david: i've collected japanese pressings of lp's for many years and have hundreds now in my vinyl library. the great bulk of these records are more valuable than their american counterparts because they are pressed on virgin vinyl and are "remastered," most but certainly not all, more pleasingly done than other versions. they are also readily identifiable because of the obi strip that bands all "complete" albums.
japanese cd's are, likewise, generally remastered versions but done on the same aluminum blanks as the "originals." many of these cd's are remastered a little "hot" or bright for my tastes. i therefore generally avoid purchasing such cd's unless i know they are "collectable" (e.g., all the beatles albums) or are "japanese only" recordings (e.g., collections of paul simon and bruce springsteen, particularly live asian concerts). in my view, it is not generally worth the premium charged to buy japanese cd's that are mere "copies" of other pressings; there are exceptions, as noted, but best be aware of what you covet. good listening. -kelly
japanese cd's are, likewise, generally remastered versions but done on the same aluminum blanks as the "originals." many of these cd's are remastered a little "hot" or bright for my tastes. i therefore generally avoid purchasing such cd's unless i know they are "collectable" (e.g., all the beatles albums) or are "japanese only" recordings (e.g., collections of paul simon and bruce springsteen, particularly live asian concerts). in my view, it is not generally worth the premium charged to buy japanese cd's that are mere "copies" of other pressings; there are exceptions, as noted, but best be aware of what you covet. good listening. -kelly