The VINYL LAB – Bringing Records Back to Israel

Introduction: A New Chapter for Vinyl in Israel

Vinyl records are making a comeback worldwide, and now Israel joins the revival. Alex Aizenberg and Russell Ralphy Lipelis have launched The Vinyl Lab, a pioneering business dedicated to pressing records locally - offering vinyl duplication, specialized mastering, and graphics. Their mission is simple yet powerful: to bring the warmth and authenticity of analogue sound back to the country.

Founders’ Vision: Why Vinyl Matters Today

Alex and Russell explained why vinyl is more than nostalgia. For them, it’s about artistry, tangible music experiences, and giving local musicians a chance to release their work in a format that feels timeless.

Bringing the Machines Home: From Abroad to Israel

The duo travelled overseas to acquire specialized vinyl production stations. These machines, rarely found in Israel, are the backbone of their new lab. Transporting and installing them marks a milestone in re-establishing vinyl pressing in the country.

The Craft of Vinyl: Special Mastering and Equipment

Producing vinyl records is not simply a matter of transferring digital tracks onto a disc. It is a meticulous craft that requires specialized knowledge, equipment, and a deep respect for the analogue format. Unlike digital mastering, which focuses on maximizing clarity and loudness for streaming platforms, vinyl mastering must account for the physical limitations of the medium. Every groove etched into the record carries sound information, and the way those grooves are cut determines how faithfully the music will play back.

At The Vinyl Lab, Alex Aizenberg and Russell Lipelis have invested in professional-grade API mastering gear, specifically designed for vinyl production. They operate two fully dedicated workstations, each equipped to handle the unique demands of pressing records. This setup ensures that every album is prepared with precision before the needle ever touches the lacquer.

The process begins with mastering engineers carefully balancing frequencies to avoid distortion. Low-end bass must be controlled so the grooves don’t overlap, while high frequencies are adjusted to prevent harshness. Dynamics are preserved to maintain the warmth and depth that vinyl enthusiasts cherish. Once the master is prepared, it is transferred to a lacquer disc, which serves as the template for pressing.

This attention to detail is what sets vinyl apart. It’s not just about sound - it’s about creating a tactile, enduring artifact. The Vinyl Lab’s investment in specialized equipment reflects their commitment to quality, ensuring that every record pressed in Israel meets international standards. For artists, this means their music isn’t just heard; it’s experienced in a way that digital formats can rarely replicate.

Beyond the Music: Sleeves, Artwork, and Full-Service Production.

Alex Aizenberg has operated a fully equipped professional recording facility for many years, known as Live Sound Recording Studio. This means artists can begin their journey from scratch - recording their future albums in a world-class environment - and then continue the process seamlessly at The Vinyl Lab. From recording and mastering to pressing vinyl, designing sleeves, and creating artwork, everything is handled under one roof. Musicians don’t just get records; they get a complete, end-to-end production experience.

Small-Batch Production: Tailored for Israel’s Market

Unlike massive factories abroad, The Vinyl Lab focuses on limited runs - from 10 to 100 copies, with the ability to scale up to a few thousand. This model fits Israel’s music scene, where boutique releases and personal connections matter more than mass production.

First Release: Alex Aizenberg’s Album “Go Forward”

The lab’s debut project will be Alex’s own album, Go Forward. Pressed on their newly installed machines, it symbolizes both personal and professional progress. The release marks the first record to come out of The Vinyl Lab, setting the tone for future collaborations.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Vinyl in Israel

With The Vinyl Lab now operational, local artists have a new avenue to share their music. Alex and Russell hope this will spark a broader vinyl culture in Israel, inspiring musicians and listeners alike to rediscover the beauty of analogue sound.

Contacts in Israel:

For inquiries, collaborations, or vinyl production requests, please reach out to The VINYL LAB team.

Alex Aizenberg / Russell Ralphy Lipelis / 052-3610464 / 053-5315340

/ Live Sound Recording Studio