THE BEATLES WHITE ALBUM APPLE UK FIRST MONO No. 0185024 COMPLETE BRILLIANT AUDIO

	£		445
	$		590

PLEASE NOTE: IN SOME OF THE PHOTOGRAPHS IN MY LISTINGS YOU MAY SEE SLIGHT 'SHADOWING OR DARKER PATCHES' AND 'COLOUR INCONSISTENCIES'. THIS IS DUE TO EITHER AN ABERRATION OF MY CAMERA LENS OR CHANGING LIGHT CONDITIONS AND, UNLESS I MAKE A POINT OF STATING OTHERWISE, YOU CAN ASSUME THAT IN REALITY THESE DO NOT EXIST.

An Important Foreword Regarding Condition & Grading: Previous visitors to my listings will know that I offer albums which range from 'very good plus' to 'near mint' in terms of condition. I don’t restrict my offerings to just near mint, and I don’t just call everything great or excellent plus regardless of condition. Occasionally a rare album turns up which in some respects grades 'very good plus' but in other ways is outstanding so providing each of the features are individually and accurately graded - and I take great care with this - I am happy to offer it for sale. However, all vinyl albums I offer are at least highly presentable and deliver enjoyable audio, and most are much better than that. If you are intending to bid please read my comments, observations and individual gradings and check that you are satisfied before placing your bid.

Vinyl Cleaning: I use machine cleaning only when my ‘ear’ tells me that the audio performance has deteriorated by exposure over time and will obviously be returned closer to the original sound by using this method. If I think a vinyl will benefit from this I carry out the procedure with great care, but I do not clean vinyls for the sake of it - many I offer for sale have had little use and although there can be slight contamination in the grooves, even when new, that is the original authentic sound. My preferred method with little used vinyls is by soft ‘light touch’ hand brush with natural fine hair gently moved in the direction of the microgrooves. Where appropriate I use a mild solution of isopropyl alcohol with a spot of gentle detergent to lubricate and clean the playing surfaces. I am aware that cleaning can be a controversial subject with vinyl collectors, audio purists and enthusiasts so I will state on each individual listing if, and how, the vinyl(s) have been cleaned just after the ‘Vinyl Visual Grade’.

Specific notes regarding grading and description: The first section of each listing summarises the album offered, contributors and format followed by the ‘provenance’ in terms of the matrix – mother – stamper trail which determines the ‘position’ of a record in the pressing process. The dedicated sections which follow explain why I consider the particular album to be rare and / or special, accompanied by my comments and observations, and then deals with the grading of each aspect of it accompanied by a brief description. My assessment of the appropriate grade for each component is based on Record Collector ‘Rare Record Price Guide 2020’. The essential ‘play grade’ and ‘audio performance’ report rounds up the description just prior to the ‘general notes’, which is the same on all of my listings. I hope that this layout, including the extensive photo gallery, will prevent bidders from overlooking key points in their evaluation. Please read the following description and take a careful look at the comprehensive photographs which show the actual item clearly and provide an informative and accurate representation.

When I mention age in my listings it is not an excuse for poor condition but as a matter of fact. I do not regard condition as age related, it is primarily dependent on care, and if you ever see something described as ‘good for its age’ I recommend you avoid it because more often than not it’s an excuse for something that has not been carefully used.

I do not use photographs to enhance albums; they are included as an aid to bidders and I always ‘frame’ the shots to highlight any flaws or blemishes – not to bleach out, obscure or avoid them. My photo galleries always feature photos taken from as many angles as reasonably possible, with ‘zoom’ and ‘enlarge’ facilities, because I want visitors to have the best opportunity to examine visual condition. I always request the maximum photo facility from the eBay system but I have noticed that on some occasions, presumably due to technical glitches, the ‘zoom’ and ‘enlarge’ does not work. If you ever have any difficulty obtaining satisfactory images from my listings please contact me via a message to the listing and I will send you more photographs as an attachment to my reply.

