A warped record doesn’t have to mean the end of the music. At Mr Vinyl, we offer a professional record flattening service from our Johannesburg store to help rescue your warped vinyl and get it back on the turntable.
We use the industry-leading ORB DF-01iA Record Flattener, which uses a highly controlled heating and cooling cycle to relax the vinyl back into its original flat shape.
Pricing & Service Details
- Cost: R160 per record (charged whether the process is successful or not, as each record requires a dedicated machine cycle).
- Process Time: While the actual heating and cooling cycle takes a precise 12 hours, we process records on a first-come, first-served basis. Depending on our current queue, it may take a few days before your record goes into the machine.
- Drop-off Only: This service is in-store drop-off only. We currently do not accept records sent to us via courier, PostNet, or mail for flattening.
- Collection: Once your record has finished its cycle, we will contact you directly via WhatsApp to let you know it is ready for collection.
What We Can & Cannot Flatten
While the ORB flattener is highly advanced, not every record is a candidate for flattening:
- Storage Warps Only: We can only flatten records with standard storage-related warps. Records with physical heat damage cannot be flattened.
- No Picture Discs: We are unable to flatten picture discs.
- No Multi-Colour/Blended Vinyl: We cannot accept records with “multi-colour”, “marble”, or “blended” finishes.
Important Terms, Risks & Conditions
By leaving your record with us for our Record Flattening Service, you acknowledge and agree to the following terms and risks:
- No Guaranteed Completion Dates: Because the flattening process takes 12 hours, relies on a machine queue, and can be interrupted by load shedding or power issues, we cannot provide a definitive start or completion date.
- The Risk of “Pinched Grooves”: Records with extensive warping or undetected heat damage may flatten with “pinched grooves.” This can make certain parts of the record unplayable or cause a “locked groove.”
- Warp Memory: While we aim for a permanent fix, some records have “memory” and may slowly return to their warped state over time.
- Imperfect Flattening: Some records may not achieve a perfectly flat state and might still retain a small warp or minor imperfection after the process.
- Coloured Vinyl: Certain coloured records are affected by the cooling process and may not achieve a flat state.
- No Guaranteed Outcome & Liability: While we always strive for the best possible result, we do not guarantee a successful outcome. Mr Vinyl Proprietary Limited, its employees, owners, and directors do not accept any liability or responsibility for loss or damage sustained as a result of the flattening process. By using this service, you agree to indemnify and hold Mr Vinyl harmless for any loss or damage, direct or indirect, arising from the service.
