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The value of of the sealed record.

Like many collectors, I own and collect a number of sealed LP's. However, after my latest acquisition, I got to thinking that perhaps owning a sealed LP isn't that great an idea. Why do we buy sealed LP's?? Well, I guess most of us like the idea that nobody has played the piece before. Unfortunately, I suspect that like many other collectors and music lovers, we leave the piece in question- still sealed. For what reason??? Is it that we are expecting the next collector to value it more highly, therefore using it as an investment vehicle. I think this is a factor is many instances. Problem is, at what point does the sealed LP actually get opened? Do we open it and enjoy the music, do we open it and find the vinyl inside is actually damaged? Do we open it only on special occasions? Are we actually fooling ourselves thinking the sealed LP is in Mint condition?  What is the value of the sealed record to you?

128x128daveyf

Showing 1 response by shoresaudio

shoresaudio's avatar
shoresaudio
20 posts
 
Sealed is the only way to ensure that a record is in good condition. I have bought SO many records from 'reliable' sources, which look mint, but only play VG.

That is my experience also. At least half the used vinyl I buy lately is not satisfactory--it has too much wear (groove burn) to enjoy it.  They can look clean and scratch-free but they do not play well.  With sealed, at least the vinyl is untouched (even if it has other flaws).  I know it won't be worn.

Life is too short for me to buy anything I will not use.  If it's sealed, I open it.  Although I wish I'd bought a dozen or so of those popular limited edition LPs a few years ago that now sell for 2x-3x the original MSRP.  Gotta fund this crazy hobby somehow. ;)
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