Frequently asked questions.
The essential answers on orders, audio files, production and delivery.
Before you begin
01What is the minimum run?
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The minimum run is 100 copies.
02What are the production lead times?
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Lead times are given in the quote and start from the approval of the audio, the artwork and the order confirmation. If a technical problem changes the schedule, we keep you informed during the work.
03What rights do I need to press a record?
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You must hold the rights, licences and permissions to reproduce the content. We may ask you for the documentation before starting production.
04How do I choose a catalogue number?
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If the label has not assigned one, choose a short code for the project or the artist. Use capitals and numbers, with no spaces and no special characters: we also use it to file the stampers.
05Are VAT and duties included?
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The quote separates the price, VAT and shipping. Any import duties or taxes depend on the destination country and are considered separately.
Preparing the master
06Are test pressings compulsory?
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Five test pressings come with every run. They let you hear and approve the record before the full production. Read the guidelines →
07Which audio formats can I send?
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Lossless WAV, AIFF or FLAC, at the highest resolution available, up to 32 bit / 192 kHz. One file per side, with the tracks in sequence and the gaps already set. Full requirements →
08Do you accept lacquers or metal parts from the client?
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Yes. Write to us before shipping them and we will tell you how. In that case our control over the stages before pressing is limited.
09What side lengths do you recommend?
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For a 12-inch record: 18 to 20 minutes at 33⅓ rpm, or up to 9 minutes at 45 rpm. The workable length still depends on the master.
10What happens if a side goes beyond 20 minutes?
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A longer side normally needs a lower cutting level and can increase the risk of distortion towards the centre. Consider changing the track order, or using two records.
11Which cutting process do you use?
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We cut the lacquers at Formello, on a Neumann VMS70 lathe. Groove level and spacing are set during the real-time cut.
12Do you offer mastering for vinyl?
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Yes. Mastering is handled by Enisslab, in the same Formello complex. If the master is already prepared, it can be checked before the cut.
Materials and represses
13Will the colour match what I see on screen?
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No. Different screens, and variation between PVC batches, change the result. Colours on screen are indicative. Precise references are agreed before production.
14Is there more surface noise on coloured vinyl than on black?
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Black is normally the quietest. Some colours and combinations can raise surface noise. Say so in the quote request if that matters to you.
15How long do you keep the stampers?
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Stampers stay in the archive for a year after the last pressing. After that they are disposed of, unless you ask us to keep them: then it is €50 per six months. We keep masters and production materials for twelve months after the last order. Write to us within that time to check a repress or to arrange longer storage.
Where the records go
16Can I collect the records from the factory?
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Yes. Collection at the Formello plant is arranged before delivery.
17Do you ship outside Europe?
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Yes. Put the country and the postcode in the quote request and we will estimate the shipping.
18Can you split an order between several addresses?
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Yes. Give us each address and its quantity before confirming the order, and the cost is worked out in the quote.