Summer is fast approaching, and with it comes the promise of fun-filled outdoor parties and memorable gatherings with friends and family. No summer party is complete without a carefully curated summer playlist that sets the mood and gets everyone in the party spirit. To help you create the ultimate summer songs playlist, we’ve put together a list of popular songs and artists that are sure to be a hit at any summer party.
Like any good party playlist, we’ll mix in some current and past hits to make sure everyone has something to groove to…
If you really want to make your summer playlist unique and memorable, why not create a custom vinyl record? A custom vinyl record allows you to create a playlist of your own, featuring all your favorite summer songs. With Freestyle Vinyl, you can create a custom vinyl record that is unique to you and your summer party. Don’t let mixes and playlists stay only on your phone – enjoy the best of digital personalizations and classic vinyl sound!
We didn’t even scratch the surface of summer party tunes here; there are countless summer songs that are sure to be a hit at any party. Whether you prefer the latest chart-topping hits or classic summer anthems, there is a song out there that is perfect for your summer playlist. And if you really want to take your summer playlist to the next level with a custom vinyl record mixtape, we here at Freestyle Vinyl would love to help you make it happen!
Those who want to experience music in its full-color, tangible form turn to the most authentic music-listening experience: vinyl. People who consider themselves vinyl aficionados may have their own lists of what they perceive to be the coolest looking vinyl records, but here at Freestyle Vinyl, we do as well. Take a look at some of our favorite cool looking vinyl records if you’re looking to add to your collection today.
The vinyl edition of Radiohead's 2011 album “The King of Limbs” had its own newspaper. The paper was 30% recyclable, and the two 10" clear vinyl discs were accompanied by a blotting sheet with 625 miniature art works.
Superfood's debut LP on vinyl is as dazzling, joyful, and wacky as the Birmingham band themselves. The record is vivid, pillar box red, and the sleeve is made of mirrored foil.
Sure, we knew it might get cold in Scandinavia, but we had no idea it could be so frigid that people were producing records out of ice. Only a select few copies of the Swedish band's 2012 single “Blue Ice” were made available, and fans had to build the ice recordings at home using water and a freezer, but they were completely playable.
Cosmologist Carl Sagan died in 1996, but that didn't stop Third Man from releasing this stunning 'cosmos' colored vinyl to commemorate his 75th birthday. “A Glorious Dawn” was released with an etched reproduction of the spacecraft- Voyager on its cover.
Mondo published the original Jurassic Park score on dilophosaurus-patterned vinyl on the film's 21st birthday. Try getting your hands on one of these rare vinyl releases.
Karen Elson's debut album was not only peach-colored, but also peach-scented, as she was a model turned gothic country singer. Try to get the best matching scented candle to create a soothing ambience.
Karen isn't the only one who has had the honor of owning a ponging vinyl. To commemorate the famous film's 30th anniversary, the theme was originally published on glow-in-the-dark vinyl, just in time for Halloween 2014, stinking of the Stay Puft Marshmallow Man.
Jack White's second solo album had a diverse collection of songs. The 'Ultra' vinyl edition had an angel holograph, locked grooves, and electric and acoustic intros at multiple points of dropping the needle. It's no surprise that it was the best-selling vinyl record of 2014.
When The Dead Weather's “Blue Blood Blues” was released in 2010, fans were presented with a 7" record tucked inside of a 12" record, requiring them to cut one out of the other if they wanted to hear the entire thing.
Of the many cool looking vinyl records, this one is pretty special! In 2014, 300 copies of Perfect Pussy's debut album, infused with the blood of singer Meredith Graves were released. This one is definitely not for the faint-hearted.
All of the records listed above feature some of the most innovative designs around, but the coolest looking vinyl record album you’ll find is the one you make yourself. At Freestyle Vinyl, we offer artists, music lovers, and gift givers alike the chance to make their own custom vinyl record jackets. Use original artwork, a photograph, a graphic design, or something else entirely. Make your record a reflection of how the music makes you feel.
