A&R Records, open since 1969, occupies a squat brick building in a part of town where it's necessary to keep the front door locked at all times. Inside, there's all the equipment needed to make a CD, a cassette or a record. What makes A&R special is that it's one of the last places left that still makes vinyl. The closest vinyl plant, according to the company's vice president, is in Nashville. A&R has pressed records for Prince, Beyonc? and more local acts than they can name. Currently they do most of their work for hip-hop artists and DJs. The plant is usually open until 3 p.m., and the manager says he's more than happy to give tours.