A method of fabricating media comprises forming recording media on a substrate. An overcoat is deposited on the recording media opposite the substrate. The overcoat has a first surface finish. The overcoat is etched to remove material and provide the overcoat with a second surface finish that is smoother than the first surface finish. The depositing and etching may occur sequentially in an in-situ, dry vacuum process. The second surface finish may not be mechanically processed after etching to further planarize the overcoat.