How long does a dubplate take to make?

A dub plate is cut in real time, so it takes at least as long as the audio being recorded: usually around 10 minutes per side, but sometimes up to 20 minutes per side. There is usually a fair amount of prep to be done to get the audio ready, so expect the whole process to take 1 to 2 hours.

What prep needs to be done?

To get the best from a dub plate, most tracks need at least some audio mastering, even if they have already been mastered. Tracks need to be auditioned to see if they will transfer well to vinyl, and then some tweaks may be needed. The main areas that may need attention are:

• loudness (gain staging and limiting)
• tonal balance (EQ)
• dynamic range (compression)
• stereo width (M/S treatment)
• top end (high frequencies)
• track markers (gaps between tracks on the disc)
• restoration work (removing clicks and pops from old recordings)

So can I get a dubplate done right now?

Normally dubplates are booked in advance. While-you-wait services do exist, but they are not that common. Here at Dub Studio we book everything in advance, and we have a turnaround of anywhere between a week and a month for very large orders. its best to contact the studio if you have a tight deadline, and we can usually accommodate your schedule - but the longer we get to spend with your audio the better!