Vinyl is winning over independent artists, bands and labels again. As much a collector's item as a listening format, it lets you offer fans a physical edition that truly showcases a music project.
Hurricane Entertainment supports artists in creating custom vinyl records, from file preparation to delivery of the finished product.
7 or 12-inch vinyl?
A 7-inch record is smaller and usually holds one song per side. It is the format commonly used for singles.
A 12-inch record offers a longer recording time. It is better suited to albums or projects with several tracks.
The maximum running time also depends on the playback speed. To preserve the best sound quality, it is generally recommended not to exceed 18 to 22 minutes per side.
Discover what our custom vinyl pressing service can offer.
Prepare the audio files carefully
Vinyl has different constraints from CD and streaming. Excessive bass, harsh highs or too long a running time per side can affect the result.
We recommend supplying uncompressed files, such as WAV, and having the master checked before production.
A vinyl-specific mastering is advised to optimise the sound quality of the record. The manufacturing process then includes preparing the master, cutting the groove, making the stampers, pressing, printing the sleeves and final assembly.
Personalise the record and its sleeve
The sleeve turns the record into a true collector's item. It can be personalised with your artwork, credits, lyrics or information about the project.
The record itself can also be personalised with labels printed on sides A and B, different colours, inserts or booklets.
Discover the custom sleeve printing solutions offered by Hurricane Entertainment.
Follow the artwork guidelines
For professional printing, the artwork files must follow several technical rules:
- use CMYK colour mode;
- allow a resolution of 300 dpi;
- respect the bleed and safety margins;
- supply the artwork as a PDF;
- use the template for the product ordered.
You can download the templates for 7-inch and 12-inch records and gatefold sleeves to prepare your artwork properly.
If needed, the graphic design team can help you prepare, check or correct your files.
Plan ahead for production times
Making a vinyl record can take from a few weeks to several months, depending on the complexity of the project and the details of the order. It is therefore important to allow enough time before the planned release date.
Launch your vinyl project
A small vinyl run brings your music to life on an authentic, personalised format. By choosing the right format and carefully preparing the audio and artwork files, you will get a record that is true to your world.
Discover our vinyl manufacturing and pressing service or request a personalised quote.
