Test Pressings - GZ Media

Test Pressings – Customer Information Guide

What Is a Test Pressing?

Test pressings (TPs) are preliminary copies of your vinyl record manufactured in small batches. They are intended exclusively for sound quality verification — not for checking artwork or printed parts. TPs are packed in our new GZ standard two-layer protective sleeves to ensure safe transport and handling.

Meet the Matrix Number

Each side of the vinyl is marked with a matrix number, which serves as a mandatory reference for production identification. The matrix number consists of three parts: • A six-digit number identifying the specific title • A letter indicating the format • A digit representing the side of the record or disc in the set Example: 123456E1 Here, 123456 identifies the title, E specifies the format, and 1 indicates Side A. Format letters used: Letter Format Speed E LP 33 RPM M LP 45 RPM F Mini LP (MP) 33 RPM N Mini LP (MP) 45 RPM O Single (SP) 33 RPM H Single (SP) 45 RPM Please note that test pressings are not used to approve color variants or shaped vinyl records. For these formats, separate sample copies may be provided.

Before You Play the Record

Visual Check: Gently remove the record from its sleeve and inspect both sides. If custom engraving was requested, ensure it appears correctly. Cleaning: Use a vinyl record brush to clean the surface before playback to achieve optimal sound and avoid introducing surface noise. Turntable Setup: Proper turntable calibration is essential. Follow your equipment manufacturer’s instructions to avoid misinterpreting playback issues. A dirty or worn stylus, or an improperly adjusted tonearm (in terms of anti-skating or tracking force), can often cause distortion or other audio issues.

What to Check During Playback

Please listen to each record attentively. If you notice any inconsistencies or suspect an issue, we recommend playing the test pressing on multiple turntables or sound systems to rule out equipment-related causes. Focus on the following: • Rotation speed (e.g., 33 RPM or 45 RPM) • Correct track order and track breaks and lengths • Correct side splits according to matrix numbers • Audio differences compared to the original master • Consistent playback quality (no distortion, skipping, or defects) Minor background noise or occasional surface crackling may occur and is not considered a pressing defect.

If issues are found, we kindly ask that you:

Verify the issue using multiple playback setups

Identify the side, exact track number and timestamp where the issue occurs

Determine whether the issue is consistent across all test pressings (suggesting a pressing defect), or varies between copies (possibly equipment-related)

Describe the defect (e.g., crackle, pop, click, noise, equalization, loudness, distortion)

Fill out the Test Pressing Claim Form, making sure to include the catalogue number and matrix number, which are important for us

Include audio evidence (preferably a recording) to assist in accurate and prompt diagnosis

If you wish to make any changes to the sound, volume, or track sequence, a new cut will be required and will incur an additional charge

We are committed to resolving any issues efficiently and with care.

Please also consider the following:

Cutting

Distortion, sibilance, unbalanced frequency response, and lack of clarity or dynamics are typically caused by issues in mastering or cutting. These cannot be resolved by pressing new test copies — a remaster or recut may be necessary.
If you supplied lacquers, please consult your mastering or cutting engineer. We recommend involving them in the test pressing evaluation process from the beginning.

Metalwork

If clicks, pops, or pre-echo occur at the same position on all test pressings, this may indicate a stamper defect — in that case, a claim can be filled and a replacement set requested.

Pressing

If these noises like clicks, pops, or pre-echo vary between copies, the issue is likely pressing-related rather than stamper-related.