Playback Notes:
Lathe cut records are cut manually, meaning the drop of the cutting needle is done by hand. This means that auto-players will not always track the beginning grooves. I'd highly suggest manually placing the tonearm in the groove. For the same reason, my records are not guaranteed to work with all jukeboxes, auto-return players, or turntables with cheap non-weighted arms.
What is the difference between HIFI and LOFI?
My HIFI cuts are made on two Vinyl Recorder systems, the cuts are stereo, high frequency range (30hz-15kHz+), with very low surface noise. These are nearly comparable to pressed records with a properly prepared master. My LOFI cuts are embossed on a 1940s era Presto 6N with Olson cutting head. While great for the time, the cuts are mono, frequency response is limited (40hz-12kHz), with an amount of surface noise. I highly suggest a test cut if you’re going the LOFI route.
Also listen here to some examples: www.audiogeography.com/audiosamples
How do these records sound?
LOFI: The records I make are mono, and 'embossed' onto plastic in real time. They are not the same as pressed vinyl records. There is an amount of surface noise on these records, similar to that of an old, dirty record. Each song has the opportunity to cut really well, or really poorly. I do what I can to optimize the system for each track, though some tracks come out better than others. Please note that these records are mono, and any intense stereo imaging will not translate well. Check the mono compatibility of your tracks before sending. I recommend requesting a test cut of your material before making an order, especially if you've never heard a lathe cut record before.
HIFI: the HIFI cuts are near the quality of pressed records. They're stereo, extended frequency response, and comparatively low noise. Give a listen to the sample page, or request a HIFI test if you're interested.
My record sounds really quiet, what gives?
Volume on a physical record is determined by a number of factors. The short answer is, if your side is longer than 4-5 minutes (7in), I won't be able to cut it as loud. Similarly, bass heavy recordings, and those with heavy sibilant sounds restrict the headroom available to make a cut with minimal distortion. I always err on the side of quality cut vs loudness.
How long do they last?
Lathe cut records should last as long as pressed records, I've played certain lathe cuts around 100 times with no degradation. That being said, they are no less susceptible to collecting dust, scratches and dings. Treat your records well!
Are the edges smooth?
Yes, they are smooth. I round the edges with a de-burring tool for plastic.
My record sounds heavily distorted, and barely intelligible, what's wrong?
Sometimes with lathe cut records, the playback needle isn't sitting right in the groove. If your record is sounding overly distorted, and it's impossible to make out any musical elements, give your playback needle a little nudge to sit down properly in the groove. This is a common occurrence, and there is nothing wrong with your record. Increased tracking weight normally helps with distortion problems, and the needle sits in the groove more readily.
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A collaborative release, with Andrew Deutsch taking on processing and edits of Stephen Vitiello's raw tracks. Not sure where it falls, not folktronic and sometimes lyrical (without lyrics of course)....
credits
released July 26, 2024
Stephen Vitiello, banjo and electronics
Andrew Deutsch, digital compositing
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