Author: Andrew

If you’re an avid vinyl collector, you probably do all you can to keep your records in pristine condition. When it comes to cleaning, can vinyl records get wet? 

Vinyl records can get wet, and water won’t damage them because they’re made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a water-resistant material. However, you should avoid exposing your records to too much water over a prolonged period. In addition, you should avoid getting the label wet. 

The following sections in this article will explain the effect of water when it comes in contact with your vinyl records. I’ll also discuss some of the best ways to clean your vinyl records without water and the reasons behind this. Lastly, the article discusses how to dry vinyl records and what you shouldn’t use to clean them. 

What Happens if Vinyl Records Get Wet?

Vinyl records are made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which is a plastic. Plastics aren’t very absorbent, so most contact with water is harmless. However, polyvinyl chloride isn’t the only material used when making vinyl records.

If you get the label on your vinyl record wet, you may ruin it. The label is made from paper, which is very absorbent. The manufacturer probably used ink on the label, which will most likely smudge once it comes in contact with water. 

In addition, the glue on the label might also begin to lift. 

How To Dry Your Vinyl Records

It is best to use a microfiber cloth to dry your vinyl records. Microfiber cloth is lint-free and made from fibers that are extremely fine. They leave fewer fibers behind than regular cloths. 

Here is the best way to dry your vinyl records: 

1. Gently shake your record to remove the excess water. 
2. Using a clean microfiber cloth, gently wipe (but don’t rub) your record. 
3. Allow it to air dry and only store it back in its sleeve when it’s completely dry. 

How to Clean Your Vinyl Records

There are various ways to clean vinyl records, and if your chosen method involves water, it’s recommended that you use distilled water instead of tap water because the minerals in tap water could remain on the record after you dry it. 

Let’s take a look at some effective yet gentle ways to clean vinyl records: 

Water 

All you need for this method is some distilled water and a microfiber cloth. A microfiber cloth is essential because it won’t leave tiny pieces of lint on your records, and it’s soft enough not to damage the vinyl. 

Here’s what you need to do: 

1. Dip your microfiber cloth into some distilled water.
2. Wring out the excess water. 
3. Wrap the cloth around two fingers and gently wipe your vinyl record. 
4. Repeat this process for the other side of the record.
5. Allow your records to air dry before storing them away. 

Record Cleaning Solution

If your records are particularly dirty, distilled water and a microfiber cloth might not be enough to remove all the dirt and grime. In this case, a record-cleaning solution would be ideal. 

You can buy record cleaning solution online or in specialty music stores. Lasermedia Professional Cleaning Solution from Amazon.com comes in a handy 8 oz (237 ml) spray bottle and will effectively remove dirt build-up from your vinyl. 

If you decide to use a record-cleaning solution, here is what you should do: 

1. Gently wipe the record with a microfiber cloth to remove dust. 
2. Spray some record-cleaning solution onto the record and wait for two minutes. This allows the solution to work its magic on the vinyl. 
3. Wipe the solution off with a microfiber cloth, and allow the record to air dry before storing it. 

Record Cleaning Kit

For a more thorough and professional clean, consider using a record-cleaning kit for your vinyl. 

These kits come with several items, including: 

• A soft velvet brush
• A lint-free cloth
• A bottle of record-cleaning solution

To use a record-cleaning kit, follow the same steps for using a record-cleaning solution, but use the brush to dust your records. 

Record Cleaning Machine

This is probably the most expensive but effective method to clean your vinyl records. However, if you’re serious about preserving your vinyl collection for many years to come, it’s worth the investment. 

These machines also offer protection for the label on your vinyl records. Amazon.com has an instructional video for those who don’t know how the Pro-Ject Record Cleaning Machine works. 

Record Vacuum Wand

Another method for cleaning your vinyl is to use a record vacuum wand. These devices attach to your vacuum cleaner and help you to remove surface dirt and dust from vinyl. You don’t need to use water to clean your records if you do this, but you can go over the surface with water beforehand to ensure it’s 100% clean.

The Vinyl Vac 33 (also from Amazon) is affordable and fits onto most vacuum cleaners. 

What To Avoid Using When Cleaning Your Vinyl Records

Now that I’ve discussed some effective cleaning methods for vinyl records, is there anything you need to avoid using? 

