Sound Matters offer a simple explanation of half speed mastering as a practice while gaining some more detailed insights from experienced Mastering Engineer, Barry Grint. (Barry’s work includes award-winning artists George Ezra and Tom Walker, plus many classic projects, including Madonna, Prince, Oasis, and many more). The Basics To understand what the term “half speed mastering” means, we must first … Read More
“Twelve Inch” Magnet Vinyl Display Systems in Review
A big part of what draws music fans into the world of vinyl records is the joy of owning the physical product. Music on vinyl is both practical and beautiful, enticing many collectors to display records in their home as art in its own right. Just like a painting, the pieces you choose to display make a statement about you … Read More
Direct-Drive vs Belt-Drive Turntables – What’s the Difference?
When buying your first turntable, or even upgrading your current setup, there are many technical terms and details that cause some confusion for would-be vinyl enthusiasts. At Sound Matters, we present answers to many of these frequently asked questions in a way that cuts through the jargon, getting to the key points you need to know. Today, we tackle the … Read More
Spinning Forward: Record Store Day Observations with Co-Founder, Michael Kurtz
In a recent Sound Matters feature, we asked a cross-section of the industry what Record Store Day (RSD) meant to them. Overwhelmingly, our contributors spoke highly of the RSD, citing the benefit it brings to independent stores and the continued growth in consumer interest for music on wax. The event draws huge crowds each year as people all over the … Read More
What Does Record Store Day Mean to You?
Now in its twelfth year, Record Store Day is one of the most significant dates in the musical calendar. Fans across the globe gather at participating independent shops to discover new releases, watch live performances, and absorb the great atmosphere. The sales numbers are pretty impressive too, with last year’s event helping to shift 733,000 vinyl albums in the US … Read More
Why Do I Need a Phono Preamp for My Turntable?
If you’re new to the world of vinyl records, it may surprise you to learn that you cannot simply plug your turntable into most sound systems, just as you might do with any other piece of audio equipment. If you’ve ever tried plugging your turntable into the input marked as “aux” or “TAPE” on your sound system, you’ll likely notice … Read More
Creative Ways to Display Your Vinyl Records
Besides the great sounds, ritual, and process, a huge part of vinyl’s lasting appeal is undoubtedly the aesthetic. Enthusiasts hail the large format artwork and the sense of satisfaction that comes with physically owning the music you love as just part of the reason why vinyl record sales continue to grow year-on-year. Many album covers are pieces of art in … Read More
Ten Common Vinyl Record Myths Uncovered
The world of HiFi is shrouded in many myths and untruths that continue to trigger debate and controversy. Vinyl records, particularly when considering the mastering and production process, are certainly no exception. To uncover the truth behind an array of common vinyl mastering myths, we discreetly interviewed a mastering engineer who will remain anonymous – lest we unleash an angry … Read More
How Long Will a Record Stylus Last?
Playing vinyl records is a demanding physical process that involves your stylus traveling a great distance. (Around 1,500 feet across each side of an average LP). It’s no easy task. Your stylus will confront, dirt, dust, debris, and even scratches as it traverses miles of grooves over the course of its useable life. Not surprisingly, a stylus needs to be … Read More
GrooveWasher Poster Giveaway
We’re giving away 3 copies of this vibrant poster designed by product design and fabrication artist, Hope Ainsworth. You can check out her work on Instagram, here. Inspired by concert posters of the 60s and 70s, these colorful designs make a great addition to any listening space and look particularly smart when mounted in a nice black frame. The quote … Read More