From arrival to the finished files, each tape and disc is handled individually. Original masters, one-off sessions and private archives deserve that attention.
We choose the workflow around the recording and the condition of its original media.
Let us know the formats, quantities and any known faults. More than 10 items, unusual recording modes or special requirements are quoted individually. We’ll agree the scope and sending arrangements before you post your media.
We identify and log each item, then assess its condition before playback. We look for tape mould, physical damage and shell or mechanism faults that may need attention.
Some DAT tapes, and occasionally MiniDiscs, need cleaning or physical repair before transfer. We’ll contact you, explain the issue and agree any additional charge before carrying out extra work.
We use equipment suited to the format and keep the signal digital end-to-end where appropriate. Your recordings are prepared in the agreed file format, with any naming, track preparation or other requirements confirmed as part of the order.
We supply your digital files and retain the original media securely for 30 days after transfer. This gives you time to review your files and request return of the originals. USB delivery is £8 delivered and an audio CD listening copy is £3 posted. Return of the originals is quoted separately.
A tape can need attention before it is safe to play. Inspection helps us identify contamination, tape damage and mechanical faults, then decide whether cleaning or physical repair is needed.
We discuss any extra work and agree its cost with you first. The original recording guides the transfer method and the preparation it needs.
We use audio-capable SGI DDS hardware for compatible DAT transfers. Reading the tape’s audio as digital data allows a direct, computer-controlled transfer without an analogue stage.
Audio support depends on the drive and its firmware. We assess compatibility and use the approach that suits the tape, rather than making a blanket promise about every DAT recording.
We use Sony ES-series MiniDisc decks for dependable, high-quality playback. Where the source and setup allow, we capture through a digital connection so the audio stays digital from playback to the finished file.
The aim is a faithful transfer of the existing recording. We discuss restoration or changes to the sound separately, as part of any special requirements.
We supply WAV files plus MP3 listening copies as standard, with digital download included. Tell us about your editing, listening or archive requirements, including any track splitting or naming, so we can agree the right delivery.
After transfer, we securely retain your original media for 30 days. Review your digital files and request return within that period if you would like the originals back. Return postage is charged separately.
Please download and back up your files when they arrive. The 30-day policy concerns the physical originals; it is not a long-term digital storage service.
Read the Transfer Terms ↗For born-digital recordings, we preserve the source’s native resolution where appropriate. WAV files and MP3 listening copies are included as standard. We can agree Broadcast WAV, metadata or other delivery formats for your archive.
Online delivery is included. We can supply an appropriately sized USB drive for £8 delivered, or a physical audio CD listening copy for £3 posted. You can also ask us to use your own storage media.
Tell us whether you work on macOS, Windows or GNU/Linux. We’ll agree the delivery medium and filesystem for your setup; older HFS+, NTFS or EXT3 requirements can be discussed before transfer.
For background on preservation practice, see IASA’s TC-04 guidelines.
We treat your recordings and project information as confidential. We don’t publish, share or use your material for publicity without your permission. If your archive contains commercially sensitive or unreleased material, let us know before sending it so we can agree any specific handling and delivery requirements.