You should avoid using the following substances: 

• Acidic products. Acidic products (like white vinegar or lemon juice) are fantastic natural cleaners, but their low pH levels mean that they can damage the vinyl’s protective coating. However, this is usually only when they are used undiluted and excessively, but you should still avoid using them. 
• Isopropyl alcohol. This product is an effective disinfectant and can effortlessly lift grime off vinyl. Unfortunately, like acidic cleaners, it can also remove your record’s protective coating. 
• Abrasive cloths or sponges. If your vinyl is caked in grime, it can feel tempting to give it a thorough clean with an abrasive cleaning tool. Unfortunately, they can scratch your record, negatively impacting your music quality. 

Reasons to Clean Your Vinyl Records

Cleaning your vinyl records can seem like a drag, but any avid vinyl collector will tell you that it’s vital.

Here are some compelling reasons to clean your vinyl regularly: 

Vinyl Records are Valuable

Vinyl records can cost a lot of money and are often regarded as high-value and collector’s items. In addition, vinyl records have not been mass-produced for several decades now, and are now considered something special and vintage. 

Gently cleaning them regularly can help preserve them for many years to come. 

The emotional value of those records is exactly why you should take care of them. After all, who knows, you might be able to pass the records on to your children one day!  

Read this article if you want to learn more about why you’re supposed to clean your vinyl records. 

Vinyl Records Attract a Lot of Dust

Vinyl records are non-conductive, which is why they’re often charged with static electricity. This static charge can be a severe problem for the quality of your vinyl records, as it can affect the sound of whatever you’re playing.

Objects with a high static charge attract a lot of dust. As you probably already know, dust on records will settle into the grooves and can affect the sound quality. Moreover, a large accumulation of dust can cause permanent damage to your vinyl records. 

You can buy the Anti-Static Vinyl Record Cleaner Brush on Amazon.com. This tool cleans vinyl records and helps eliminate static charge simultaneously. The brush can clean dirt without scratching the records and is made with conductive synthetic fibers. You can read more about how to remove static from vinyl records in this article that I wrote. 

Dirt Build-Up Can Scratch the Record

Any debris on your records can cause scratches, eventually leading to crackling sounds and skipping in the music. That’s why keeping your vinyl records clean and handling them with care is vital. You might not even notice that your vinyl records are dirty until you clean them. 

Using protective sleeves is an excellent way to minimize the amount of dirt your vinyl records can come into contact with, but it’s impossible to keep them 100% clean at all times. Regular cleaning is advised if you know how to do it without damaging your prized vinyl records. 

Cleaning Helps Maintain the Audio Quality

Vinyl has a distinctive scratchy sound, but excess dirt or dust can exacerbate it and negatively impact the record’s sound quality. 

It’s good practice to give your record a quick dust before placing it back in its protective sleeve. Record sleeves are usually tight-fit, and they can press any dust or dirt into the record. 

What To Do if Your Records Were Left in the Rain

If you have accidentally left your vinyl records out in the rain, it’s not the end of the world. The only part likely to be damaged is the paper label in the center. 

Here’s what you should do after discovering your records were left in the rain: 

1. Gently remove any visible dirt or vegetation.
2. Using a clean microfiber cloth, gently wipe the record until it feels dry, avoiding the paper label. 
3. Gently pat the label but don’t wipe it, as this could smudge the wet ink. 
4. Allow your record to air dry in a well-ventilated place.   

Can Mold Grow on Vinyl Records?

Mold can grow on vinyl records. Plastics are very durable, but mold can grow on them when they are continuously exposed to a lot of moisture. 

Although plastic is very durable, it’s not advisable to allow mold to grow on your delicate vinyl records. The additives in plastic usually aren’t as durable, and the mold can cause them to break down. Mold is more likely to grow in the grooves of vinyl records, making it impossible for your record player to play the music on it.  

You can prevent mold formation by always gently drying your vinyl records if they get wet. You should also avoid storing them in a humid environment. 

Conclusion

The good news is that vinyl records can get wet without sustaining damage; however, this doesn’t mean you should be careless with your valuable pieces around liquids either. While you can use a bit of (preferably distilled) water to clean vinyl, you shouldn’t expose the material to too much moisture, as you’ll raise mold growth. Mold can end up destroying your vinyl records altogether. 

There are also other ways to clean vinyl records, including with a vacuum attachment, microfiber cloth, and record-cleaning machines. You can also clean the records with different substances, like specifically-designed cleaning solutions.

