For traditional lacquer cutting, the audio is first cut onto a lacquer-coated aluminum disc. This master disc serves as the template for creating the stampers used in pressing.

Electroplating

Once the master disc is cut, it undergoes electroplating to create a metal negative, often referred to as a “father.” For DMM, this is a direct process, while for lacquer, it involves several steps to produce the father, mother, and stamper discs.

Creating the Stampers

The father disc is used to create a positive metal “mother,” which in turn is used to create the stampers. These stampers are the final molds used in the pressing process. In DMM, the one-step process simplifies this significantly.

Pressing the Vinyl

With the stampers ready, vinyl pellets are melted and formed into “biscuits,” which are then placed in a hydraulic press. The stampers press the grooves into the vinyl under high pressure and heat, creating the final vinyl records.

Trimming and Packaging

The pressed records are trimmed to size, and any excess material is removed. The records are then inspected for quality, placed into sleeves, and packaged for distribution.

Preparing Your Audio for Vinyl

For more detailed information on how to prepare your audio master for vinyl, please see our Vinyl Pressing 101 FAQs.

Direct Metal Mastering (DMM) is a method of cutting master stampers for vinyl record pressing. Instead of a three step process using lacquers, DMM cutting lathes engrave audio directly onto a copper-plated master disc. The one-step plating process is more reliable and efficient than two or three step lacquer mastering.

Advantages of DMM

• Cost: With one-step mastering, there is no additional cost for lacquer cutting!

• Efficiency: Production time is faster and there is no need to rush metalwork between lacquer cutting and pressing facilities. With fewer steps there is also less risk of error or damaged parts.

• Accuracy: Transient response and stereo image are improved due to the hard surface material of the master disc.

• Reduced noise & groove echo: Bypassing lacquer cutting reduces the risk of introducing noise during the additional processes. DMM also reduces the risk of interference between grooves, which causes “groove echo” in soft-cut lacquers.

• Frequency response: Reduced surface noise and more precise analog conversion provide a broader overall frequency response. Treble frequencies are represented transparently, and bass is typically tight and well defined. DMM records can seem brighter than lacquer masters because of their more comprehensive frequency response.

• Discounted Reorders: When orders are placed through Solid-Merch, we hang onto your metalwork for 3 years from the date of purchase. That means when you reorder, you can order with a reduced setup cost!