3D-PRINTED RECORDS,
EXPLAINED PROPERLY
Everything we've learned building printable discs — groove geometry, file formats, printer settings, materials and the sound you should actually expect.
Start here
Can you 3D print a playable record?
The short answer, the physics behind it, and the five steps from waveform to a disc a stylus can actually read.
Walkthrough
How to 3D print a vinyl record
A full walkthrough of printing a 12cm disc at home — file prep, slicer setup, print time and first playback.
Files
Playable record STL files explained
Why most record STLs on the model sites don't play, what a real groove mesh looks like, and why 3MF beats STL.
Settings
Best 3D printer settings for records
Layer height, speed, temperature, exposure and bed levelling values that decide whether the groove survives.
Materials
Resin vs PLA for 3D-printed records
A head-to-head on groove fidelity, surface noise, durability and cost — with a clear recommendation.
Audio
What a 3D-printed record actually sounds like
Realistic frequency range, noise floor and wear expectations, plus how to get the cleanest playback possible.