Music was an integral part of the 1980s — the era just wouldn’t have been the same without big hair bands, Madonna and Michael Jackson. Interestingly, it was also in the 80s when cassettes and CDs began outselling vinyl records despite costing roughly the same. So, how much did vinyl records cost in the 80s?

Vinyl records cost an average of $7 to $10 in the 1980s when purchased brand new. Used records were priced between $4 to $5, with indie bands or less popular albums dropping for less. Retailers set prices, so they varied, but average prices for vinyl records rarely exceeded $10 from 1980 to 1989.

This article discusses the price of vinyl records in the early, middle, and late 1980s. It also covers factors that influenced vinyl record prices and briefly touches on the newfound popularity of vinyl records and their prices based on inflation. Read on to learn more.

The Price of Vinyl Records in the US From the Early to Late 80s

Although cassette tapes were eating up a large portion of the vinyl record’s market share from 1980 to 1989, LPs still enjoyed moderate success up until around 1987. This was the year when compact discs really began taking the market by storm as portable players became more affordable to the average consumer.

So, how much did vinyl records cost in the 80s? Let’s look at the prices of vinyl records during the early, mid, and late-1980s to see how and why they adjusted over time.

Vinyl Record Prices from 1980-1983

During the beginning of 1980, the average consumer still preferred vinyl records and 8-tracks over cassette tapes and compact discs. However, the market share for vinyl records had dropped to 66 percent.

The decrease in market shares wasn’t enough to stop producing vinyl records at this point. Bruce Springsteen released “The River” in 1980, retailing for an average of $8. That equates to $28.90 in 2023, accounting for a 261.3 percent rate of cumulative inflation.

Most record labels pushed a suggested retail price, but the ultimate price was set by retailers. Therefore, some stores in 1980 may have sold new releases for as low as $7, whereas others may have listed them for $10 or more.

By 1981, vinyl shares had dropped again, this time sitting at 63 percent. Despite this, record labels in the United States wanted to mark up the price of major new releases by a dollar. At the time, the average cost of new vinyl albums was $9, so companies wanted to push it to $10 per record.

Tom Petty was one musician who was up in arms about this proposed price increase. He considered it price gouging the fans and took to fighting his record label to prevent it. Petty went so far as to refuse to hand his album over to his label. Eventually, he won the argument, even choosing cover artwork for the album that hinted at his victory.

By the end of 1982, even consumers were becoming aware of the decrease in vinyl sales. Cassettes were becoming the norm as people flocked toward more portable music-listening devices. This is evidenced by the cassette’s 42 percent market share as 1982 came to a close. The suggested retail price of vinyl records around this time was approximately $8, with only major new releases or premium albums being listed at this rate.

In 1983, cassette sales surpassed LPs in the United States for the first time ever. Vinyl shares sat at a meager 44 percent, with cassettes taking a ten percent lead. The price of vinyl now dropped to approximately $6 to $7 per album. Cassettes were hands down the clear winner in 1983. 

During this time, CDs were also around. However, they were still viewed as very costly and impractical items, and they still weren’t accessible to the average person, as CD players cost upwards of $800. Even if you had the money for a CD player, the average music store stocked very few CDs. 

1984-1986

How much did vinyl records cost in the 80s? Well, vinyl continued its downward trend in the market in 1984, falling to a market share of 36 percent, with CDs rising 9 percent the same year. It was evident at this point that vinyl had reached the end of its lifespan; new technology was at the forefront of music, and it was taking over. Prices for vinyl albums averaged around $6 at the beginning of 1984, even for some new releases.

Interestingly, by the end of 1984, prices of vinyl records began to trend upward despite no increase in market trends. It’s speculated that prices rose to match competitor pricing of cassettes and CDs. Unfortunately, this only seemed to hasten the demise of vinyl. The price increase is also attributed to the release of major tracks from artists like Paul McCartney. That said, the average retail price at the end of 1984 was $9.

Cassettes remained the dominating force throughout 1985, but the price of CD players also began to drop, contributing to their boost in popularity. The average price of a vinyl record in 1985 was around $6 during the year, with vinyl market shares sitting at only 26 percent.

1987-1989

According to a Redditor who owned a record store in 1987, the average price for a new vinyl release was around $8. That said, several factors played a role in vinyl sales in the 80s, including location, artist, retailer, and more.