Learn how to make your own cool looking vinyl record with custom designs. For more information, feel free to contact us at Freestyle Vinyl today.
So, you've finally purchased a turntable. You're sitting at home, headphones plugged into your sound system, but you've already played the one and only record you have more than ten times. It's at this point that you’ve realized it’s time to grow your record collection.
Classic vinyl records hold a special place in the world of music. This authentic listening experience simply cannot be replicated by streaming services. If you’re interested in doing a deep dive into the most unique vinyl records, you’ve come to the right place.
And while there are plenty of pre-made records you can buy, something new and different could be creating your very own unique vinyl records! With Freestyle VInyl, your record collection can boast not only the coolest mass-produced records, but also custom vinyl records that no one else in the world can own.
Whether the vinyl is custom-made or mass-produced, let’s check out the list below and have fun listening!
Pink Floyd's “Dark Side of the Moon” is an essential addition to any record collection. Not only does it have music about every facet of life (time, money, death, love, etc.), but you can also listen to it while watching The Wizard of Oz – what we term as synchronicity. Dark Side remained on the Billboard top 200 chart for 15 years after its release, a record that has yet to be broken. As an album, Dark Side evolves brilliantly, delving into subjects that everyone faces and creating a story in a way that few other recordings have been able to match.
“Thriller” is the best-selling album of all time, having sold over 30 million copies in the United States alone. That's 30 platinum certifications! MJ's movie-like music videos quickly became part of MTV's regular rotation, further solidifying this album's legendary status. Thriller is consistently regarded among the greatest albums of all time, and it is a must-have for any record collection, large or small.
“Legend” is a best-of collection, making it an excellent place to kick start learning about the beginnings of reggae and its many related genres. It's the kind of music that makes you feel good, and people seem to agree: it's the best-selling reggae record of all time. So, get up, stand up and go to the nearest record store to get a copy of Legend.
Get yourself a copy of “Revolver” as your first Beatles record. It marks a significant shift in the Beatles' music, signaling their transition from the "British Invasion" pop-rock of their initial years to the non-stop experimental tour-de-force that they became. While songs like 'Eleanor Rigby' and 'Tomorrow Never Knows' showcase the Beatles' songwriting prowess, pieces like 'Tomorrow Never Knows' and 'I'm Only Sleeping' also included revolutionary recording techniques including tape loops, double-tracked vocals, and even reversed guitar sounds.
The most unique vinyl record you’ll find is the one you make yourself. Whether that is through a mix of your favorite songs or your own voice recordings, creating a vinyl record with Freestyle Vinyl offers you the opportunity to make something no one else has. Include your favorite songs and listen to the music that speaks to you in the most genuine way possible.
Give yourself or the music lover in your life the listening experience you all deserve with custom vinyl records from Freestyle Vinyl. Learn how to put your favorite playlists on vinyl when you explore what we have to offer today!
To many people, classical music is an all-encompassing genre of instrumental music that includes works by numerous composers, including Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, Debussy, and others. To others who want to get specific, on the other hand, the term actually refers to music created between the years 1750 and 1830 in the “European tradition”.
Do you know someone who enjoys classical music? This post shares 5 gifts for classical music lovers in general.
Tickets to a classical music concert are definitely top of the list. You must be certain of their favorite musicians, bands, and tracks. However, the majority of classical music enthusiasts will be eager to attend either an orchestra concert or a piano solo concert (or a combination of both!). If you are going to accompany them as well, they would enjoy it even more.
Orchestra music makes up a sizable portion of classical music, which is not only restricted to one instrument. This puzzle is so awesome if you're looking for a gift for someone who loves orchestra music or plays in one. It is a 1,000+ piece puzzle that includes each orchestral instrument. It features several different instruments, such as the piano, harp, viola, cello, violin, trombone, and clarinet. This is fantastic for folks who play a variety of musical instruments, provided they also enjoy puzzles.
