What is the best audio format for vinyl?
24 bit 96kHz WAV or AIFF format file is the vinyl pre-master standard. Other file resolutions are acceptable, down to CD quality audio, 16 bit 44.1kHz. File resolution should be the highest available, but should not be converted up to a higher resolution. MP3 audio is not a suitable source for vinyl production.
How loud should vinyl be?
You should be recording no louder than -6 db. Rule of thumb is between -12 and -6 db always. Recording at -4 Is going to cause you serious headroom problems when you go to master.
How loud should you master for vinyl?
A quieter, more dynamic master will work in your favor. The cutting engineer can still give you a loud cut, but allowing to control that loudness is essential to creating a good record. We recommend a level of -10 to -12 db RMS and leave a few decibels of headroom.
Can vinyl sound as good as digital?
Digital files allow for over 90dB of difference between the loudest and softest sounds, compared to vinyl’s 70dB dynamic range.
What causes vinyl crackle?
Dust and dirt lodged in the record grooves act as an obstacle for your turntable’s stylus, and when the stylus hits one of these microscopic particles it will jump and create that popping sound associated with crackle. Static build-up on the record is another very common cause of crackle.
What bitrate is vinyl?
Vinyl can contain signals up to 25 kHz (but higher values are reported) so 44.1 kHz is probably a bit at the low site.
Does bass sound better on vinyl?
One of the often overlooked facts about LP reproduction is that some people prefer it because it introduces distortion. The “warmth” that many people associate with LPs can generally be described as a bass sound that is less accurate.
What DB should final mastering?
How loud should your master be? Shoot for about -23 LUFS for a mix, or -6db on an analog meter. For mastering, -14 LUFS is the best level for streaming, as it will fit the loudness targets for the majority of streaming sources. With these targets, you’re good to go!
How do you EQ vinyl?
How to Master for Vinyl
- Using a mid-side equalizer, attenuate the side image up to 150Hz.
- Using this same equalizer, subtly attenuate sibilance-based frequencies.
- Use compression to control any excessive dynamics.
- Gently introduce low-level compression.
- Avoid any psychoacoustic stereo-imaging.
Is vinyl sound quality better than CD?
Sound Quality From a technical standpoint, digital CD audio quality is clearly superior to vinyl. CDs have a better signal-to-noise ratio (i.e. there is less interference from hissing, turntable rumble, etc.), better stereo channel separation, and have no variation in playback speed.