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RESOURCES · BEFORE PRODUCTION

Prepare
your files.

Good production starts with the right audio and artwork. Use these guides to prepare your files, then confirm the exact specifications for your chosen format and packaging with us.

Find the artwork templates ↗

01 · SOUND

Audio masters

One approved master, the correct side or track order, and enough information to prepare the physical format without guessing.

01 / AUDIO

Vinyl audio

Prepare a master for the physical format, with a clear programme for each side.

  • Send uncompressed WAV or AIFF audio. One continuous file per side, with the intended gaps already included, is the clearest option.
  • Include a track list showing side, sequence, track lengths and start times. Label files clearly: Side A, Side B and so on.
  • Tell your mastering engineer this release is for vinyl. Side length, dynamics and high-frequency content affect the level and quality of the cut.

The suitable duration depends on record size, speed and the audio itself. Confirm the side lengths with us before you finalise the master.

02 / AUDIO

CD audio

Give us an approved master and the information needed to reproduce it accurately.

  • A final DDP image is the preferred master for replicated CDs. Ask your mastering engineer to check it before delivery.
  • If you only have WAV files, tell us before sending them. We will confirm the authoring information and preparation needed for your order.
  • Check the track order, gaps, titles and any CD-Text information against the approved release plan.

The exact master format and duration are confirmed with the CD specification in your quote.

03 / AUDIO

Cassette audio

Think in sides, rather than a folder of individual tracks.

  • Supply one WAV file for Side A and one for Side B, at 44.1 kHz / 16-bit or better, with tracks in the final order and all intended pauses included.
  • Check the playback and the lengths of both sides. Side A must be at least as long as Side B for the usual duplication setup; ask us if your programme differs.
  • Send a track list and label the files clearly. We will confirm any additional delivery or checksum requirements for the production partner handling your order.

If you have separate tracks instead of one file per side, contact us before sending them. Joining and checking files may require extra work, quoted in advance.

02 · PRINT

Artwork that fits.

Start with the template for the actual product you ordered. A 12-inch sleeve, CD digipack and cassette J-card each have different folds, spines and print areas.

Browse artwork templates
01

Use the confirmed template. Check size, spine, folds, label hole and packaging type before you design.

02

Prepare for print. Send print-ready PDF artwork in CMYK, with images at 300 dpi at final size and 3 mm bleed on trimmed edges.

03

Keep text safe. Leave important lettering away from trim and folds. Embed or outline fonts and proofread every credit, barcode and catalogue number.

04

Separate special finishes. Foil, embossing, spot UV and Pantone colours need their own production instructions. Ask us for the exact specification before exporting.

03 · SEND

Before you send the final files

Listen to the complete audio, inspect the exported artwork and check that file names match the approved quote. Send one clear final version rather than several files marked “final”. We review common technical risks before production and will tell you what needs attention.

Your project specification takes priority. Materials, finishes and production partners can change the details. We confirm the exact requirements with your quote and order; if anything here is unclear, ask before exporting.

Ask us about your files ↗