Around this time, cassettes and CDs truly began to showcase their popularity. In fact, CDs had proven so popular (or at least so promising) that a Toronto man opened a facility where people could hang out and listen to music on CD before committing to a purchase. It may have seemed silly at the time, but it was a sign of what was coming.

The market share and prices of vinyl began a rapid descent throughout the late 1980s. By 1989, Sony stopped pressing vinyls, and right before the 1990s, vinyl records sat at a bleak market share of one percent.

Factors That Influenced Vinyl Costs

Costs listed in the previous section are based on suggested retail prices and averages throughout the United States. Of course, consumers could find budget re-issues for less or limited edition albums for more. Sometimes, record stores had clearance sections with albums selling for pennies on the dollar.

That said, the average price throughout the country was based on how much it took to make the record — and making vinyl records wasn’t exactly a simple, inexpensive process. Let’s examine what goes into creating a vinyl record, as well as a brief workup of the costs involved.

Making Vinyl Records

Interestingly, the process of making vinyl records has stayed pretty much the same since the 1960s. They’re still constructed using plastics, including PVC (polyvinyl chloride) and PVA (polyvinyl acetate), and the process involves the mixing of materials, heating, and pressing. This lengthy process forms several chemical reactions which lead to the formation of vinyl resin.

From there, there is test pressing, and then the resin is cut, plated, and labeled. Some musicians wanted their vinyl colored, which also ups the cost factor. The design process includes choosing the artwork or photography for the inner sleeve and jacket. All of this doesn’t even factor in the equipment used.

The average cost of producing 100 vinyl records can be over $1,000. That means that each record would need to sell for at least $10 each just to break even on production costs. When you add in novelties, like additional colors or fancy artwork, that price increases. Of course, many record companies have more economical options available, as well as better equipment to handle mass-scale production of vinyl to reduce costs and maximize profits.

When pricing vinyl to sell, the popularity of the artist and the record play a role in the price, as well as when it’s being listed. For example, you’d likely pay more for vinyl on its release date than you would if you waited a year and purchased it later.

The Vinyl Comeback

Since 2014, vinyl records have been making a comeback. Today, you’ll see records that cost around $8 in the 1980s go for around $25 to $30 or more, depending on their features.

While this may seem like a lot, once you consider inflation, it appears that the cost of vinyl hasn’t actually increased much over the past several decades. Things have remained pretty steady, including production techniques. It seems that demand and technology haven’t significantly impacted price, which is interesting, considering that vinyl is now produced in lower numbers. However, that doesn’t mean that the value of vinyl won’t rise in the future.

For the most part, most vinyl collectors would love to see the price rise if it means earning money. However, some want to see the current fair pricing remain the same. They believe that when accounting for inflation, it should cost what it did way back when. Of course, there are exceptions for novelty albums, like autographed copies or limited editions.

To reiterate, when you ask, “How much did vinyl records cost in the 80s?” You can see that the value is roughly the same.

Top Albums of the 1980s

Imagine living in the 1980s. You want to buy the most popular albums of the era and bring them back to the current year. What albums would you buy? Here, we’ll look at some of the most coveted albums (and likely the most expensive) that you’d see in the 1980s.

1980 – Back in Black by AC/DC

You’re walking past your local record store in your acid-wash jeans and mesh top when something in the window catches your eye. It’s the glossy black cover of AC/DC’s new album, “Back in Black.” This album would define the decade, going on to sell over 50 million copies.

The fiery metal album features some of the band’s most popular tunes, including “You Shook Me All Night Long,” and was a must-have if you wanted to throw the gnarliest house party. You grab the album for $9 and look inside to see black-and-white photographs of the band live in concert.

1981 – Greatest Hits by Queen

After skateboarding to the arcade, you go inside to play Pacman when you hear Queen playing on the radio. The incredible vocals of Freddie Mercury just resonate in your soul, and the harmonies are instantly recognizable. Everyone in the place is vibing to the song, which reminds you that the Greatest Hits album just dropped, so you head to your local record store.

In 1981, you could pick up Queen’s Greatest Hits for around $9. It was the year’s best-selling album, with classics including “Another One Bites the Dust” and, a fan favorite, “Bohemian Rhapsody.”

1982 – Thriller by Michael Jackson

When Michael Jackson set out to create the greatest album of all time, he really outdid himself with the release of Thriller. This album features some of Michael’s most beloved songs and best work, including “Billie Jean,” “Beat It,” and the album’s namesake, “Thriller.” Only a year after its release, Thriller broke record after record.

