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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
syntax's avatar
syntax
2,193 posts
 
Let's face the truth, you will find always AND everywhere expanations why this or that is the way it is... forget it. You can sum it up in one sentence today:
No clue from anything.
When the plants closed in the 90's all the know how was gone, too. Those who knew something lost their job, retired or looked for a different work. With the comeback of vinyl everyone was hired who was able to recognize a record two out of three tries.
analogluvr
859 posts
 
So WPC is it safe to assume that a heavier 180g record will potentially warp more than a 120g due to there simply being more material which could pull in multiple directions ?
wattsperchannel
142 posts
 
Not necessarily. There are many variables involved. The wider wall stock will reduce the pressures required to make the puck which can result in lower internal stresses so it helps in that regard but the more plastic the more shrink which as you state could make things worse. I have no direct experience with how these to countervailing influences effect records.

Complex finite analysis models are used to predict these things but they are only so accurate. There is no substitute for prototyping the mold and making actual parts to get the best result.
slaw's avatar
slaw
21,292 posts
 
Lowrider57: Your post was my impression. I felt that quite a lot of the warps were due to taking the lp off the press too soon. Your post is a similar finding.
melm
1,074 posts
 
A 180g record, while offering no advantages (except marketing, perhaps) requires more time to cool down. Failure to allow sufficient time for cooling down seems to be a major cause of warping.

Actually, if most of your records are 120g or so, 180g records are a disadvantage for some who are scrupulous about their SRA. More adjustment.
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