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Why are records still warped?

This is more of a grouse than anything because I know the molding process won't ever be perfect. Still, here we are in the 21st century in the midst of a vinyl revival. Artists get it and are trying to satisfy us geeks with tasty pressings.

Cases in point are Bennett & Gaga's "Cheek to Cheek" and Lennox' "Nostalgia." Ordered both of them in (live in the sticks so no local source) and one dished, the other warped. Neither are unplayable, but both conditions are audible. Disappointing to say the least on such outstanding efforts.

The same week they arrived, I got copies of Hampton's "Silver Vibes" (mono) and Mendes' "Look Around" used at a swap meet. Perfectly flat with outstanding fidelity, especially considering their age.

Many of my "not" Golden-era pressings from the mid-70s through late-80s also lived up to expectations when I got them home. Many more did not, and that's why I ended up jumping on the CD bandwagon with a Sony CDP-101 in 1983.

In 2015, my digital playback deck is about 1000% better, CDs are better, SACDs are even better still, HD downloads can be superb, but still none of them best vinyl at its best. Unless it's warped.

We have the technology, know better and can better control the process. So, what is up with the warp thing? Is it laziness, budget or what?!?
effischer
mapman's avatar
mapman
22,078 posts
 
I hope quality of new vinyl improves but I would not bet on it.

Maybe there are some labels/sources brands that are less problematic than others, perhaps for more of a premium price.

Most common retail records I bought back in the day had various flaws to some degree as well. I had to have a table good enough to be able to play many well. You could exchange often if you were not satisfied but no guarantee the next one is any better.

Like I said, its a highly flawed format and system. Always has been and not likely to change despite all the nostalgia and romanticism surrounding "vinyl" or records as I used to call 'em.
jazzcourier
205 posts
 
There are no propitious winds blowing for new vinyl.A recent purchase of a half dozen Music Matters Blue Note 45 rpm lps found one of the six warped,unacceptable and unplayable.The return process is a well known PITA.Exchange of emails,reason for return,repack and ship back with insurance and return authorization number prominently visible on the box.You really end up like feeling like the criminal,not the victim after dealing with these people.
Here is the best part...three weeks after it arrived back to them I had to contact them AGAIN,and guess what?
I get the "oh that" attitude and they had not even opened the box.The heartbreak of the warped records,and yes,i will be taking my vinyl dollars elsewhere.Schmucks!
melm
1,066 posts
 
I think most records are warped, more or less. Take a "non" warped record and observe a reflection of a light on its surface as it turns and you'll see. IMHO we should all use ring weights and center weights when our TT allows. Improves a lot of things.
geoffkait's avatar
geoffkait
23,365 posts
 
Every medium has it's pluses and minuses. Nothing is perfect.
raymonda
855 posts
 
Barnes and Noble now carries vinyl. Yes, they have limited stock but you can order any label from them and return it for an exchange if not satisfied.
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