Album / Record Title: THE BEATLES aka THE WHITE ALBUM No. 0185024

Artiste(s): THE BEATLES – John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, Ringo Starr

Track Listing: Please see label photographs for full details

Produced By: George Martin

Cover maker / designer / format / construction: UK original first Limited Edition issue numbered 0185024 made by Garrod & Lofthouse International., concept by Richard Hamilton, photography by John Kelly, design by Richard Hamilton, double entry top loading gatefold with fold over flaps onto the left and right edges of the centre spread, heavy duty card construction, fully laminated. N.B. It is worth noting that this particular example retains first rate structural integrity – these are often found with uneven / wavy surfaces, or misaligned and wrinkled, but this is outstanding in the way it has maintained straightness and flatness – there is just one line of superficial linear creasing which runs down the right hand panel of the centre spread but it is not significant or even particularly noticeable.

Disc Format & Playing Speed: 2 x 12” LPs’ & 33 1/3 r.p.m.

Recording Format: MONO

Record label: ORIGINAL 'HALF' APPLE WITH DARK GREEN SIDE 1 / GREY-WHITE SIDE 2, ‘matt black lightly dimpled surround’ with ‘Sold in U.K.’ text, ‘Mfd. In U.K.’ text, ‘All Rights…’ & ‘Unauthorised Public Performance…’ text, EMI credits on all four labels and 'KT' UK purchase tax code embossed either side of the spindle hole on side 2.

Catalogue Number(s): PMC 7067 & PMC 7068

Country of origin and first published date: U.K. 1968 (22nd. November)

Vinyl ‘run off’ matrix Record 1 side 1: XEX 709-1

Vinyl ‘run off’ matrix Record 1 side 2: XEX 710-1

Vinyl ‘run off’ matrix Record 2 side 3: XEX 711-1

Vinyl ‘run off’ matrix Record 2 side 4: XEX 712-1

Vinyl ‘run off’ mother Record 1 side 1: 2 (there is also a vague imprint of another number beneath it but this is most likely an error and the '2' is the mother)

Vinyl ‘run off’ mother Record 1 side 2: 3

Vinyl ‘run off’ mother Record 2 side 3: 8

Vinyl ‘run off’ mother Record 2 side 4: 2

Vinyl ‘run off’ stamper Record 1 side 1: GMP

Vinyl ‘run off’ stamper Record 1 side 2: AG

Vinyl ‘run off’ stamper Record 2 side 3: GGR

Vinyl ‘run off’ stamper Record 2 side 4: OL

Vinyl ‘run off’ initials / cryptic / other identifiers Record 1 side 1: none visible

Vinyl ‘run off’ initials / cryptic / other identifiers Record 1 side 2: none visible

Vinyl ‘run off’ initials / cryptic / other identifiers Record 2 side 3: none visible

Vinyl ‘run off’ initials / cryptic / other identifiers Record 2 side 4: none visible

N.B. Please note that all matrices, mothers and stampers quoted in my listings are machine imprinted except where I state an alternative method next to them.

IMPORTANT NOTE ON AUTHENTICITY: BEFORE EXPLAINING MY OPINION OF RARITY AND DESCRIBING THE ALBUM I WANT TO MAKE IT CLEAR THAT ALL OF THE COMPONENT PARTS OF THIS ALBUM ARE GUARANTEED TO BE UK ORIGINAL FIRST ISSUE FROM THE FIRST UK RELEASE IN NOVEMBER 1968 – NONE OF THE ALBUMS I OFFER EVER CONTAIN ANY MIXING & MATCHING, NO MODERN DAY REPLACEMENTS, NO FAKES, NO COUNTERFEITS.

Rarity / Observations / Comments: EXTREMELY RARE AS ONE OF THE EARLY ORIGINAL UNIQUELY NUMBERED COMPLETE UK FIRST MONO PRESS, FIRST ISSUE ALBUMS IN EXCELLENT OR BETTER CONDITION THROUGHOUT – There are a number of factors and features which justify UK pressed and numbered copies of ‘The White Album’ being described as rare. The outer cover designed by pop artist Richard Hamilton was an intentional contrast to it's predecessor, the vividly colourful 'Sgt. Pepper's', and a spoof on ‘limited editions’, being plain white and numbered - subsequently and ironically becoming one of the ‘largest limited editions’ ever produced. This is one of the earlier UK first pressings, first issues - the UK production capacity was about 100,000 per week, and advance orders were around 250,000, so at 0185024 it would have been made prior to the release date ready for distribution to the record shops on the first day of UK release. All of the numbered copies with the key first issue characteristics, described below, and which have survived in first rate condition like this - which are relatively few - have become especially collectable. Research suggests that about 5,000,000 numbered copies have been produced worldwide, and 30,000,000 sold in total – BUT THERE IS ONLY ONE UK ORIGINAL FIRST MONO PRESSING NUMBERED 0185024 AND THIS IS IT……….SO IT IS, BY ANY MEASURE, A VERY SPECIAL AND UNIQUE ALBUM.

