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Vinyl Matrix Number Lookup
The Vinyl Guard matrix number lookup tool decodes any vinyl record matrix number instantly — identifying the pressing plant, country, era, and mastering engineer. Matrix numbers are the most reliable indicator of vinyl record authenticity. Use this free tool to decode yours, then scan with Vinyl Guard at vinylguard.pro for a definitive genuine or counterfeit verdict in 30 seconds for 99 cents.
Enter the matrix (runout) number etched in your record's dead wax and we'll decode the likely pressing plant, country, era, label and mastering engineer — and flag anything unusual. Free forever, no account needed.
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Type the runout exactly as etched, including spaces and any hand-scratched letters or symbols.
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Check My Record — 99¢ →What is a matrix number?
A matrix number — also called the runout or dead-wax code — is the string of characters etched or stamped into the smooth band of vinyl between the final groove and the paper label. It identifies the lacquer, the stamper, and frequently the pressing plant and mastering engineer behind that exact pressing. Because counterfeits rarely reproduce these details correctly, the matrix is one of the most reliable fingerprints for telling an original from a fake.
Where do I find my matrix number?
Hold the record under a bright light and look at the shiny, ungrooved ring between the last song and the centre label — the "dead wax". Rotate the disc slowly and you'll see etched or stamped characters: a catalog number, side letters, and often hand-scratched initials or symbols. Check both sides, as each can carry different information.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a matrix number on a vinyl record?
A matrix (or runout) number is the code etched or stamped into the smooth run-out area between the last track and the label. It identifies the lacquer, stamper and often the pressing plant and mastering engineer used to make that specific pressing.
Where do I find the matrix number?
Look in the 'dead wax' — the shiny, ungrooved ring of vinyl between the final groove and the paper label. Tilt the record under a light and rotate it slowly; the matrix is usually a mix of catalog numbers, letters and hand-etched symbols.
What does the matrix number tell me?
It can reveal the pressing plant, country of manufacture, approximate era, the mastering engineer, and which pressing in the run you have. Matching it against a known genuine pressing is one of the most reliable ways to confirm authenticity.
Can a fake record have a matrix number?
Yes. Counterfeits often copy a matrix number, but the details are frequently wrong — machine-stamped where the original was hand-etched, missing mastering initials, or a format that never existed for that release. Mismatches are a strong warning sign.
What is a hand-etched matrix number?
Hand-etched matrices are scratched into the lacquer by the mastering engineer, so they look irregular and scratchy. Original pressings of many classic albums have hand-etched runouts; perfectly uniform, machine-stamped text can indicate a later pressing or a reproduction.
What does RL mean on a vinyl record?
'RL' is the mastering signature of Robert Ludwig. RL cuts — most famously on Led Zeppelin II — are prized by collectors and command a significant premium over later masterings.
What does Porky mean on a vinyl record?
'Porky' (and 'Pecko') is the etched signature of British mastering engineer George Peckham. Seeing 'A Porky Prime Cut' in the runout is a positive sign of a genuine, well-regarded UK cut.
How do I decode my vinyl matrix number?
Use the free Vinyl Guard matrix number lookup tool at vinylguard.pro/tools/matrix-number-lookup. Enter your matrix number exactly as it appears in the dead wax and the tool instantly identifies the pressing plant, country, era, and mastering engineer.
What does RL mean in a vinyl matrix number?
RL in a vinyl matrix number indicates the record was mastered by Robert Ludwig at Sterling Sound — one of the most sought after mastering engineers for rock records. RL pressings of Led Zeppelin and other classic rock albums command significant price premiums.
What does Porky mean in a vinyl matrix number?
Porky etched in the dead wax indicates the record was cut by George Peckham at Porky's Prime Cuts in the UK — a highly regarded mastering engineer. Porky etchings are found on many desirable original UK pressings.
Are matrix numbers reliable for authenticating vinyl?
Matrix numbers are one of the most reliable indicators of vinyl authenticity. Counterfeit records often have machine stamped matrix numbers instead of hand etched, incorrect format for the label, or missing specialist etchings like RL or Porky. Use Vinyl Guard at vinylguard.pro to combine matrix analysis with expert label authentication for the most reliable verdict.
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