Technical Information
Premium Lathe-Cut Vinyl Records
Our Premium Difference
At Gold Coast Magic Records, we specialise in producing exceptionally high-quality lathe-cut vinyl records that deliver superior sonic performance on any turntable. Our premium service combines meticulous craftsmanship with advanced DSP (digital signal processing) and automated cutting techniques to create records that surpass typical lathe-cut expectations.
Complete Mastering-to-Vinyl Solution
We eliminate the complexities typically associated with vinyl production by handling the entire mastering-to-vinyl process in-house. Simply send us your mastered audio files, and our in-house purpose built vinyl cutting lathe will process and master your audio ready for vinyl at no extra cost!
These mastering processes are included in the price:
- Optimise your audio specifically for the vinyl medium
- Apply appropriate RIAA equalisation curves
- Ensure proper phase alignment and stereo imaging
- Balance frequency response for optimal playback
- Implement precise groove spacing and depth control
File Submission Guidelines
Audio Media (music)
When submitting audio for Gold Coast Magic Records to cut onto vinyl, we require the best quality that you can give us. For optimal results, provide your mastered audio files in one of the following formats:
- Preferred Formats: WAV or AIFF (24-bit, 44.1kHz)
- Alternative Formats: FLAC, AAC, MP3 (will NOT be accepted)
- Recommended Headroom: N/A, we automatically level and master your audio
Visual Media (images)
We require your artwork submissions to follow our Artwork Submission Guide Lines. We can provide this additional service at a fee if you are not able to provide the artwork as specified, please contact us.
- Preferred Format: PNG media, correctly sized with images placed inc bleed margins
- Formats Not Accepted: PSD (photoshop), PDF, or EPS (illustrator) format
Audio Specifications
Physical Specifications
- Available Sizes: 7″, 12″
- Available Speeds: 33⅓ RPM, 45 RPM (optimised for content length and fidelity)
- Maximum Durations:
- 12″ Dubplate (typically cut at +3dB to +12dB max)
- Up to 13 minutes per side, 2 tracks per side max, at 33⅓ RPM
- Up to 8 minutes per side, one track per side max, at 45 RPM
- 12″ Artist / 12″ Playlist
- Up to 17 minutes per side, at 33⅓ RPM
- 7″ Single
- Up to 4 minutes 30 seconds per side, at 45 RPM
- 12″ Dubplate (typically cut at +3dB to +12dB max)
- Substrate Materials: Black PETG (more readily recyclable than some other plastics like PVC, making it a more sustainable choice.)
Our Cutting Process
Our precision in-house engineered record lathe cutting system utilises:
- High-definition heated diamond stylus technology for cleaner groove definition
- Real-time dynamic feedback monitoring during cutting
- Custom-modified Neumann-inspired cutting heads
- Vibration-isolated cutting environment
- Manual quality control at multiple production stages
This meticulous approach results in records with:
- Enhanced low-frequency response
- Reduced inner-groove distortion
- Superior tracking performance on standard cartridges
- Extended record lifespan with minimal wear
Limited Production Advantages
Unlike mass-produced pressed vinyl, our lathe-cut records are:
- Individually crafted using our automated cutting process for consistent quality
- Available in small quantities without minimum order requirements
- Ideal for limited edition releases, test cuts, or unique projects
- Produced with shorter lead times than traditional pressing plants
Care Instructions
To maintain the exceptional sound quality of your premium lathe-cut records:
- Store vertically in the provided high-quality inner sleeves and outer protective cover
- Clean before and after playback using appropriate record cleaning solutions
- Handle by edges only, avoiding contact with the playing surface
Ordering Process
- Submit your order, you will be contacted via email with further instructions
- Upload the requested media (audio and cover images) via our secure upload portal
- Once received and media is approved, your order progresses to the cutting and art rooms
- Your record and your custom cover artwork (if applicable) is created
- We quality control each record, securely package and dispatch it to you!
- Production typically completed within 7-14 business days
Contact us at contact@goldcoastmagicrecords.com.au for any specific questions about your project requirements.