The music-lover in your life will be absolutely floored by your efforts with this one. A custom vinyl record is an incredibly special way to bring your music-loving loved one a completely unique, special audio experience. Classical music lovers tend to appreciate, well, something classic! There’s nothing more genuine and real than listening to music on vinyl. Putting together a playlist of the gift recipient’s favorite classical songs will show them that you know what’s important to them and you’ve gone to great lengths to make it a reality. The secret is that while this gift for your classical music lover will look like it took a lot of effort, it will actually be super easy with Freestyle Vinyl.
A metronome is a beautiful gift for a classical musician. Any dedicated musician will undoubtedly enjoy it even though it is on the pricey side. It has a high-quality polish and is usually made of mahogany brown wood.
Last but not the least, when you are considering buying gifts for classical music lovers, have a look at sheet music notebook. This is fantastic for classical music fans who enjoy creating their own scores. It can be difficult to find sheet music and this book's metal binding ensures that it will remain open on a music stand or piano.
Additionally, you can also gift your loved ones T-shirts, coffee mugs, or casual cushions custom printed with their favorite musician’s photos or lyrics from their favorite tracks. Getting their biographies is also an excellent idea.
Gifts for classical music lovers can be so many things, including concert tickets, soundtracks, and even novelty items! As is the case with giving any gift, make sure you are buying for the right person and that you know what they love to listen to.
Making your own custom vinyl record can be a unique and creative way to bring authenticity back into the music listening experience. Creating your own playlist and putting it on vinyl is easier than ever with Freestyle Vinyl. While you’re at it, why not make your very own custom vinyl record jacket – either to go along with your record, or on its own? Use your own artwork, favorite photo, or find inspiration on the web. Bring in themes from the songs on your playlist or commemorate a special occasion with a photo. Whatever you choose, you can’t go wrong with something that speaks to you. Need some inspiration? Here are 5 ideas to get you started when making your own custom vinyl record jacket.
If you consider yourself a creative at heart and enjoy making your own designs, now is the perfect opportunity to showcase that on your vinyl record jacket. Hand sketches, drawings, paintings, and any other medium of art that can be printed and uploaded in a digital format could make for a fantastic back jacket for your custom vinyl. When thinking of what you want the artwork to be, consider the theme of the songs and the playlist on your record. Are the songs melancholy or joyous? Do they focus on a word, concept, or idea? This could serve as inspiration for the artwork you create and choose to display.
Artists come in many different forms nowadays. Graphic design is its own form of original artwork, just in a more digital manner. People with an eye for detail may want to make their own custom vinyl record jackets with graphic design. Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator can be great, but there are also tons of other platforms that allow you to play around with features and designs. Consider Canva, Visme, Crello, and Design Wizard among many others.
Another way to customize your vinyl record jacket is to make a collage of pictures. This could be based around images on the theme of the playlist or a mashup of special pictures and special moments that have inspired the playlist.
There’s nothing more special than having a meaningful photograph as the jacket of your custom vinyl record. Whether you’re giving the vinyl to someone as a gift or making it for yourself, personalizing the jacket with a photo can make its creation even more unique. The photograph could be of you and your loved ones, but it could also be of a location that holds a special place in your heart, a pastime, or even a landscape.
For some people, less is truly more. Letting the music speak for itself and keeping the vinyl record jacket plain and simple may be the way to go in this case. Choose one color and perhaps add your name or the title of the record – and that’s it!
For additional information on vinyl jackets from Freestyle Vinyl, head over to the FAQ section of our website. We cover it all in depth so you’ll know exactly what to expect when making your own custom vinyl record jacket.
Have any questions? Need additional answers? We’re here for you. Contact us today and we’ll help you turn your favorite songs into a custom vinyl you’ll love.
There are many great gifts that can be given to music aficionados, especially those that enjoy vinyl! These range from storage and cleaning solutions to exciting accessories, which are just a few of the best gifts for music lovers that can be given for holidays, birthdays, anniversaries, and other special events.
When creating a personalized vinyl record, you want to select a theme. By doing so, you’ll have a generalized framework that will help you determine whether or not a song is a good fit. Themes can be formed based on titles, moods, or an idea. However, the project should still manifest variation in terms of texture, tempo, and mood. For instance, you may want a song list that incorporates upbeat tracks, ballads, and stripped down arrangements. You may also think of this as the record’s brand: the personality, story, musical style, and the core values it represents.
