Before a vinyl record can be created, the master recording must be produced. This is done by first sending the recorded audio signal through an equalizer to adjust the frequency response and then through a limiter to prevent the audio from distorting. The resulting signal is then transferred to a lacquer disc, which is a coated aluminum disc.
Step 2: Lacquer cutting
The lacquer cutting process is done on a lathe. The lacquer disc is placed on the turntable, and a cutting head is positioned over it. The cutting head uses a sharp stylus to cut a groove into the lacquer. As the cutting head moves across the disc, it modulates the groove to represent the audio signal.
Step 3: Electroplating
The lacquer disc is then electroplated to create a metal mold. This is done by immersing the disc in a plating solution and then passing an electric current through it. The metal atoms in the solution are attracted to the lacquer disc and form a thin layer of metal on its surface.
Step 4: Pressing
The metal mold is then used to press the vinyl records. The mold is placed in a press, and a heated plastic compound is forced into it. The plastic takes the shape of the mold, and the result is a vinyl record with grooves that correspond to the audio signal on the lacquer disc.
Step 5: Finishing
The vinyl records are then removed from the press and trimmed. They are then visually inspected for defects, and the labels are applied. The finished records are then packaged and shipped to record stores.