Vinyl

Vinyl at the Supreme Chaos Records Shop

Vinyl is not just a format for us, it's a passion. At Supreme Chaos Records, vinyl has been at the center of everything we do since the very beginning. Every record that leaves our store is meticulously packaged by vinyl nerds with the necessary dedication and care. When you receive your records, you will realize that we share the enthusiasm for this medium.

Whether limited special editions, hand-numbered collector's items or artistically designed splatter versions - lovers of analog sound will find everything their heart desires here.

Vinyl as music medium

Vinyl records, a timeless medium for music, are celebrated for their unique sound quality and tactile appeal. Their manufacturing process combines artistry with precision engineering to create a product that appeals to both audiophiles and collectors.

The Manufacturing Process

The manufacturing of a vinyl record begin with the creation of a lacquer blank, a flat disc coated with nitrocellulose. This lacquer blank is placed on a lathe, where grooves are meticulously cut to encode the audio. These grooves form the master recording. Once the lacquer is complete, it undergoes electroforming—a process where a thin metal layer, usually nickel, is applied to create a stamper. This stamper is used to press the grooves into the vinyl material.

The vinyl itself is a mix of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pellets, often combined with stabilizers and dyes to achieve specific colors or properties. These pellets are heated and molded into a “biscuit”, which is then sandwiched between two labels and placed in a hydraulic press. Under heat and pressure, the vinyl is flattened into the familiar record shape, while the stamper imprints the grooves. After pressing, the record is trimmed and inspected for quality.

Appeal and Legacy

Vinyl records hold a special place in music culture due to their analog sound, which many describe as “warmer” compared to digital formats. Collectors and fans also value the tactile experience, including the artwork and packaging. With a resurgence in vinyl production in recent years, they have become both a nostalgic and a modern medium, connecting generations of music lovers.

Vinyl in Heavy Metal and DIY Culture

Vinyl records play a pivotal role in today’s heavy metal scene and DIY culture, serving as a symbol of authenticity and artistic expression. Many metal bands and underground artists embrace vinyl as a way to showcase their music in a tangible and meaningful format. The medium aligns perfectly with the genre's ethos of raw, unfiltered creativity, offering fans a sensory connection to the music. DIY labels and bands often produce limited-edition vinyl releases, incorporating unique elements like colored splatter designs, hand-numbered editions, or custom packaging. This hands-on approach not only preserves the underground spirit but also fosters a deeper bond between artists and their audiences. In an era dominated by digital consumption, vinyl remains a cherished artifact, representing the physical and personal connection central to metal’s rebellious heart.