In summary the outer Gatefold Cover is the original ‘mono’ top loader by Garrod & Lofthouse International which has a tendency to develop an ‘ivory’ tint as a result of exposure to daylight. This particular example has discoloured a little in that way and although the photographs show a reasonably accurate representation of how it looks overall it is slightly more 'ivory' than they imply – closer to the photograph of the centre spread. How you regard this discolouration is, of course, subjective but my opinion is that it is the same as any elegant ageing process which occurs with antiques or vintage collectables - it is not damage, and not detrimental – I think in a small measure, like this, it has a certain charm and adds to the authenticity. The title THE BEATLES is EMBOSSED under the laminate and angled slightly upward, all as it should be, on the bottom right quadrant of the front cover above the LIMITED EDITION NUMBER, in this case No. 0185024 - which is lightly INDENTED and angled slightly downwards. The UK ORIGINAL G & L gatefold cover has fold over flaps to the left and right edges of the centre spread; it is FULLY LAMINATED and printed on the spine with the title and catalogue numbers (the ‘stereo’ dedicated gatefolds have the ‘stereo’ designation on the back in the top right corner – obviously this early mono does not have that).

N.B. People who are familiar with the 'The White Album' will know just how difficult it is to find a clean, tidy and fully intact original numbered gatefold cover. I have handled a lot of 'White Albums' through the years and it is pertinent for me to emphasise that this is one of the better gatefolds I have had. Although not perfectly white, which as I have just explained is not particularly important to me, it has all the credentials of a first rate, high quality, vintage piece – it is well made, well preserved, looks good and feels good. There are very few indents, the laminate still retains a high gloss finish, the spine is in excellent condition, again one of the better examples I have seen, with just the laminate split in a zigzag pattern in the centre for about 9 centimetres, but no spreading and no damage to the spine – the text is fully readable - and everything about this impressive original gatefold cover is reassuringly coherent and genuine.

The inner sleeves are soft BLACK paper single side die cut with one circular ‘window’ at the front and closed at the back, lightly textured internal surfaces and smoother outer surfaces.

Both HEAVY VINYLS (145 & 139 grammes – a highly impressive matched pair from the earliest first pressings of this album) in the ORIGINAL MONO format were pressed from the FIRST -1 -1 -1 -1 MATRIX SET THROUGH VERY EARLY MOTHERS AND STAMPERS – all of this information is machine imprinted into the vinyl run-off area on each side of the two records and reproduced above for your reference.

The original 'half' an apple labels are dark green on sides 1 & 3 and grey-white on sides 2 & 4, they have the ‘Sold in U. K.’ text and other text consistent with first pressings including the EMI credits on all four sides.

The INSERTS are all present and correct - all FOUR PHOTOGRAPHS (each 20 x 29 centimetres or about 8 x 11.5 inches) on the original THICK PHOTO CARD, not the later thin card (the plain white piece of paper used to protect the face of the 'top' photograph, sometimes referred to incorrectly as the 'spacer' is not included in this case) – and the large PHOTO-MONTAGE with LYRIC SHEET on the back (size 57 x 87 centimetres or about 22.5 x 33.5 inches).

These uniquely numbered UK original first issues ‘in excellent and better condition’ are quickly being locked into cherished collections and consequently fast diminishing in terms of availability. THIS IS AN OUTSTANDING EXAMPLE OF ONE OF THE GREATEST CLASSICS - HIGHLY PRESENTABLE AND THOROUGHLY ENJOYABLE IN EVERY WAY and I recommend it to anybody who has a serious interest in having one to collect, play and enjoy.

MY GRADING OF THIS ALBUM based on Record Collector ‘Rare Record Price Guide 2020’ (**n.b. please note that I grade accurately backed up by a description. I neither over-exaggerate nor under-exaggerate. I see no point in grading an item with multiple ++++ marks, or under-grading it and then stating that it should be graded better - I consider these methods to be confusing. I use the Record Collector system with either TOWARDS PLUS or a FULL PLUS to indicate variations above a grade. I have dropped the ‘minus’ indicator in favour of the next full grade down because I find that many sellers use the ‘minus’ as a method of implying a higher grade than is strictly deserved and I do not want to want to be associated with that practise. I always include a full set of super-sized photographs to provide bidders with the best possible opportunity to make their own visual assessment of each album in conjunction with my detailed descriptions.