Vinyl records are already distinct from other formats, including CD, tapes, digital playlists, etc. With large format artwork and the unique experience of playing audio via a turntable and record, you are guaranteed a differentiated listening experience with vinyl.
And your custom vinyl record is even more unique than a simple vinyl! With your own selected playlist, custom art that is 100% yours, and personalized choices down to the color of the vinyl itself, you get to personalize a musical gift like no other product on the planet.
Vinyl records can be completely personalized. You can design stunning cover art that will capture the attention of all who see it and that will make them want to listen to it, even if they’ve never heard the music before. It provides many of the same benefits as a family photo album; except it relies on sound rather than photos. Unlike an MP3, it can be held in your hand and prominently displayed in a location where everyone can see it.
Create memories that you and your loved one(s) can return to time and time again for a reminder of the music and the art that brings you together.
Our vinyl recordings produce a lovely analog sound that rings true to the music you know and love. Freestyle Vinyl provides the greatest amount of personalization possible in the music world – custom made for you and your loved ones! Simply put, there is no better gift for the music lover in your life than a personal vinyl record – their own Freestyle Vinyl!
To learn more about our best gifts for music lovers, contact us today!
Recent times have seen a huge chunk of music fans and collectors renewing their interest in vinyl records. With so many people both young and old turning to physical music formats, it's no wonder records are making a comeback. For many years, records have hugely been overshadowed by advanced digital music formats but recent years have seen their popularity begin to grow. So why are vinyl records coming back? Read on as we try to find out why vinyl records are making a remarkable comeback in the music scene.
A lot of people prefer vinyl records as they have a higher degree of “realness” and authenticity when compared to digital music formats. Most modern-day music is of course consumed through digital downloads and streaming services (listening to your phone while commuting or working out is a major victory of the modern life!). However, vinyl records offer an uncommon connection to music in a manner that is meaningful.
Moreover, you get to connect more with the music on the records as they require regular care and maintenance. You have to store and clean them from time to time and prepare them before placing them on the record player’s needle for listening. We would argue that a deeper connection is made through the real and tactile experience that comes from connecting with – and taking care of – your music in real terms.
Digital formats may be light and portable – and endless in their selection – but they do not offer the tangibility that vinyl records offer. Music enthusiasts and collectors are turning to vinyl records as they are the best of the physical media. A major reason for being the “best of the physical” is that they are the best to keep on display! With large format artwork and inserts (e.g. liner notes), records provide a physical entity that music lovers can hold, feel and admire, in stark contrast to digital formats and smaller physical media (e.g. tapes, CDs).
Vinyl records are making a comeback thanks to the unique listening experience that they provide. The warm and rich sound they produce cannot be matched by even the most advanced digital formats like CDs and MP3s. That is why the quality of music produced by vinyl records is often perceived to be more organic as compared to what digital music sources produce. In short, vinyl records turn the 1s and 0s of the digital landscape into a real, tactile, well-rounded audio experience.
Another reason why the popularity of vinyl records is gaining traction is the emergence of the indie music scene. Independent labels and musicians are drawn to vinyl records as a means to distribute and popularize their music. The best thing about vinyl records is that they offer a remarkable physical format allowing independent labels and musicians to come up with products that are memorable and unique.
Creating exceptional products with the help of vinyl records makes it easy for them to stand out against their competitors in an overly crowded market. The renewed interest in music has made many independent records thrive and enjoy musical success.
Vinyl records have been with us for over a century now and they are now proving to be timeless. It is the warmth and the depth of sound that they offer – as well as the undeniable ‘cool’ factor with large format artwork – which is drawing both older and younger people to them and driving their popularity through the roof.
Even so, one of the attributes that you should be careful about when creating a personalized record is the length of your vinyl record’s audio. A vinyl record does carry a maximum length and trade-offs with quality and sound types if you go longer than the recommended length. Our article looks to provide an in-depth analysis of the appropriate length of a vinyl record.
