Phonoland

I understand that each setup (and whoever is doing the cutting) is going to be different, but let's say the cut was done by someone who knew what they were doing. How does the quality compare to a commercial pressing? Are there any issues with how long a one-off cut would last vs a commercial pressing?

One off cuttings last far fewer playings than commercial pressings. Especially when played back on heavy pickup cartridges. One off cuttings are usually done on acetate based lacquer discs. Play them on lightweight tonearms and cartridges only

This is the site I was considering doing some 45s with: http://www.customrecords.com/custom_made_45rpm_jukebox_phonograph_records.html - It's a bit on the expensive side if they don't last very long.

Why don't you contact him and ask your questions ? If you do, please post his answer(s)---
Ron Rich

I was initially concerned after reading another site that does them: http://www.circularwaves.com/therecords.html - This guy says it's in mono, and the samples/comparisons aren't very good quality. He's probably using a different material, however.

I've invited customrecords.com here and will see if they are willing to give us some information and possibly some sound samples for comparison.

Our 12" and 7" acetate records have a "harder coating" than your standard mastering/dub plates which does get us a few steps closer to vinyl durability. We've been cutting records 25 years and still hear from folks back then claiming how great their record still sounds. If given reasonable care (using light to medium weight tonearms) they really should last a lifetime. I'll try to get a video up soon to show sound quality transfer - which truly is superb. Hopefully we'll also be experimenting this spring producing one-off "hard" gramophone type records that can withstand heavy arms and steel needles. -- kg/customrecords