Discogs is a "go to" site for LPs. An easy recommendation! I have made most of my LP purchase from eBay. I am happy to report no problems so far buying from different sellers.
LP Vinyl: Quality, Pressing, Label, Weight, Where to Buy ???
Getting back into LP vinyl...its been a long time = mid 70s? Searching for an educational review on the forum for buying decent quality vinyl LPs...an overview of quality, weight, pressing, label, and best source/location to purchasing (prefer to stay away from ebay as it seems to be hit/miss on what you get). Does anyone have suggestions for an educational review on the subject?
As a discussion point...I was looking at buying an older LP (vinyl only); I did an internet search = "Faces" - The First Step Album. Online search produces numerous results with prices from $18 to $120...older, used, remakes/repressed, various quality ratings (is there a uniform rating scale), unopened...list goes on.
Greatly appreciate the forums experience and insight!
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Chesky and Phillips pressed in Netherlands have been very reliable Discogs purchases. The pressing quality is far better than what I’m seeing on many of my new reissues. I’m convinced that 180 - 200 gm vinyl is part of the problem, as I’ve heard that it’s difficult to maintain the correct temperature. I’ve had to return some of these recently due to crackly distortion, some of it cyclical, and additionally I see scuffs which are evidence of rough handling. I have yet to be impressed by digital on vinyl. They sound lifeless and harsh for the most part. |
@jasonbourne52 nailed it.
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There is no end to the discussion of original pressing vs re issues. I for one have had very poor experience buying used vinyl. The odds of finding a used LP that does not have some damage are slim. An LP can appear to be pristine, not a mark on it and still sound terrible when played. Then you have the re issue. New LP's that have been re mastered from the original tapes and properly pressed should be indistinguishable from the original, or at least so close that most of us are not going to hear anything but beautiful music. Many companies like Blue Note, RCA and Deutsche Grammophon are mining their vaults for opportunities to re monetize their assets. We are not the beneficiaries of this exercise. Pristine re issues of great music. Are they all gems? No. You still get poor pressings and damaged goods but that should not deter you in your quest to build a library of great vinyl. My personal recommendation is buy through Amazon. First, they have an incredible amount of re issues and re masters on both vinyl and CD. For example, RCA produced a remastered box set of the 7 albums Paul Desmond recorded on their label. Each disc packaged in a cardboard sleeve with original cover artwork and liner notes. $35. About the average cost on one new LP. Secondly, if you are not happy with the product they will refund your money and ship the product back at no cost to you. Happy hunting. |
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