Practically since day one the inside track or runout groove of a vinyl record or 78rpm disc has been the domain of the matrix number an alphanumerical code either stamped or handwritten into the wax to help pressing plants assign the correct stamper and label to each side of the record.
Matrix runout vinyl.
This information should all be added to one matrix number field.
Lp jacket front cover.
Label matrix number optional label code optional runout matrix number optional example 1.
It is so we know where the text appears.
Consisting of numbers and or letters the code may indicate recording dates specific takes and even the system of recording.
Though these numbers were originally intended for internal use by a record pressing plant you can use them to.
This is why on vinyl releases on discogs we use baoi tags descriptions like runout matrix label side a and runout matrix runout side a.
On cds there is no groove or wax so matrix area is the term we like to use here on discogs and it seems to be fairly common among collectors elsewhere.
Vinyl run out etchings can also contain mastering engineer mastering studio pressing plant information often as initials and extra text.
Extra digits often refer to the cut or take of a.
A matrix or stamper number is a code etched inside the end groove area found on each side of a vinyl lp.