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Hot Stamper - myth or reality?

Can someone please explain to me exactly what is a "hot stamper" LP? I figure that it's an older, original pressing of an album, but so what? If that's the case, then wouldn't every old LP be a hot stamper? Is there something special about a hot stamper pressing that differs from just an ordinary first, or older, pressing?
Some of the prices I've seen here and on other sites (Better****.com)are astronomical (and ridiculous in my opinion).
I'm beginning to think it's all a scam or a marketing ploy with not basis in reality. Unless someone can explain to me why they are better or what's so good about them.
Advice?
ebuzz
qdrone
1,039 posts
 
Every record collector or anyone in pursuit of the best pressings should watch this in it's entirety. A Hot Stamper refers to the level of the volume the presser used the day he cut the master lathe. An amplified volume would in most cases sound better,an under amplified volume makes for a dull flat pressing where as there is a standard industry norm which is used mostly. Micheal Fremer weighs in on this on this link,he also weighs in on why you should avoid Record Club Pressings (Columbia,RCA and BMG)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eKcV430APoo
jeffkleinberg
23 posts
 
I personally believe there are large differences between pressings. This includes record plants of first issues ie monarch vs presswell Sticky Fingers. This is why it is so fun collecting records. I have picked up some "hot stampers" from the bargain bin and they always sound very good. I don't think you need to pay the premium, as these are regular pressings they have just done the work for you. The process of mechanically cutting and pressing records creates very audible differences that imho can change a record from dull and flat to thrilling and involving.
whart's avatar
whart
2,968 posts
 
I have certainly heard the term 'hot' applied to a particular mastering, the best example of which is probably the 'RL' cut of LZII. It sounds dramatically different than every other copy of that record I have heard.
ebuzz OP
104 posts
 
>Qdrone: thanks for that link, great video, plus a good critique of Hot Stampers!
whart's avatar
whart
2,968 posts
 
I didn't watch the video. Does Michael use the term 'hot stampers' in the context of Tom Port's offerings or generically, to refer to recordings that were mastered 'hot'?
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