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Vinyl Pressing Services

Excellence in Every Vinyl Pressing

At AudioWax, we provide high-quality vinyl pressing services for independent artists, record labels and music professionals worldwide. From our vinyl pressing plant in Porto, Portugal, we combine experienced production with a close, hands-on approach to every project, from audio preparation and vinyl manufacturing to custom colours, special effects and packaging.

We work with clients across Europe and around the world, delivering carefully manufactured vinyl records while remaining committed to more sustainable production practices, including energy-efficient processes, clean vinyl recycling and recyclable shipping materials.

Explore Vinyl Pressing

Explore Vinyl Packaging

  • Center Label
  • Inner Sleeve
    (Antistatic, Carton or Paper)
  • Cover
    (Standard, Gatefold or Custom)
  • Insert
    (Single or Poster)
  • Booklet
    (Offset Printing or Digital Printing)
  • Outer Sleeve Protection
  • OBI
    (Japonese or Bandarole)

Explore Extras

  • Stickers
  • Barcode
  • Download Cards

Our Process

Discover how we make vinyl records at AudioWax, from project preparation and test pressings to vinyl pressing, packaging and final delivery. Every stage is carefully coordinated to ensure consistent quality from the first test pressing to the finished record.

Lacquer Mastering

The pressing process begins with lacquer mastering, where quality takes centre stage. Our experienced engineers use a Neumann VMS-70 cutting lathe to etch the grooves of the record onto an aluminium disc coated in soft lacquer, set at either 33 ⅓ rpm or 45 rpm. We work exclusively with professional-grade equipment to ensure flawless results, delivering optimised loudness levels and outstanding dynamics.

Cutting

The cutting process in vinyl production involves engraving the grooves that store the audio onto a disc. A vibratory stylus precisely carves these grooves, adjusting their depth and spacing to ensure optimal sound fidelity. Following a rigorous inspection to eliminate imperfections, this master is used to create metal moulds for the final pressing of vinyl records.

Electroplating

Once the lacquers for each side of the record are cut, they are carefully processed, sprayed with liquid silver, and nickel-plated to create the stampers used for pressing records. After processing, a set of stampers is used to produce test pressings before moving to full-scale production.

Test pressing

Before starting full-scale production, we conduct a small test run to verify the quality of the cut and the production metal. Once these tests successfully pass through our audio quality control department, a set of five test pressings per record is sent to customers for approval. Reviewing multiple test pressings ensures the audio quality remains consistent across all records.

Project Approval

After reviewing the test pressings, we kindly ask that you share your feedback regarding their technical conformity, preferably via email. Once we have this information, we will proceed with planning the production of the records, ensuring full compliance with all specifications outlined in the order.

Vinyl Pressing

Record manufacturing is a meticulous process that requires exceptional care and attention to detail at every stage. This includes fine-tuning the presses to meet the specific requirements of each order, as well as conducting rigorous inspections by our audio and visual quality control teams. Only records of the highest quality are passed for final assembly.

Packaging

Once the pressing process and quality control checks are complete, the records proceed to the packaging line for final assembly. Here, our team carefully collates each individual unit according to the order specifications, ensuring precision and attention to detail at every step.

Logistics

Delays and mishandled goods are never acceptable. Our logistics department is dedicated to ensuring your vinyl records are delivered safely and punctually to the agreed-upon destination. Precision is at the heart of everything we do.

Vinyl Pressing FAQ

Where can I press vinyl records in Portugal?

Audiowax is a vinyl pressing plant based in Maia, in the Porto region of Portugal. We produce records for artists, labels and independent projects in Portugal and worldwide, supporting each project from preparation through to final packaging.

The price depends on quantity, format, record weight, colour, special effects, packaging, inserts, finishes and other extras. The quickest way to get an estimate is to use our online calculator and request a personalised quote.

The minimum quantity depends on the project configuration and the options selected. We can assess small and medium runs and recommend the most suitable solution for your objectives and budget.

Production time depends on the project configuration, approval of materials, test pressings, packaging and the current production schedule. Each project is followed individually so clients know which stage their production is in.

Yes. We offer a wide range of vinyl colours and special effects, including customised combinations. Availability may vary depending on the project and the visual result you want to achieve.

Yes. We can provide different packaging solutions, including covers, labels, inner sleeves, inserts, booklets and other finishing options, allowing the record and packaging to be coordinated within the same project.

Yes. Audiowax welcomes clients who would like to visit the factory and see the production process first-hand. Our facility is located in Maia, in the Porto region of Portugal.

Yes. We work with artists, bands, labels and independent projects of different sizes, adapting each production to the technical, creative and budget requirements of each client.