Ideally, the maximum length of vinyl records is anchored on the physical dimension or size of the vinyl disc. Similarly, the optimal length of the vinyl depends on the groove spacing needed for a particular audio content. A typical vinyl record is characterized by a diameter of about 12 inches. Such a model can safely hold up to 22 minutes of audio on either side. A standard vinyl record's grooves are spaced far apart in order to mitigate the risk of the grooves interfering with each other (which create the skips and loops that plague older, worn down vinyl records).
If you plan to come up with a personalized vinyl record, it is crucial to remember that the optimal length of the record is dependent on the disc size. For instance, if a vinyl record is 7 inches in diameter then it can hold a maximum of approximately 6 minutes of audio on either side. On the other hand, if the record is 10 inches in diameter, then it accommodates up to 12 minutes of audio on either side. Nevertheless, the numbers we have highlighted are not constant and may change depending on the kind of mastering as well as the process used by the manufacturer to press (or cut) it.
Beyond physical specifications, there are several technical considerations to look at when creating a personalized vinyl record. At the top of the list is the mastering process which determines the width and depth of the record’s groove. On the same note, the audio content of the vinyl record should be optimized for its playback.
In other words, the audio should be mastered and mixed in a way that conforms to the specifications of the vinyl. The type of vinyl being utilized also matters. Of course, there is a wide range of vinyl formulations with each one holding exceptional properties. The ideal vinyl formulation should be chosen for better sound quality and added durability.
At Freestyle Vinyl, we are experts at ensuring your audio is correctly mastered as part of the lathe-cutting process, ensuring that – at whatever size vinyl record you choose – we do not push past your optimal length, ensuring both high sound quality and the maximum amount of audio possible.
12-inch vinyl records have been around for nearly a century now and are synonymous with the music industry. They are an exceptional kind of phonograph featuring a diameter of exactly 12 inches. As you can tell, the name is drawn from the diameter of these vinyl records, which are designed to hold music on two sides. Referred to as Long-Playing Records (or LPs for short), these records are ingeniously crafted from vinyl and can hold as much as 22 minutes of music on either side.
Vinyl 12-inch records were first popularized by Columbia Records back in 1948. Originally the brainchild of engineer Peter Carl Goldmark, vinyl records soon became a favorite format for musical albums. Until the compact disc was invented in the 80s, 12-inch vinyl records were the most common for all recorded audio files or music. One of the attributes that stood out about these vinyl records was a relatively longer playtime coupled with improved sound quality as compared to the 7-inch or the 10-inch record counterparts that were developed earlier on. Apart from that, the 12-inch records made it possible to package the albums more attractively and also make the artwork a lot more impressive. Generally, the improved record took the album experience to the next level.
Looking to purchase some 12-inch vinyl records? Here’s what you may expect!
Sound quality is perhaps the biggest advantage of the 12-inch vinyl record over digital and other analog forms of audio. They are designed from unique vinyl material that gives them a natural and warm sound. Not even modern-day digital formats such as MP3s and CDs can compare to the outstanding warmth and sound quality provided by the records. Other than that, the records come with a wide dynamic range. That implies that they can effortlessly handle sounds that are either softer or louder in a much better way than advanced digital formats. In other words, they offer a richer audio or music-listening encounter.
Vinyl records provide unbeatable durability. CDs can scratch, and MP3s may be corrupted. With careful handling and proper storage, however, vinyl records can last just as long as – if not longer – than other audio formats.
In the past, a vinyl record may have been played thousands of times, potentially resulting in scratches or other breakdowns in the physical medium. However, the method of listening to music has changed with the times. Most audio is listened to in digital formats (e.g. streaming), while the vinyl record is played more on a special, rare occasion. With a reduced overall number of plays thanks to the combination of vinyl + digital audio experiences, a vinyl record can now last longer than ever!
