High definition vinyl could arrive 'within three years'

  • Published
    Wed, Mar 16, 2016, 16:20
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  • Potential improvements include 30% higher volume.
  • High definition vinyl could arrive 'within three years' image
  • Patents have been filed by Rebeat Digital for a new high definition vinyl manufacturing process. Digital Music News reports that the Austrian company will use a process called 3D-based topographical mapping which drastically cuts manufacturing time and reduces reliance on antiquated machinery. The company claims that their technology will reduce production costs by 50% and slash cutting time by 60% percent. What's more, they maintain the new discs will have 30% greater running time, 30% greater volume and double the audio fidelity. CEO Guenter Loibl stated, "We adjust the distance of the grooves, we correct the radial/tangential errors, and we optimize the frequencies… You could say we 'master' the topographical data, which is a totally different approach... This is a completely backwards-compatible technology... It will play on any existing turntable, you don’t need to buy a new system to enjoy the benefits." Rebeat are seeking funding to carry out the patent. The news comes as the industry looks to meet growing demand for vinyl and a lack of manufacturing options, be it through redesigning vinyl presses or crowd-funding manufacturing costs.
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