The resurgence of vinyl records is still going strong, and Austria-based startup Rebeat Innovation is looking to improve on the venerable technology through the introduction of "high definition vinyl."

As Pitchfork reports, Rebeat recently received $4.8 million in funding for the initiative. Based on a patent first filed back in 2016, HD vinyl involves converting audio into a 3D topographic map, before etching said map on the vinyl via laser. The result, according to Rebeat, is LPs with up to 30% more playing time, 30% more amplitude and "overall more faithful sound reproduction."

In addition, the process does not involve the chemicals used in traditional vinyl manufacture, and the results should playable on regular turntables with ordinary styluses-- although, of course, the playback quality also depends on how good the user's equipment is.

Rebeat hopes to receive a big laser system on July 2018, and plans to present the first test results at the October 2018 Making Vinyl conference. As a result, expect HD vinyls to hit the market by Q3 2018.

Go HD Vinyl

Go "HD Vinyl" is Happening, Possibly as Early as Next Year (Pitchfork)