Mastering & Lacquer Terms
LACQUER MASTERING
This technique involves removing the music from your CDR source or WAVE file and placing it onto a lacquer. When your music is transferred to a lacquer no changes to the music are made. Mastering is creating an original record by cutting a wobbling groove into a smooth lacquer disc.
Erika Records offers in-house lacquer mastering. Prices differ depending on record format, length, and mastering method. Standard methods include tape or digital audio tape (DAT).
LACQUER
A lacquer is a soft, waxy version of your record used to create the metal stampers needed to press your records.
LASER ETCH MASTERING
This is a technique used to etch artwork into one side of the mastering record. When getting a laser etch mastering done, the master will only be able to have one side of music unless the client wants etching on the outer rim and music in the center.
Groove Types & Special Cuts
LOCKED GROOVE
Locked grooves repeat every turn of the record. There are two types:
- Fall-in locks: Placed at the end of a selection. The groove forms a concentric circle that repeats the last 1.8 or 1.3333 seconds until the tone arm is lifted.
- Stand-alone locks: A single groove cut that forms a concentric circle.
REVERSE GROOVE (INSIDE-OUT GROOVE)
The groove starts in the center and travels outward instead of starting on the outside and traveling inward.
DOUBLE GROOVE
A record containing two distinct tracks interlaced.
ROULETTE MASTERING
Similar to double groove, but contains anywhere from 3 to 40 distinct interlaced tracks.
Etching, Identification & Reference Parts
PERSONAL ETCHING
Used to place a personal message next to the record’s catalog number.
REFERENCE DISCS OR REFERENCE ACETATES
Sample discs made before lacquer mastering or plating is complete. They replicate exact mastering levels so you can check your audio before spending on metal parts and test pressings.
SCRIBE / ETCHED / CATALOG NUMBER / MATRIX NUMBER
Numbers or letters chosen by the customer and etched into the vinyl between the last track and the center label. Used for tracking records.
Metal Parts & Processing
3 STEP PROCESSING (FULL PROCESSING)
Recommended for orders over 5,000 pieces.
- Creates a Father, a Mother, and a Stamper.
- A Father is needed to create more Mothers.
2 STEP PROCESSING (PLATING / METAL PARTS)
Creates a Mother and a Stamper.
- A Mother is used to produce more stampers.
- A Mother is good for about 5,000 records before needing replacement.
FATHER
Used to make Mothers, which then create stampers.
PLATING
The process of creating metal stampers from lacquers.
STAMPERS
Stampers press the vinyl and transfer the music onto the record.
BLANK STAMPER / EXTRA STAMPER
A stamper with no grooves. Used when you want a B-side with no music.
Packaging & Printed Materials
LABELS
Circles found in the center of your record. They are not stickers—they are embedded into the vinyl during pressing. Labels are made from special heat-resistant paper.
If no side markings are provided, Erika Records is not responsible for incorrect placement.
SLEEVES
White paper die-cut covers for 7”, 10”, and 12” records.
JACKETS
Covers for 5”, 7”, 10”, and 12” records.
Styles include gatefold, tip-on board, reverse board, and various finishes.
SHRINK WRAP
Clear cellophane wrapping for 10” or 12” records.
Available in loose or tight wrap.
Provides a clean, retail-ready finish.
SLICK
The large printed label used to create picture records.
Slicks can be made in any size to match your chosen picture disc.
Vinyl Types & Color Effects
RECYCLED VINYL / REGRIND
Destroyed records are ground up and reused.
A 100% recycled record will have poor sound quality.
SPLATTER VINYL
Assorted colors are sprinkled onto a background color, like sprinkles on ice cream.
Best results come from using clear vinyl as the base.
MARBLE VINYL
Two or more colors blended together to create a marble effect.
No two records are identical.
Colors can be chosen by the customer or created by Erika’s design team.
COLOR BLEND VINYL (HAZE VINYL)
Two distinct colors, heated separately, blended together.
The two colors remain visible as blended, not mixed.
Pressing & Proofing
TEST PRESSING
A sample record used to approve audio before full pressing.
If no test pressing is requested and issues appear later, Erika Records is not financially responsible for re-pressings.
CONTACT US
Still Have Questions?
If you’re not sure about your exact specs, don’t worry. Our team can help you choose
the best options for your vision and budget. Just tell us what you have in mind, and
we’ll handle the rest.
Call us at 714-228-5420
Or visit us in Buena Park, CA