Listening to music from vinyl records guarantees a high quality, clear sound. In addition to a high standard of sound quality, you can also enjoy uncommon longevity. Combining all these wonderful elements grants you a unique listening experience. Records are also visually and aesthetically appealing as they often feature album art. In addition, digital formats do not allow you the tactile experience of loading the record on a record player, setting the tone arm, and physically experiencing your music.
Despite the advent of digital formats, vinyl records are still very relevant and, in fact, are making a resurgence as the desire for physical media increases once again. Sales volume for 12-inch vinyl records is gradually gaining momentum as Millennials and younger listeners begin to appreciate the exceptional listening experience they offer. Even though they aren't as portable or convenient as their digital counterparts, their sound quality and durability are unsurpassed. Vinyl records certainly hold an enchantment and special qualities for music collectors and lovers.
Whether you're a seasoned vinyl head or a newly-initiated enthusiast, there is no shortage of things available to enhance your experience of collecting and listening to records. We've chosen the best gifts for vinyl record lovers across a range of price points, from stocking stuffers like headphone jacks and stylus cleaners to larger presents like record bags and speakers. The music fan in your life will surely like these gems!
This is the ultimate gift for the record collector in your life. Fill up a 12” custom vinyl record with songs that remind you of your gift recipient, or a list of tracks that you just know they will love! This personalized gift is both thoughtful and a very fitting piece to add to their beloved collection.
Show those 7" vinyl records some love in your life! With the help of this practical adaptor, you may play a dinked 7" record on a regular turntable. It's the ideal little yet mighty present because it's always missing and always required.
The headphone jack is a necessary component for DJ setups as well as private home listening. It’s one of those incredibly helpful products that is incredibly easy to lose and you can never have too many of.
Carbon fibers are used in vinyl brushes to reduce static charges while eliminating dust and other small particles that could impair the sound quality of your record, and prevent damage to your needle. It's an essential piece for any vinyl collector.
With the help of this stroboscopic disc, you can precisely calibrate the rotational speed of your turntable. On the other hand, convenient cartridge alignment indications will help you to ensure that all turntable appendages are in excellent condition.
A clean and smooth-running record is one that lets your stylus move smoothly across its surface like an Olympic figure skater. This is particularly crucial if you're purchasing used records, as a clean record guarantees that your needles will last longer and not be damaged from excessive dust, dirt, and muck buildup. Purchase a sound cleaning package for both dry and wet cleaning for the record collector in your life. A good set should include items like record cleaner fluid, lint-free cloths. anti-static brush, and a pick-up brush for your stylus.
Place yourself in front of these, close your eyes, and recall what concerts were like in a previous life, discovering new facets of your favorite music in the process. Wireless speakers can integrate into your analog set-up and offer a mighty sound. Ideally suited for highs and mids, improve the setup even further by including subwoofers to guarantee that the low-end is covered.
A vinyl bag made specially to carry these fragile pieces is especially useful if they’re intending to share a few pieces of their collection with friends at a gathering.
From groovy and thoughtful custom vinyl records to practical tools like brush cleaners and adapters, the items on this list are bound to please any record lover in your life!
Saying that vinyl is having a moment would obviously ignore the fact that it has experienced a great deal of moments in the preceding seven decades. However, it can't be denied that over the past few years, we've all spent more time at home nesting, honing our setups for listening to vinyl records, and savoring the experience of kicking back and just listening.
While vinyl has always been the best way to listen to an album, a custom vinyl record now makes it possible to have the best of both worlds – the listening experience of a vinyl and the customization and personalization that digital music ushered into the world in the 2000s.
Making a personalized record enables you to create a priceless keepsake for yourself or a loved one, with your own hand-picked playlist. This is, of course, a nice bonus to enjoying the vinyl experience (and sound quality) that you’ll always get with a regular vinyl record. If you’re looking to customize a vinyl record, look no further than Freestyle Vinyl.
Established in 2017, Freestyle Vinyl has specialized in making customized vinyl records of various sizes. We’ve made it our top priority to produce music in its most authentic form—on high-fidelity vinyl.
