FAQ

Using the panel

This panel is used to create project folders and manage production files for CD, cassette, vinyl and other manufacturing projects.

Create a separate project folder for each production format. For example, if the same release is being produced on CD and cassette, create separate folders and file sets for each format, as production file requirements may differ. You can also create a project folder and prepare your files before placing a formal order.

Upload audio files, disc images, checksum files, and track lists to the Audio section. Upload artwork and production-ready PDFs to the Artwork section.

You can add a message or comment to every upload. Uploading files alone does not start production; production begins only after the order has been formally confirmed.

Audio requirements

CD

DDP and NRG are the preferred delivery formats for CD production. ISO files are accepted only when uploaded together with a checksum file, such as MD5 or SHA-256.

CUE files are not accepted. WAV files are not a standard final delivery format for CD production. Preparing a CD master from WAV files may require an additional paid service. If WAV files have been agreed in advance, they must use a 44,100 Hz sample rate.

Vinyl

The preferred delivery method is one WAV file per track. File names must clearly indicate side and track order, for example A1, A2, A3, followed by B1, B2.

You may also submit one WAV file for each side of the release, for example Side A, Side B, Side C, and Side D. In this case, a track list is mandatory because it is used to divide each side correctly into individual tracks.

The track list must specify the side, track order, track titles, and the start time of each track. Do not submit one WAV file containing more than one vinyl side.

Accepted formats: WAV 16-bit / 44.1 kHz, WAV 24-bit / 44.1 kHz, or WAV 24-bit / 48 kHz.

Cassette

Upload one complete WAV file for each cassette side. For example, submit one file for Side A and one file for Side B. Required sample rate: 44,100 Hz.

Example file names: Artist_Title_Side-A.wav and Artist_Title_Side-B.wav.

Track lists and additional information

Track lists may be supplied as PDF, TXT, XLS, or XLSX files. To help us identify the document, include tracklist, track list, or track listing in the file name. Upload the document to the Audio section.

Artwork and print requirements

Use the correct template for the ordered product.
Upload a production-ready PDF 1.3, flattened, without layers or transparency.
Prepare artwork at a 1:1 scale. All pages in a multi-page project must use the same dimensions and settings.
Bitmap images must be at least 300 dpi at final size.
Convert text and vector elements to outlines. The recommended minimum text size is 6 pt.
Use CMYK colour mode. Do not use RGB elements or colour profiles.
Add 3 mm bleed on every side. Keep important text and artwork at least 5 mm away from the cut line.
Maximum total ink coverage is 320% for coated paper and 250% for reverse board or uncoated paper.
Prepare Pantone colours as additional spot colours in the project or as a separate file with identical dimensions.
Include crop marks only. Do not place the template itself in the print artwork.
Hot stamping and embossing elements must be vector-based.

Archives and file versions

ZIP, RAR, and 7Z archives may be uploaded to either section. Do not password-protect archives, as password-protected archives cannot be extracted automatically.

To submit a corrected version, upload a new file. Do not manually replace earlier files. Upload only files related to the order.

Only you and authorised production staff have access to your files. You are responsible for ensuring that submitted materials are legally cleared, correct, and ready for production.