Back in 1982, you could pick up the vinyl for around $9. Upon opening the vinyl sleeve, you’d be greeted with a foldout photograph of Michael Jackson lying on the ground with a feline cub, proving that he had a knack for out-of-this-world music and content that sold.

Conclusion

There’s no comparison between a cassette or CD to a vinyl record. There’s an authenticity and warmth that comes out as the needle scratches the surface of the vinyl and an emotion that you simply don’t hear in other formats. The nostalgia simply cannot be beaten, the reason we’re seeing such a resurgence in popularity among LPs.

It may seem silly to pay $25 or $30 for vinyl when they originally sold for $7 to $10, considering inflation, they’re around the same value. So, if you’re interested in joining the vinyl craze today, the time is now.

Buying vinyl records is exciting and rewarding if you don’t purchase fake, low-quality records. It can be difficult to differentiate an official record from a counterfeit one, but it is possible. How do you identify phony vinyl records and save yourself some money?

You can spot fake vinyl records from details that imitate an official release. Check that the print on the record jacket and label is high quality. The matrix numbers and words must be consistent with a genuine record, which you can verify using officially released images. 

This article explains how you can check the physical characteristics of a vinyl record to identify fakes or verify an authentic product. After reading this article, you’ll be a pro at checking every little detail before investing in any vinyl record. 

1. Understand What a Fake Vinyl Record Is

There are two types of fake vinyl records: bootleg and counterfeit vinyl. These two terms are used interchangeably, but there are differences between them that you need to be aware of when searching for genuine records. 

Bootleg Records

Bootleg records are unauthorized and unreleased recordings of a performance sold without the artist’s or record label’s consent, which is illegal under copyright law. If the label releases an album digitally or on a CD, and they haven’t released an original pressing, then the vinyl record of that album will be considered a bootleg copy.  

Bootleg releases don’t pretend to be originals because they are produced and marketed by third parties unrelated to the artist or record label. If a performance was never officially released, any product that benefits from it is fraudulent. 

Only the copyright holders can approve the sale of original creations, as they are the only ones who can legally profit from their hard work. The artist has no control over the sales and recordings of a bootleg because these fakes are often edits of the actual performance. 

However, you can identify a bootleg record by researching whether the artist or record label has released a vinyl of a performance.  

Counterfeit Records

Counterfeit records are illegally reproduced pressings that imitate official releases but aren’t associated with the record label in any way. These are hard to differentiate from official records because they are intentionally sold to fool music lovers into thinking they are getting an original pressing.  

Counterfeits are also hard to distinguish if you judge them solely by their audio quality. Unlike bootlegs, which are third-party unauthorized releases, a counterfeit record holds an official studio recording previously released by a recording company or artist.

You’ll encounter counterfeit records when looking for rare or expensive vinyl. Forgery can take time and money, so making fake records of cheap official copies wouldn’t be very lucrative for the seller.  

It is more common to see fakes from a vintage collection or titles from a major artist that has long gone out of print. However, you may still see imitations from current trending artists and bands. Always inspect a vinyl record carefully before purchasing it.  

2. Check the Jacket Sleeve

A vinyl record’s jacket sleeve holds general product information about the record inside. With a fake record, the details on the sleeve are different from the original product. When you inspect a sleeve, you need to check the following information:

• Matrix number
• Font
• Stickers
• Material  
• Texture (i.e., matte or glossy)
• Barcodes

Discogs is a website that frequently catalogs official vinyl releases and publishes the physical characteristics of their packaging on the same page. These notes can help you identify and differentiate official records from counterfeit versions, as you can compare the product you want to buy with details about the official record. 

The vinyl’s Discogs page also allows you to browse different pictures of the vinyl record and jacket sleeve. For example, check out this Discogs page for Madonna’s ‘Like A Virgin’ vinyl.

However, not all vinyl releases are cataloged on Discogs. If you don’t find the record you’re looking for, you will need to search for information on official record sleeves yourself. 

Used Vinyl Records

You can tell the condition of a vinyl record from its sleeve. Used records will show signs of age, and poor-quality counterfeits will show wear more evidently. 

You shouldn’t buy a record if the jacket has been printed with very soft colors unless it’s part of the official design. Printed colors can start to fade if the vinyl record is a vintage release, but this is usually due to fading over time. If you’re holding a recent release, a sleeve with soft and weak colors is likely a low-quality print.  