Cover – front surface: EXCELLENT PLUS ~ a very impressive frontage with clean embossed title and clear 'unique number' - it has just slight ivory discolouration I have discussed earlier in the listing and a short hairline scratch above the embossed title in the top right quadrant (barely noticeable) – please see photographs.

Cover – back surface: EXCELLENT PLUS ~ similar to the front with no significant faults and just a tiny spot in the top right quadrant which is under the laminate so must have been there from new (a minor fleck / flaw in the card probably).

Cover – corners: EXCELLENT TO PLUS ~ just slight tip end rub wear.

Cover – left & right seams: EXCELLENT PLUS ~ no significant wear.

Cover – bottom seams: EXCELLENT PLUS ~ no significant wear.

Cover – leading / entry edges: EXCELLENT TO PLUS ~ far better than most you will see (they are more often than not frayed and very dirty) these have just mini-indents and very slight pick up, otherwise they just show very minor signs of wear and are first rate.

Cover - centre spread: EXCELLENT ~ there is a superficial crease line which runs down the right panel, top to bottom, one third of the way across from the centre fold. It has almost certainly been there from new, probably caused during the manufacturing process but it does not show in the photograph and is not very noticeable in reality.

Cover – spine: EXCELLENT ~ which, in my experience is an outstanding grade for a spine on a 'White Album' – they have a tendency to collect dust, through the open ends under the laminate, which compacts over time obscuring the text and causing them to go dark brown. Also, the laminate tends to split and peel along the length sometimes peeling and attracting significant discolouration. This one has avoided almost all of those pitfalls - there is a 9 centimetre zigzag split in the laminate at the centre, but there's no damage to the spine itself, it has retained integrity, and, as you can see, the text remains fully and clearly readable.....overall this is a first rate spine.

Cover – overall grade: EXCELLENT TO PLUS ~ and, in my opinion, a strong example of that grade which is very hard to achieve with a 'White Album'. This is alongside the best originals I have seen - please see the full selection of photographs which illustrate the written description.

Vinyl Visual record 1 side 1: EXCELLENT TO PLUS ~ a relatively small number of superficial surface scratches caused by bag movement and light stylus contact but nothing I can feel with light fingertip touch and there is nothing which has any significant affect on play or sound reproduction, which is brilliant – please read the play grade below for full details.

Vinyl Visual record 1 side 2: EXCELLENT TO PLUS ~ a relatively small number of superficial surface scratches caused by bag movement and light stylus contact but nothing I can feel with light fingertip touch and there is nothing which has any significant affect on play or sound reproduction, which is brilliant – please read the play grade below for full details.

Vinyl Visual record 2 side 3: EXCELLENT TO PLUS ~ a relatively small number of superficial surface scratches caused by bag movement and light stylus contact but nothing I can feel with light fingertip touch and there is nothing which has any significant affect on play or sound reproduction, which is brilliant – please read the play grade below for full details.

Vinyl Visual record 2 side 4: EXCELLENT TO PLUS ~ a relatively small number of superficial surface scratches caused by bag movement and light stylus contact but nothing I can feel with light fingertip touch and there is nothing which has any significant affect on play or sound reproduction, which is brilliant – please read the play grade below for full details.

Vinyl Warp: nothing significant when eye tested on a moving turntable.

Vinyl Weight: record 1: 145 grammes & record 2: 139 grammes (two highly impressive APPLE heavyweights)

Vinyl Cleaning: By hand only, light touch soft brush, very little required.

Label Visual record 1 side 1: EXCELLENT PLUS ~ light spindle trace lines around the spindle hole, no extraneous marks or damage.

Label Visual record 1 side 2: EXCELLENT PLUS ~ light spindle trace lines around the spindle hole, no extraneous marks or damage.

Label Visual record 2 side 3: EXCELLENT PLUS ~ light spindle trace lines around the spindle hole, no extraneous marks or damage.

Label Visual record 2 side 4: EXCELLENT PLUS ~ light spindle trace lines around the spindle hole, no extraneous marks or damage.