For 6 years, we’ve been committed to achieving that objective. From our Chicago headquarters workshop, over 50,000 personalized vinyl records have been hand-cut and hand-made by us for our awesome customers. You can count on us to bring your favorite tracks to life with our first-rate custom record making and cutting services!
Thanks to our various record types and sizes, you can include as many or as few songs as you’d like. If you are looking for a full LP experience, we’d recommend going with our 12" custom vinyl records, which allow you to fit up to 22 minutes of music on one side.
If you want to share a special song with someone, you can also choose to include a single song on our 7" single custom vinyl records, designed to hold 6 minutes per side (Side A only or Side A + B available). We also have a 10” picture disc available, an uber-personalized option that allows for about 12 minutes of music on one side plus your favorite photo on the vinyl itself.
Once you've chosen the songs you want to include on your custom vinyl, you can upload the mp3 files directly onto our system, or input the artists and song names if you do not have the files. It’s that simple! As the record is fully customizable, you can also choose to include voice memos, which add a personal touch that is perfect if you intend to send it as a gift.
Once you've finished creating that personal playlist, you can also choose to get a custom jacket for your 12” record. This can be anything, from a picture of you and your loved ones, to an artwork you’ve made. Otherwise, you can always choose from one of our stylish pre-made designs and check out!
Then, all that’s left to do is kick back, relax, and wait for your one-of-a-kind record to be made and dispatched (which should take 1-3 weeks).
Vinyl is still making a comeback, and is the most popular physical media once again, beating out tapes and CDs decades after being replaced by them. The allure of analog audio fidelity is one reason. Another is the large artwork on the album covers. For many reasons, vinyl seems to create passionate collectors the world over – including those who funnel that passion into actually creating the vinyl itself!
Japanese designer Yuri Suzuki has teamed up with magazine publisher Gakken to develop a DIY record cutting machine to make lo-fi, personal vinyl at home. While it isn't as convenient (nor as high quality) as getting a custom record made for you from a professional lathe operator like Freestyle Vinyl, it's still a pretty nifty tool for vinyl record fanatics. Here's everything you need to know about the vinyl record cutter!
The construction of the device, which can playback and cut 5-inch vinyl records, takes roughly one hour. Users have the option of 33 RPM or 45 RPM and can input audio via USB or from anything they can plug a 3.5mm auxiliary cable into. Therefore, a recent flagship phone is not recommended unless the user has the necessary adapter. The 33 RPM option will offer about four minutes of audio on each side, while the 45 RPM option will offer about three.
The device's interface was created at Suzuki's studio, and the actual manufacturing was handled by publisher Gakken. The device was initially sold in conjunction with its Adult Science Magazine Series under the name "Toy Record Maker." It arrived with a print magazine that described the design process and the operation of the vinyl cutting.
Seven years have passed since Suzuki and Gakken first discussed how to create and disseminate easily accessible and inexpensive DIY musical instruments. We're not sure how they ended up producing an "assemble-at-home record cutter," but we're not mad about it.
Customer reviews on Amazon Japan suggest the process is very hit and miss, and urge others looking to purchase this to get the version with the extra blanks to allow for some trial and error. This is obviously not the way to go if you want to produce records that are of commercial-grade or if you want to have control over the aesthetics of the record itself. Getting a custom made picture disc would be the way to go in that case. However, if you're searching for a special present for a friend or relative who enjoys crate-digging, this might be a cool choice. Even if music isn't your thing, you can always record a voice message for any special occasion or as a fancy season's greeting.
While a ~$150 lo-fi vinyl record cutter is a neat toy, we ultimately prefer our records to be high quality listening experiences. In that vein, we recommend going with Freestyle Vinyl’s excellent custom record service. To date, we’ve cut over 50,000 records for our customers. With our easy-to-use platform, you can simply input the tracks into our system, and we’ll master, cut, and create a vinyl record with your playlist. Our 12” vinyl records even allow you to fit up to 22 minutes of music on each side.
All that’s left to do afterwards is kick back, relax, and await the arrival of your one-of-a-kind record!
