If you're a fan of vinyl records, you've probably heard the term "original pressing" or "first pressing" before. But what does that mean, and why should you care? Here's a quick rundown on original pressings and why they matter to collectors and audiophiles.
What is an original pressing?
To put it simply, an original pressing is the very first run of vinyl records for a particular album. First pressings are often highly sought-after by collectors and audiophiles because they're usually of better quality than subsequent pressings.
The reason for this is that the molds used to create vinyl records wear out over time, so each successive pressing tends to be of slightly lower quality than the one before it.
Why are original pressings generally better quality?
Of course, there are exceptions to this rule. Some later pressings can be of equal or even higher quality than early pressings, depending on the care and attention that went into their production. But in general, original pressings are considered to be the best-sounding versions of an album.
So, if you're looking to start or expand your vinyl collection, keep an eye out for original or first pressings. Not only will you be getting a piece of music history, but you'll also be getting the best-sounding version of the album.
The primary reason to buy First Pressings.
First pressings are often the most sought-after albums because they have better sound quality than reissues. This is important to many people, but not all of them can tell the difference between a first pressing and an issue in good condition!
I'm sure you're one such audiophile who won't be able to hear any different with your average ear...but if fine-tuned listening matters more than anything else then go ahead & buy yourself some vintage vinyl today ;)
In order to achieve the best sound quality for your record, you must be willing to do extensive research.
Consider the following factors when conducting your research:
- Source (i.e Master Tape, Digital Remaster)
- Mastering Engineer
- Quality and weight of vinyl
- Pressing Plant
Source
There’s an old saying that goes something like this: “you never know what you're going to get until it's gone." This could not be more true when discussing records and their analog counterparts, known collectively as "vinyl."
Records are pressed from original master tapes which results in high quality sound reproduction- so good they'll make your ears tingle with pleasure!
However there might come a point where the only way one can own these albums Available again will involve finding someone who has actually bought them new off store shelves or on eBay
Quality and Weight
The type of vinyl record can make a difference in the sound quality. Heavier records are the less likely to warp and have a better bass response, so if you’re going for an older pressing this might be what you listen through!
Mastering Engineer
You may have heard the term "remastering" before. It's what record labels do to old albums so they can make them sound better than ever! But did you know that sometimes this process changes how an album was originally conceived?
Sometimes it turns out differently from what was expected or wanted by its creators - which could be very upsetting for those people who own original copies of these classic works
Pressing Plant
If you want to find the best vinyl records for your collection, look no further than this list. The location of where they were pressed makes a big difference in quality and sound- so don't forget about that when buying!
Some notable contenders are Japan France Germany or Holland-- but avoid Russia because their releases tend not be very good ) Jamaica AND Brazil though as those countries had many problems with there quality control
Era of Pressing
1970s
The 70's saw a cheaper and more efficient way to produce vinyl called Dynaflex. This included recycled scraps from previous records as well as plastic film that was wrapped around the outside of them, which some say sounded much worse than pure virgin material .
1980s
The 80's were not kind to vinyl. With the rise in popularity for cassette tapes and Compact Discs, sales declined significantly as analog sound became less appealing over time due its sterilization which critics claim was intentional by music companies so their products would appeal more across generations rather than just one specific type or generation .
1990s
Vinyl records were everywhere in the early 90s, and then they just plain disappeared. It's easy to see why there are so many people who want original pressings from that time period; these items have become rare because most pressing plants closed down when demand declined following BMG quitting distribution back in 1997.
2000s
The vinyl renaissance is a great thing, but it comes with some downsides. The demand for records has increased more than the supply and as such there are only about 20 pressing plants in operation right now - which isn't enough considering how much people love their music on wax! It's also caused by outdated machinery being used up until they're nearly broken before getting new ones because no one wants this job anymore (even though you can make good money
Conculsion
So there you have it! These are some of the things you should take into consideration if you're thinking about purchasing original or first vinyl pressings. Do your research and be willing to spend a little extra money in order to get the best quality product available - your ears will thank you for years to come! Thanks for reading! :D