N.B. Please note that I make no adjustment or allowance in grading for minor marks, slight shrinkage marks, stretch marks / lines on labels, misalignment or marginal print bleed caused in original pressing; these features are quite normal and in my opinion are individual characteristics – not defects.

Inner Sleeves: EXCELLENT TO PLUS ~ a very nice pair of original first issue black inner sleeves made from their interior textured soft black paper. They are both remarkably well preserved. Very slight signs of age and use and I have carefully repaired a short split at the centre of one of the side seams in such a way that I doubt it would be noticed, overall, originals are rarely found as good as these (n.b. all records I sell are shipped in separate new plain white inners with fixed or removable anti-static liners – the 'empty' original inner sleeves are always included).

Photograph Inserts: EXCELLENT TO PLUS ~ this is a fine set of original photographs with just a few light scratches and very tiny corner bumps, no pinholes, no tape marks - probably as good as can be found these days. - please see photographs.

Lyric / Photo-montage Poster: VERY GOOD PLUS ~ a highly presentable original, it shows signs of handling and use, but it has never been hung so no pinholes or tape marks. Some slight thinning on the folds but no significant separation, superficial surface creasing and some light brown foxing / almost transparent brown stains – but they are not intrusive. Overall a nice example of a UK original.

Play Grade: I consider all aspects of an albums condition and grading to be highly important and none more so than the quality of the audio delivery; superior audio performance is, above all, the main reasons for listening to vinyl. For this reason I have decided to extend my play grade to rate separately how ‘clearly’ and ‘cleanly’ the sound is received. With vinyl the listener can experience almost perfect ‘clarity’ and reality without the sound being perfectly ‘clean’ due to the fact that this is a medium where physical contact is unavoidable and the ‘finish’ in the original pressing process could vary during the course of a production run. Other factors can make very small differences: for example - lack of use, environment or type of equipment can cause variations in cleanliness. Therefore, where my cleanliness grade is lower, based on the conditions prevailing at the time I carried out my audio test, with careful use this is likely to improve.

A NOTE ON AUDIO GRADING: I REGARD PLAY GRADING RECORDS AS A PLEASURE RATHER THAN A TASK, BUT EVEN WITH MY EXPERIENCE IT IS SOMETIMES DIFFICULT TO TREAD THE FINE LINE THAT WEAVES ITS WAY BETWEEN THE VARIATIONS IN DIFFERENT LISTENERS EXPECTATIONS AND / OR THE EQUIPMENT AND CONDITIONS WHICH PREVAIL IN DIFFERENT ENVIRONMENTS. I SET OUT IN THE ‘GENERAL NOTES’ SECTION BELOW THE TYPE OF EQUIPMENT I USE AND, AS I MENTIONED IN THE PREVIOUS PARAGRAPH, I DO FIND THAT LIGHTLY USED UNDAMAGED VINYLS OFTEN IMPROVE SIGNIFICANTLY WITH PLAY. HOWEVER, UNLESS I GRADE A RECORD AS A NEAR MINT ‘DOUBLE’ FOR CLARITY AND CLEANLINESS THERE IS ALWAYS THE CHANCE OF A RANDOM ‘POP’, ‘TICK’ OR LOW LEVEL SURFACE SOUND (EVEN WITH NEAR MINT AND NEW RECORDS THERE IS THE POSSIBILITY OF LIGHT TRANSITIONAL SURFACE SOUND). SO, PLEASE ALWAYS ASSUME THAT THERE WILL BE SOME EVIDENCE OF THIS BEING A MEDIUM WHICH RELIES ON PHYSICAL CONTACT AND THEREFORE BY DEFINITION CANNOT BE ABSOLUTELY FLAWLESS. CLARITY AND REALITY OF SOUND IS THE REASON THAT MOST PEOPLE CHOOSE TO LISTEN TO ANALOGUE RECORDINGS FROM VINYL AND THAT IS WHAT I STRIVE TO PROVIDE. EQUALLY, I UNDERSTAND THAT NOBODY ENJOYS NASTY SURPRISES SO YOU CAN BE SURE THAT I WILL ALWAYS AIM TO HIGHLIGHT ANY MINOR DEFECTS AND EXPLAIN THEIR AFFECT ON THE AUDIO REPRODUCTION.

