Collezione: FAQ's - Your Questions, Answered

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Grooves

The spiral lines etched into the surface of a vinyl record. These grooves contain the audio information that the stylus reads during playback.

Pressing

The manufacturing process used to create a vinyl record from a master recording. Collectors may look for specific pressings based on quality or rarity.

Mastering

The final stage of audio production where the audio tracks are prepared for distribution, including adjusting levels, equalization, and sequencing

Test pressing

A small batch of records pressed before full production to ensure quality and accuracy

Matrix number

A unique identifier etched into the runout groove of a vinyl record, often indicating the pressing plant and other production details.

Dead wax

The smooth area between the end of the grooves and the label. It often contains etchings such as catalog numbers, pressing info, or hidden messages.

Gatefold

A record sleeve that folds out, providing additional space for artwork or information

Inner sleeve

The paper or plastic sleeve inside the record jacket that protects the vinyl from scratches.

Outer sleeve

The protective cover for the record jacket, often made of plastic or polyethylene.

Needle / Stylus

The fine-tipped component at the end of a turntable's tonearm that sits in the grooves of a vinyl record. It tracks the grooves, reads the audio signal, and transmits it through the cartridge for amplification and playback.

AMPED

The term "amped" typically refers to a process called "amplified mastering." This involves boosting the volume or amplification of the audio signal during the mastering stage of production. Amplified mastering can make the music sound louder and more impactful, often enhancing its presence and intensity. However, excessive amplification can lead to issues such as distortion or loss of dynamic range, so it's important for mastering engineers to strike a balance to ensure optimal sound quality.