Documentation

VinylRest File user manual

Restore one digitized record or a complete folder, choose conservative automatic settings, compare the result and understand every file VinylRest publishes.

Applies to VinylRest File 1.00b1 (build 8)

What VinylRest File does

VinylRest File is a native macOS application for restoring existing digital transfers of records. It repairs clicks and pops, treats fine crackle independently, then can reduce continuous surface noise. It does not record a turntable signal and never edits the selected source file in place.

Source audio file
DeClick
DeCrackle → NRNG S150/S200
New restored copy and reports
Non-destructive by design: the source remains untouched. A normal successful job publishes a restored audio file plus an analysis report and a repaired report beside the selected destination.
VinylRest File 1.00b1 build 8 ready to restore a 90-second 96 kHz 24-bit source with automatic DeClick, automatic DeCrackle and NRNG S150
The selected source, proposed output and complete current NG2/NRNG configuration are visible before the job starts.

Choose a chapter

Recommended first restoration

  1. Select Single File, then choose a supported digitized record side.
  2. Leave Paranoid, Automatic DeClick, Automatic DeCrackle and NRNG Conservative S150 selected.
  3. Check the proposed restored-copy name. Use Choose… only if you want another folder or filename.
  4. Select Restore Audio and let the complete analysis and restoration finish.
  5. Review the grade and repair summary, then use the synchronized player to compare Source, Clicks and Output at the same listening level.
One current engine: File 1.00b1 uses the fixed NG2 sequential DeClick → DeCrackle reconstruction path. The earlier Basic and Extended method selector is no longer part of the application.
Start conservatively: Paranoid applies the smallest factory limits for every measured condition. Change one control at a time and judge the result on exposed vocals, cymbals, piano attacks and quiet passages.

Requirements and supported material

Mac
macOS 15.4 or later. The distributed Universal 2 application runs natively on Apple silicon and Intel Macs.
Containers
WAV, AIFF/AIF, FLAC and lossless ALAC in an .m4a container. AAC inside .m4a is not accepted.
Channels
Mono or stereo. Files with more than two channels are rejected before processing.
Resolution
WAV and AIFF: 16-, 24- or 32-bit PCM. FLAC and ALAC: 16- or 24-bit.
Sample rate
Standard production rates through 192 kHz. Noise reduction is available at 32, 44.1, 48, 64, 88.2, 96, 128, 176.4 and 192 kHz.
Storage
Enough free space for a new restored file, reports and temporary decoding. Folder processing and compressed formats can require several simultaneous temporary files.

Conventions used in this manual