For CLARITY the audio from this vinyl grades: NEAR MINT

For CLEANLINESS the audio from this vinyl grades: EXCELLENT TO PLUS

Audio Performance: USUALLY WHEN I PLAY GRADE A WHITE ALBUM I DO SO BY DESCRIBING EACH OF THE FOUR SIDES AND MAKE NOTES OF ANY MINOR BLEMISHES OR INTRUSIONS BECAUSE THERE CAN BE MINOR DIFFERENCES BETWEEN THE SIDES. HOWEVER, IN THIS CASE THAT IS NOT NECESSARY BECAUSE ALL FOUR SIDES ARE SUPERB AND DELIVER OUTSTANDING AUDIO OF GREAT CLARITY AND QUALITY. THE CLARITY IS UNDOUBTEDLY NEAR MINT AND THE CLEANLINESS IS ONLY GRADED A FRACTION LOWER DUE TO AN OCCASIONAL RANDOM LIGHT LOW LEVEL TICK FROM TIME TO TIME, WHICH IS BARELY NOTICEABLE. THERE IS NOTHING SIGNIFICANT WHICH DEMANDS CRITICISM OR A SPECIFIC MENTION. PLEASE BEAR IN MIND THAT THIS SECTION AND THE GRADING IS BASED ENTIRELY ON MY PERSONAL OPINION AND AUDIO PERCEPTION BELONGS TO THE INDIVIDUAL – BUT THIS IS ONE OF THE BEST EXAMPLES OF 'THE WHITE ALBUM' THAT I HAVE HEARD, THE AUDIO DELIVERY IS SIMPLY SENSATIONAL, AND IT SHOULD MEET THE BEST EXPECTATIONS OF ANY BUYER WHO RELIES ON MY DESCRIPTION.

PLEASE TAKE A LOOK AT MY OTHER LISTINGS BY CLICKING ON THE ‘VIEW SELLERS OTHER ITEMS’ IN THE TOP RIGHT HAND CORNER BOX OF THIS LISTING - THANK YOU.

GENERAL NOTES

Thank you for visiting my listing. The section immediately above sets out information specific to the particular album / record offered in this listing. Below are some of my general comments about vinyl which you may want to browse through if you have time. Please feel free to email me with any related comments or observations; particularly if you have any reliable information which contradicts any of my descriptions as I am always interested in adding to my knowledge on this subject. When preparing my listings I use a combination of facts from reliable sources, more than forty years of personal experience and, occasionally, music industry anecdotes.

Just a visual inspection of used vinyls is almost always misleading so I play grade every vinyl I offer, before listing, on a LINN SONDEK LP12 deck fitted with a LINN KARMA cartridge down-force set at 17.5 mN (1.75 g) and a top quality stylus which I renew at intervals according to manufacturers specification, through a PRO-JECT Phono Box DS Preamplifier and manufacturers pre-set REGA BRIO amplifier with sound delivered through FOCAL CHORUS 706 loudspeakers - this is a brilliant and revealing combination enabling me to be informative with play grading.

Although it is extremely rare, there can be a difference between my descriptions, and opinions, and an individual buyer’s expectations so I have a clearly stated Returns Policy for added reassurance which is detailed at the bottom of all my listings. In the unlikely event that you want to use this facility please read the details carefully first, and then contact me to agree the procedure. There really will never be a reason to have any problem with an item you purchase from me. Before bidding please read my terms and conditions of sale below which are there to inform bidders and prevent any misunderstandings.

First Issues, First Pressings & Originals: Please note that when I refer to a First Issue I mean that the evidence suggests that the album offered is from the first batch that was issued for commercial release in the country of origin stated in the listing. Where I state First Press I mean that based on a reasonable interpretation of the matrices, mothers and stamper codes the vinyl comes from the first, or extended first, production run; these statements alone do not always mean that the vinyl is from the very first ’stamper’ ever made. However, where I state First Issue and First Press it is likely that the album offered includes one (or more) of the early vinyl(s) produced in the country of origin from the first matrix sets, first or early ‘mother(s)’ and first or early ‘stamper(s)’. Original means that the record bears the first label design for that particular pressing and, in the case of the cover, it is from the first cover manufacturer for that pressing; the label and / or cover may have very slight changes, if they were made within the first production run or, if the album was issued with an ‘in run’ label change or choice of cover designs or colours on first release, but in these cases I will try and explain the differences. This is not an exact science and anomalies will occur where I may make a mistake but I believe this will not happen very often - if it does then all of my buyers have the unequivocal reassurance of my Comprehensive Returns Policy.

