Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a minimum amount of records for each order?
Currently, our minimum order is 100. Our first price break is at an order of 500. In most examples, the cost per record drops by about 50% moving from a quantity of 100 up to a quantity of 500.
How quickly can I expect to receive my records?
There are several factors to consider when quoting turn times for record pressing. While we cannot provide a guaranteed delivery date, if requested, The Vinyl Lab (TVL) will provide a safe window of time to expect your shipment. Before any timelines start, TVL will need your audio files (digital or vinyl mastered), your artwork in TVL-specific templates and your deposit (75%). Again not guaranteed, a general timeline is provided below:
● Upon receipt of the items above, expect a window of 6-8 weeks to receive your test pressings.
● Upon approval of your approval of test pressings, depending on the current queue, and size of order, production (including pressing, assembly, packaging, shipping) can take approximately 4-8+ weeks.
We realize that you are as anxious to get the vinyl in your hands as we are to get it to you, so know that we will keep you in the loop throughout the process. We pride ourselves on our customer service, and being available to our clients.
Do you press color vinyl?
We do! Please visit thevinylab.com/vinyl-colors for our full catalog of available colors. We are also able to mix 2-4 colors and achieve different effects, including marbling.
Can I rush my order?
We do not offer rush ordering as we strive to get every order out as quickly as possible all while adhering to the highest quality standards our TVL is known for.
What size and weight records do you offer?
We offer 140g and 180g records and press 7" and 12" records.
How much music can I fit onto each side of my record?
7" 45 RPM: 4-6 minutes.
7" 33 RPM: not recommended. 12 33" RPM: 15-20 minutes. 18 minutes being the sweet spot. Over 20 minutes is not recommended, but it is possible. 12" 45 RPM: 12-16 minutes.What is a test pressing and why is it important?
A test pressing is an example of your record with a generic label and basic packaging for you to test the sound and quality of your recording. We will make sure there are no obvious issues on our end before sending the tests to you. A few notes about test pressings:
● Test pressing allow the artist, producer, label, management company, etc. check the records for quality
● TVL normally sends five test pressings, unless you have asked for more.
● All test vinyl records go through TVL’s stringent quality control standards prior to shipment/pickup.
● You are welcomed to listen to your test pressings here at TVL’s listening room (then take them home to listen on other equipment).
● All test vinyl records are black (whether your order is black or color).
● Test pressings may be in 140g or 180g weight.
● We do not move your project into production until we receive your approval, or you specifically waive your approval in writing (which is not recommended). We appreciate your approval within a few days of your receipt in order to move your project into production, and keep your order flowing.
What is a sleeve and a jacket? Can I customize them?
A sleeve is the white paper insert that comes standard with every record, cut to show off the center label design of your record. A jacket is the cardboard outside that houses and protects the record. Both jackets and sleeves can be customized.
Can I print any music I choose to on vinyl?
A mechanical license grants permission to reproduce and distribute copyrighted musical compositions in different formats. You need it to distribute a song you don't own or control. The Harry Fox Agency (HFA) is the most common source for securing Mechanical Licenses, but if they don't have the desired song, contact the license owner/publishing company directly. Songfile, a division of HFA, is recommended for covering songs. Some samples are so short that you may not need a Mechanical License because it does not represent the song as a whole (although you will always need a Master License). TVL takes copyright compliance very seriously. We will scan your recordings for any unauthorized sampling. Unless you can provide a master license for the sampled recording and a mechanical license as well, you will be asked to remove such content and re-submit without samples. A Mechanical License is mandatory before shipping records.
Do you charge for test pressings?
Yes, test pressings are $125. All test pressings will be pressed on black vinyl.
Can I get my deposit back if I decide to cancel my order?
If your order has already started processing, no. If you cancel before TVL has incurred any costs, your deposit is refundable.
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