10/06/2026
The secrets of the dead wax 👀
Once the music has been cut onto a master lacquer disc, the matrix information is added by hand before the record moves on to the next stage of production.
Using a pantograph for support, Alex or Anth our cutting engineers carefully inscribe the matrix numbers into the lacquer using a scriber. Because the lacquer surface is soft, it can be etched easily.
The dead wax usually contains information such as the catalogue number, side identifiers like A-side or B-side, and other details that help us identify the correct music throughout the manufacturing process so the right records are pressed. It can also include the signature or initials of the cutting engineer, and sometimes artists even request hidden messages to be etched into the runout groove too 👀
These markings are then carried through the manufacturing process and end up on every record pressed from that master.
Next time you pick up a record, take a look in the dead wax. Those tiny markings can tell the story of that record.
Have you ever spotted a hidden message or unusual inscription in your collection? 👇
