Process

lp to cd cassette tape to cd

Introduction

When your record or cassette reaches Off the Record we note any defects.

If required, the playing surface is carefully and thoroughly cleaned. Any notable major defects are reported back to you.

We listen to each track and note any playing defects - if a selected track is beyond "repair" we notify you in advance of recording it to cd.

It is worth remembering that any track which doesn't play satisfactorily on your equipment, probably won't play on ours.

Only when we are satisfied that an acceptable audio cd can be produced, do we proceed. We then digitally record each requested track to a computer hard disk.

There are some, such as our competitors, who will tell you that "the process is a closely guarded secret" - this is not true. If you have a computer with a good sound card, a CD-Writer and the relevant software, the correct cables and a device for playing your original recordings you can make cd's just like Off The Record.

How do Off the Record make your cd

Each requested track is digitally recorded from your original record or tape onto our computer.

Each track is then checked for noise, such as crackles and hiss and "filtered" as necessary to produce a significant improvement in the audio playback quality - ready for your new cd.

The tracks are then assembled in your selected order and "burnt" onto a high quality blank audio cd.

The finished compact disc is then checked to ensure you receive a quality audio cd which you can play on your own equipment such as, your hi-fi, personal cd player or in your car.

Only when we are happy that your cd is of the highest quality possible do we make the labels and inserts for the jewel case.

In addition, if you want a specific picture or photo included on the inserts and/or labels please send it with your order.

Your new cd will be tested using at least four different cd players, however, a new cd may not be playable on "old" or "early" produced equipment.

Noise Reduction (Optional)

If you simply want to save your original vinyl or tape recordings by not playing them but would like to listen to the "original" sound - you can request a cd without noise reduction.

Therefore if you require your new cd to sound as near as is possible like the original, then please tell us on the order form.

Process Limitations

Although every effort will be made to restore your music, as near as possible, to it's original playing condition, certain defects can not be completely rectified.

Please be aware of these before sending any recordings to us - the last thing we want is for you to be disappointed with the end result - your new cd.

Below are some of the worst defects - don't be put off, they are, as stated, the worst defects - in most cases the original recordings can be substantially improved.

Please remember, if we are not sure whether to go ahead we will contact you with the details and reach an agreement before proceeding to make the new cd.

If your record;

- is not playable on your equipment, it probably isn't on ours.

- is severely scratched, the effect can be reduced but probably not removed entirely.

- jumps, we will make every effort to produce an acceptable track on the new cd.

- sticks, we will persuade the needle towards the next groove to obtain an acceptable end result.

- has an off-centre hole, the record is unlikely to play to an acceptable listening level and probably not worth trying to re-produce.

- is distorted, an assessment will be made and reported before making the final cd.

- has been made at a live concert, the tracks may be difficult to determine one from another - in this case we will attempt to "best guess" the start and end points.