My definition of a rare vinyl: Generally there is agreement that to qualify for the description rare there should not be too many of the type offered, available on the market at the time. With my listings that will be the main criterion however I will also occasionally claim rarity based on excellence of condition, or some other key feature, or an accompanying item such as an insert, which is not often found with similar vinyls.

UK first and early pressings: In many cases inexperienced sellers claim first pressing status without knowledge or evidence in the hope of achieving high prices – experienced buyers will know better and avoid those offers. Of course with the more popular huge selling albums, where the record companies were fairly sure of major sales from the outset, there were many first pressings. Also, in cases where demand was sustained or emerging the first press run was maintained over an extended release period; in other cases the first press run was specific. Generally the lower the numbers in the matrices and stamper codes on the vinyl ‘run off’ areas, on both sides of a record, the earlier the pressing therefore ‘A1’ & ‘B1’ are most often first or early pressings, but there are variants and exceptions to the rule. The most notable ones, for example where the ‘1’ matrix was only used for test, promo or industry pressings so the commercial releases started at ‘2’ or even higher, and there are a few more observations which are worth noting. There are low numbered matrices which belong to second and even third pressings (in these cases the record companies gave similar numbers to the first press of a re-issue) you can normally identify these by, examining the labels which are often different in texture and/or design, and by checking the weight of the record as the earlier pressings were normally heavier. Sometimes different symbols were used in the matrices; these may indicate an earlier pressing, a contract pressing or just simply a change of format. For example some records have A?1 & B?1 others A // 1 & B // 1 others A-1 & B-1 and so on. In these cases the mother and stamper references can help with establishing the proximity of an individual record to the original recording – each different record company had their own coding system, some using letters from words to indicate numbers, others just using numbers. Better known examples include GRAMOPHLTD & BUCKINGHAM – used by EMI and DECCA respectively. Occasionally there are high numbers on first pressings, but this is unusual. Other points to note are the manufacturer of the ‘cover’ or ‘outer sleeve’ and various characteristics or design variants. The ‘inner sleeve’ or ‘bag’ can also be an indicator. However it is not wise to rely on details beyond the matrices and labels as the covers and sleeves can easily be interchanged. ‘Made Up’, Swapped’ or ‘Doctored’ sets are not uncommon, particularly with high value albums which have inserts and special text, so the best advice is to try and make sure that everything matches the criteria thus eliminating most of the risk (a good look at the photographs on the listing, if they are of the actual item offered as they are on all of my listings, is always advisable – hopefully the sellers will also include the ‘zoom’ and ‘enlarge’ photograph facility which only costs pennies to include and it remains a mystery to me as to why many avoid this service?). As a general rule I suggest that you don’t pay hundred’s or thousands of pounds unless you are buying from a reliable source who provide you with comprehensive information and have a clearly stated ‘Returns Policy’ - or unless you’ve got money to throw away (and in that case there are any number of far more deserving charities).

Audio reproduction on vinyl: In my experience there is always an element of surface or background sound with audio reproduction on vinyl, even when new - very hard to imagine how there could not be when two solid surfaces come into contact with each other and are then amplified! In my opinion anybody who claims there is no surface sound, or ‘silence’, is hard of hearing, has not turned the amplifier on, or is using very poor quality audio equipment. Almost all used vinyl has at least light surface scratches which are always visible when viewed under a bright halogen light - which is what I use for inspection. So if you are uncomfortable with a bit of light crackling it’s probably best not to buy vinyl. In my opinion the light surface sound is more than compensated for by the clarity and ‘reality’ of the overall sound reproduction. I listen carefully to every album I list, before listing it for sale.

Please Note: All of the comment contained in this listing is subjective, it is based only on my opinion and your expectations may not necessarily correspond with my standards. If you receive an album from me and you have some differences please remember to use reasonable communication as a first option. I have a comprehensive non confrontational ‘Returns Policy’ which is clearly set out below and providing there is no abuse, or use the negative feedback system, I will always reimburse you in full for your direct costs if you return the album correctly.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SALE

DESCRIPTIONS: Are given in good faith, but they are based on my opinion and standards. Bidders should note that they offer at their own risk and must satisfy themselves that they have sufficient information about the item before they enter the bidding process. Please ask questions before you become involved with the auction, NOT afterwards! Where I list sizes/dimensions they are either as stated on the item/label by the supplier/manufacturer or reasonably accurately hand tape measured; however, they are not necessarily precise, should be taken as approximate and not relied upon where absolute precision is required. This clause does not in any way affect your rights under the terms of my ‘Returns Policy’, it is stated to prevent unnecessary inconvenience to both parties.

