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
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.
"03-31-15: Ebm
Why is the sky blue???"

Because you have blue eyes, maybe. You really need someone to explain that to you?
Re: Fremer and perfect Lps

I'd bet that certain reviewers get individually selected copies. You'd be crazy not to make sure MF gets a good one.
Case in point: A NOS RCA reissue copy of a Broadway play originally recorded in 1964 and pressed in 1974, wafer thin and flexible, purchased from Georgia and delivered to Ohio during the deepest of February's deep-freezes, flat. Still had the original price sticker from whatever out-of-business retailer and has gone through who-knows-how-many hands.

A good example of the the golden age of record pressing. Records did not come from the plant warped as they do today. LPs weren't always perfect, but the quality control was tight and the Cutters and line workers were craftsmen.

It's true that today's record plants are backed up with heavy volume, but I also believe this is a new generation of worker who can't quickly spot a defect on the vinyl before it is shipped out.