Frequently Asked Questions

Sound is cut as a physical groove into the vinyl and read back mechanically by the needle – no data compression involved. This produces subtle harmonic overtones that the ear perceives as warmth. Vinyl also lacks the loudness optimisation common in digital production, resulting in a more natural, dynamic sound.

The 7" (17.8 cm) spins at 33⅓ rpm and holds around 7 minutes per side – the classic single format, ideal for one or two songs. The 12" (30.5 cm) spins at 33⅓ rpm, offers up to 20 minutes per side, and provides more dynamic range for longer playlists. Both formats are available single sided and double sided.

A 12" side holds around 20 minutes, a 7" side around 7 minutes. For optimal sound quality, we recommend staying within these guidelines.

Yes, significantly. Vinyl makes MP3 compression artefacts audible. We recommend WAV files at minimum CD quality (44.1 kHz / 16 bit). MP3 at 320 kbps is acceptable, as are AAC and M4A.

Pressed records are manufactured in large quantities using a metal stamper. Record Express uses direct cut production: the audio is cut directly into the vinyl disc, with no stamper and no minimum order quantity. For personal playlists and small runs, this is the right technology. The sonic difference in everyday listening is minimal – what matters most is the quality of your audio file.

Every record is individually cut using the lathe-cut process. This makes even micro batches starting at quantity 1 possible. Depending on quantity, we produce in-house or work with specialized production partners who meet our quality standards.

Design your record in the online designer, review the preview and confirm – then production starts. After 3 business days the record is packaged and shipped with a tracking number.

Yes. Your own images for cover and label can be uploaded directly. If you prefer not to design anything, simply choose a colour – the configurator automatically generates a clean single colour layout.

No – production starts immediately after the preview is confirmed. Please check tracks, order, cover and label carefully before confirming.

Yes, audio files are prepared for the vinyl format. You do not need to master your tracks yourself.

Only music for which you hold the necessary rights or which you have legally acquired may be uploaded. Making a personal copy of legally acquired music for private use is permissible in most countries. Legal responsibility for uploaded content lies with the customer.

Yes, volume discounts are available for larger quantities. Details can be found in the online-designer.

As every order is individually manufactured, the right of withdrawal is excluded. It may be possible to cancel the order or change something within the first 12 hours, but we cannot guarantee it. Please connect with us immediately if there is an issue with your order or data in the order. In the event of production defects or damage, we replace free of charge.

Contact us within 30 days of receipt with a photo of the damage – we will arrange a free replacement quickly and without hassle.

Yes, after dispatch you will receive an email with the tracking number.

International shipping duties, taxes, and local carrier handling fees are not covered by Record-Express. The recipient is responsible for any additional charges that may apply upon delivery, depending on the destination country. US orders are 100% tax and duty-free, while shipments to the European Union will usually have addition fees (VAT + local post office fee). Many other international countries are without additional charges. In case a fee does apply, your local postal service may collect it at your doorstep or get informed and pay it online. Record-Express has no control over these government-mandated fees and cannot predict their exact amounts.

Payment is possible by credit card, debit card and other local methods – processed via Stripe.

Estimated business days. Times are regularly updated and may vary.