INFORMATION: Whilst I take care to try and provide accurate information on the original listing it is possible that new information may become available to me afterwards. I therefore strongly recommend that all bidders read any revisions and the ongoing questions / answers section of the listing before bidding as they may contain updated information which could affect your valuation of the item(s). In the event that new information is published, after the time you have become the high bidder, which adversely affects your valuation of the item(s) and you wish to withdraw from the bidding process please email your request and I will use the cancel bid option with no ongoing liability to any of the parties involved in the auction.

PHOTOGRAPHS: All photographs contained within this listing show the actual item (s) offered – they are not catalogue, archive or library photographs. Furthermore they are direct images and not re-touched or modified in any way. I try to make good and comprehensive use of images on the listing in order to give the prospective bidder the best opportunity to evaluate the item(s); however it is possible that in some circumstances the photographs can enhance the appearance of the item(s) due to compression so please take this into account before bidding and do not hesitate to ask for more images or information which I am happy to send by attachment to email. This is particularly recommended with overseas buyers where returns are often not a viable option.

OVERSEAS BUYERS WELCOME: I am pleased to deal with buyers from anywhere in the world. My method of LP packaging reduces the risk to your valuable vinyls & covers in transit. Makes no sense to me to buy something important and then play a ‘high risk of damage game’ when having it shipped around the world – I hope you feel the same. I will only dispatch using a fully insured and Signed-for delivery service.

PACKING & POSTAGE: Vinyl’s are removed from covers and placed in separate transit sleeves. All components are then placed side by side in a polythene inner for extra safety and water resistance and then secured between two corrugated card stiffeners. I use Heavy Duty Mailers Specifically Designed for Vinyl Albums, which provide excellent security and protection, in conjunction with my own Ultra Safe reinforced sealing and packaging method. Internally I use 2 of the highest grade ‘B’ flute corrugated card stiffeners to prevent bending, deformation or edge/corner creasing. Packing & postage prices are NOT negotiable on items dispatched individually or separately. However, if you are a similar time multiple buyer where all items purchased are being sent to the same address and they can be combined safely, you can ask for a discounted quotation before bidding. I will only dispatch using a fully insured and Signed-for delivery service.

Postal insurance is subject to Royal Mail Standard Terms & Conditions. Quotations for other insurance such as premiums to cover non-standard risks or consequential losses are available on request.

PAYMENT: For Buyers WITHIN the UK: PayPal, or Pound sterling cheques / money orders, with minimum 7 days to clear before despatch.

PAYMENT: For Buyers OUTSIDE of the UK: Payments by PayPal only please.

CANCELLATION: The Seller reserves the right to cancel any bid, entirely at his discretion and without giving prior notice, in the following circumstances:

They have reason to believe that the bidder has not complied with the terms of their offer as set out on the listing.

The bidder’s feedback is of such limited quantity that it cannot be regarded as reliable.

The bidder’s feedback is of dubious quality and/or gives the seller any indication or reason to doubt the credibility of the bid.

MY FEEDBACK POLICY: I leave feedback for buyers after they inform me that they have received the item(s) and have left me their feedback. As I have a clearly stated Returns Policy, which does not expose the buyer to any direct loss whatsoever, I see no reason for either side to indulge in negative feedback. Providing the buyer does not engage in threats, abuse or use of negative feedback I will resolve any problem in a fair and reasonable way. If you have a problem or complaint about any transaction you have made with me please contact me via the eBay messaging system and we will find a solution that is acceptable to you.

SUPERSIZED PHOTOGRAPHS: I have super-sized the photographs above to provide prospective bidders with the best opportunity to make their valuation before entering the bidding process, please just click on the ‘Zoom or Enlarge’ and arrows to use this facility. Sometimes due to reflection these images can appear slightly distorted, ‘graining’ can appear and dust particles can be exaggerated by the light - in reality there are no defects of this kind.