We can reduce warps and usually completely remove them but the process is not always straightforward due to the considerable variences in the quality and thickness of the vinyl used to manufacture records.
What causes warps?
Records fresh from the press can sometimes have warps and we have seen a surprising number of expensive audiophile recordings that are warped before their first play. Normally the main causal factor - after poor quality vinyl or pressing faults - is bad storage. Records need to be stored upright and somewhere not too hot. We recommend storage below 20°C as an ideal, avoid temperatures above 30°C and especially avoid localised heat such as window sills or close proximity to radiators.
How do we do it?
We use the latest state of the art Orb DF-01iA Plus record flatteners which produce a carefully controlled gentle heat according to the size of the record being flattened. A high temperature can have drastic results whereas too low means no change takes place, so temperature control is essential for a good outcome and the Orb uses clever semi-conductor heating technology to get the best possible result.
We recommend that the record is properly cleaned before warp removal because minute particles of dirt can be forced into the groove as the record changes back to it's original shape, leaving permanent damage that cannot be removed later. We therefore offer the option of giving each record an ultrasonic 'Pro Clean' as part of the process. If you prefer not have your record cleaned just select the 'Standard' warp reduction service instead.
How successful is the process?
The type of warp generally only has a marginal effect on the final outcome and warps will almost always be significantly reduced and in the majority of cases completely removed. We put each record through the Orb up to four times or until no further flattening takes place - normally there isno benefit in carrying on beyond this point and Orb recommend not repeatedlyputtingthe record through the machine. Where there is still pronounced warping present we will contact you with suggestions for alternative treatments if this could be appropriate for your record.
In cases where the warp is unusual or severe - for example where there are pressing faults or localised heat damage - then as the record straightens the grooves can start to close up or the record may not go back to round and these changes can have a detrimental effect on the sound. Sometimes picture and coloured discs do not respond in the same way as conventional records and in rare instances variations in original colours and patination can occur.
We use the best equipment and have a great deal of experience with a very high success rate but unfortunately records do occasionally respond unpredictably or even badly to warp treatment; this is extremely unlikely to happen but it does mean we cannot accept liability for any damage that takes place.
