What are the factors to consider when providing audio for my record?
Please read the section titled “Audio File Considerations for Cutting and Vinyl Manufacture” for detailed information. What follows is a Summary of Requirements for Optimal Audio Quality:
- Audio must be mastered specifically for vinyl.
- File Format: 24 bit WAV files, preferred supplied as one complete file for each side as opposed to individual tracks.
- Sample Rate: 44, 100 Hz to 192kHz
- Volume: -3dBu
- Length: Max 22 mins per side
What do I need to press my record?
Before your record goes into production, we need the all of following:
- Catalogue number.
- Audio files, mastered specifically for vinyl. See “Audio File Considerations” for more information on this.
- Relevant artwork files for labels and sleeves, set only to templates and guidelines as provided by Dublin Vinyl unless previously agreed.
- Completed Audio Cutting Form.
- 50% deposit to confirm order.
Why do you need all of the above before going into production?
This is to ensure that all elements of production run concurrently to deliver the highest quality record. An example being to avoid a record being pressed before print/packaging is ready for its assembly, as this can risk damage to the record from being exposed or moved in storage.
What is a Catalogue number?
A Catalogue number (or CAT no.) is required with your record for identification purposes. Generally speaking this is a series of letters and numbers chosen by the artist, label or distributor of the recording, for example “DV001”. Where possible the Catalogue number should be unique to that recording but this is not essential.
What are your turnaround times?
We’re currently turning orders around in 6-8 weeks from receipt of all audio/artwork files, deposit and all other elements mentioned above.
What is the difference between 140g standard weight and 180g heavyweight vinyl?
From our experience there is no difference in the audio quality between 140g and 180g vinyl. The difference is purely a tactile one; 180g feels notably sturdier and is considered to make a record feel like more of a collector’s item and as such is by far the more popular option. There is an audiophile argument that the heavier the weight of a record, the more stable it is on the turntable and hence better the quality of the audio, but from our experience there is no audible difference on a standard turntable/system.
What is the difference between 33 RPM and 45 RPM?
RPM (Revolutions Per Minute) indicates the speed at which your record rotates on the turntable. Generally speaking singles are pressed at 45RPM and albums at 33RPM. See “Audio Considerations” for more detail on this.
Is my music safe from pirates?
We understand the importance of privacy and data protection, and have taken every reasonable measure to prevent unauthorised ears from hearing your recordings or seeing your record’s artwork before its release date. For this reason, please do not send your audio/artwork files by email or any means other than the secure upload links we provide with confirmation of your order.
What are Polylined inner sleeves?
Polylined inner sleeves have an extra layer of polythene inside the sleeve, giving a transparent “window” effect through the hole. Generally (but not always) favoured for added protection for your record.
What is your minimum order quantity?
Our minimum run is 300. We have no maximum!
Do you provide Test Pressings for sign off?
We supply 3-5 test pressings delivered to one address as standard for every record we press, unless otherwise specified by the customer.
Do you press 7” or 10” records?
Currently we’re only pressing 12” records, but will be introducing 7” and 10” in the not-too-distant future.
Do you press coloured vinyl, splatter discs or picture discs?
We’ve sourced some of the highest quality coloured PVC for vinyl manufacture, producing some of the best sounding coloured vinyl records in the industry. We recommend reading “Audio Considerations” if planning on pressing your record on coloured vinyl.
We’re not currently pressing splatter or picture discs but plan on introducing these a little down the line.
Can I come and visit the plant and see my record being pressed?
Unfortunately not. We do have a huge love for what we do here, but we are operating a manufacturing factory and as such are required to stay within strict health and safety guidelines. So while we do plan on hosting tours and events, please don’t be offended that we can’t accept visits to the plant during operating hours.
Can you drop-ship my records (break up delivery to different addresses)?
Currently on standard orders we will only deliver complete orders to one single address.
Can you store records after they’ve been pressed?
We do not have storage facilities in Dublin Vinyl, and ship orders daily either as scheduled or as soon as they are ready.
What are your payment terms?
We require 50% deposit to get your record into production, and the remaining 50% payable before shipping the full run of records for delivery.
Do you provide an audio mastering service?
We do work closely with a number of highly skilled mastering engineers so while we don’t provide the service in-house, we can make recommendations and put you in touch directly if required. All audio provided must be provided mastered specifically for vinyl. See “Audio Considerations” for more information on this.
Who monitors copyright?
We are obliged to provide a complete list of all records we produce to MCPSI (Mechanical Copyright Protection Society Ireland Ltd). By choosing to press with Dublin Vinyl, you confirm that have obtained an Audio Product Licence (AP2) and authorise us to provide your order’s information and contact details to MCPSI for review. For more information on this please review this information and contact MCPSI: david.galligan@imro.ie / +353 1 6448023.