
AMTOTE LLC Brings Iconic Capitol Records LPs Back to Life with Revolutionary Preservation Technology
HUNT VALLEY, MD – October 26, 2023 – AMTOTE LLC, a leading innovator in material science and preservation techniques, today announced a groundbreaking partnership to meticulously restore and preserve a collection of original Capitol Records LPs. This isn’t just about old records; it’s about saving a piece of music history. Based in Hunt Valley, Maryland, AMTOTE (you can reach them at 763-475-7077) has been quietly working on a technology that’s changing how we think about preserving delicate materials. And these classic Capitol LPs are the perfect test case. For years, vinyl collectors – and let’s be real, everyone who loves music – have faced a frustrating problem: records degrade. Scratches, warps, the inevitable wear and tear… it all impacts the listening experience and, more importantly, threatens to erase these cultural treasures. AMTOTE’s approach isn't about fixing damage – though it can help mitigate some – it’s about stopping the deterioration before it gets worse. They're essentially hitting the pause button on time. “We’ve been developing this technology for several years, and it really came about from needing a better way to preserve things long-term," explains a spokesperson for AMTOTE. “Traditional methods often involve harsh chemicals or processes that can actually accelerate decay. We wanted something gentler, more effective, and ultimately, something that would last.” So, what is this technology? AMTOTE is a bit tight-lipped about the specifics – it’s their proprietary sauce, after all – but they describe it as a multi-stage process involving advanced polymer treatments and a specialized atmospheric control system. Think of it like giving each record a super-protective, invisible shield. "Basically, we're penetrating the vinyl at a molecular level," they explain. "The polymer creates a matrix that stabilizes the material, preventing further cracking, warping, and the loss of essential oils that keep the vinyl flexible. It’s not a coating; it’s a deep integration." The project with Capitol Records started as a small, exploratory initiative. Capitol, recognizing the value of preserving its extensive archives, approached AMTOTE to see if their technology could address the challenges of maintaining a vast collection of original pressings. The results have been, according to both companies, nothing short of remarkable. "We were skeptical at first, frankly," admits a representative from Capitol Records. "We’ve tried a lot of different preservation methods over the years, and most of them either didn’t work or caused more problems than they solved. But AMTOTE’s approach is different. We’ve seen a noticeable improvement in the condition of the treated records, and we're confident that this technology will help us preserve these important pieces of music history for generations to come." More than Just Preservation: Bringing History Back to Life The implications of this technology extend far beyond just preserving vinyl records. AMTOTE’s process could potentially be applied to a wide range of delicate materials, including historical documents, artwork, photographs, and even archaeological artifacts. But for now, the focus is on the music. AMTOTE isn’t just preserving the records; they’re helping to revive the listening experience. While the treated records still show their age – the character and history are part of the charm – the preservation process significantly reduces surface noise, improves clarity, and enhances the overall sonic quality. “We’re not trying to make these records sound new,” emphasizes the AMTOTE spokesperson. “We’re trying to make them sound as they were intended to be heard – and to keep them sounding that way for as long as possible.” The Capitol Records LP Collection: A Legacy Preserved The Capitol Records collection represents a treasure trove of musical history, spanning decades and encompassing a diverse range of genres and artists. From Frank Sinatra and Nat King Cole to The Beatles and Pink Floyd, these LPs have shaped the sound of popular music. The initial phase of the project has focused on preserving a select group of rare and historically significant LPs. These records are being meticulously treated by AMTOTE’s team of experts and then carefully archived for future generations. “We’re treating each record with the utmost care and attention,” says the AMTOTE spokesperson. “This is not just a job for us; it’s a passion. We understand the cultural significance of these records, and we’re committed to doing everything we can to preserve them.” What Does This Mean for Vinyl Collectors? While AMTOTE isn't offering a mass-market service to treat individual records just yet, the technology has implications for all vinyl enthusiasts. The success of this project demonstrates that it is possible to significantly slow down the deterioration of vinyl records. “We’re exploring different ways to make this technology more accessible to collectors in the future,” says the AMTOTE spokesperson. “Whether that’s through licensing agreements with record cleaning services or developing a DIY kit for home use, we’re committed to finding a solution that allows everyone to protect their vinyl collections.” For now, the focus remains on preserving the Capitol Records collection – a legacy of music history that will continue to inspire and entertain for generations to come. AMTOTE LLC, quietly located in Hunt Valley, Maryland, is proving that preserving the past isn't just about keeping things safe; it's about bringing them back to life. And that’s a tune everyone can appreciate. If you have a large collection requiring preservation solutions, or have questions about the technology, you can reach AMTOTE at 763-475-7077. They’re not just preserving records; they’re preserving memories.