Matrix Runout Vinyl

Starting with the front cover and working clockwise we have the title artist label catalog number note the one on the spine next to 5 both should be entered and a company credit which is optional.

Matrix runout vinyl.

Lp jacket front cover. A matrix or stamper number is a code etched inside the end groove area found on each side of a vinyl lp. Vinyl run out etchings can also contain mastering engineer mastering studio pressing plant information often as initials and extra text. Matrix numbers and other run out information can also be extracted from the whole run out inscription and added as further matrix.

Extra digits often refer to the cut or take of a. Label matrix number optional label code optional runout matrix number optional example 1. Consisting of numbers and or letters the code may indicate recording dates specific takes and even the system of recording. Practically since day one the inside track or runout groove of a vinyl record or 78rpm disc has been the domain of the matrix number an alphanumerical code either stamped or handwritten into the wax to help pressing plants assign the correct stamper and label to each side of the record.

This is why on vinyl releases on discogs we use baoi tags descriptions like runout matrix label side a and runout matrix runout side a. A matrix number is an alphanumeric code and on occasion other symbols stamped or handwritten or a combination of the two into the run out groove area of a phonograph record this is the non grooved area between the end of the final band on a record s side and the label also known as the run off groove area end groove area matrix area or dead wax. It is so we know where the text appears.