If you’re interested in buying older or used vinyl records, check out this article with tips to help determine the quality and condition of used records. 

3. Compare Matrix Numbers

The matrix number is a combination of numbers and letters specific to a particular vinyl record. This number is stamped into the center of your vinyl record, also known as the run-out groove or deadwax.  

Sometimes, the matrix number is etched into the vinyl record by hand, but this doesn’t mean the record is fake. Both sides of the vinyl disc have different identifying numbers, which you can find online to check a record’s authenticity. 

Matrix numbers have no specific meaning, so deciphering what each letter and number means won’t help you identify a fake vinyl record. However, it is an excellent tool for determining whether an album is an authorized and official release. 

Check the Spacing Between the Letters and Numbers

The size and shape of a matrix number on a specific official release should always look the same. The font size and spacing between the different letters and numbers should be consistent, which is hard to achieve on a phony record.  

Counterfeit manufacturers don’t have the official stamps explicitly made for a particular vinyl record, so reproducing a perfect copy is impossible. 

You must carefully check the matrix numbers on a record, as the difference between fake and authentic can be minimal. Always search for the original pressing’s matrix number online and compare before you buy. 

Inspect the Etched Numbers

The matrix number on an actual, high-quality record is usually a deep stamp into the vinyl, resulting in clear and neat etchings that users can easily identify and read. Matrix numbers that are superficial and hard to read often indicate forgery. These presses are hastily made and have a different quality than the officially released vinyl records. 

4. Quality of the Vinyl Record

Thickness and Flexibility

You can tell a genuine vinyl record from a fake one by testing its flexibility and measuring the disc’s thickness. Professionally made pressings use good quality material to ensure the product’s longevity, and less flexible discs mean they are less prone to breakage. Increased thickness means increased stability on your record player, but it’s also more costly.

Counterfeits preceding the 70s were often much thinner and more flexible than their original counterparts. Using cheaper materials in fake records production cut effort and cost for manufacturers, so more counterfeits could be sold on the market. This is why there are more fake vintage records than modern ones, as vinyl albums were the only way people could listen to music recordings back in the day.  

Sound Quality

Fake vinyl records usually feature lower sound quality than original releases, so test the audio quality of the record you want to buy whenever possible. For this reason, purchasing vinyl from a physical store is much better than ordering one online, as most stores have listening stations for customers. 

The first editions of a vinyl record have the best sound out of all reissues and counterfeits. If you don’t think a record sounds crisp when you listen to it, it may be better to leave it on the shelf and continue your search.

Online Reviews 

Big online retailers, like Amazon.com, usually filter out counterfeit products. When you try to buy vinyl online, Amazon will make sure that the copy is not an illegal duplicate. Additionally, the review section allows customers to write product reviews if they have a terrible experience with a record’s quality or packaging.  

When a customer notices that they have received a counterfeit product and mentions this in a review, Amazon will put the product on hold and inquire into the seller and their products.  However, that is only sometimes the case, so you can’t assume that a product is genuine because it’s available on the website.  

5. Look at the Label

Similar to the sleeve, the label for an official vinyl record should be a professional-quality print. Labels on all original pressings are identical, including the position of the play hole in the center. Inspect the label for the following qualities: 

• Print material 
• Font size and spacing
• Color

Fake record manufacturers often make tiny mistakes in printing the label as they rush to produce copies, so minor inaccuracies are assumed to go unnoticed by the customer.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, you can determine the authenticity of a vinyl record by comparing it with details and images of original pressings. You can get a lot of information about official vinyl releases online. Still, it helps if you know what to watch out for when shopping for record albums.   

Here are some things you should look out for when trying to spot fake vinyl records:

• The color quality of the print on both the label and the record jacket. 
• The accuracy of the matrix number, including the font and spacing between characters.  
• The position of words and numbers on the record sleeve and label. 
• The sound quality. 

If you’re a music lover and a vinyl enthusiast, you may often find yourself facing the dilemma of whether or not to buy an original pressing of a record or a reissue. You want your records to sound the best they can, so this is no small question. Both options have their pros and cons, so the choice is ultimately up to you and your priorities. 

You should buy an original vinyl record if you’re particular about the way you want your music to sound, are a seasoned collector, or simply want to showcase the vinyl. If you’re more of a casual listener or on a tighter budget, buy a reissue vinyl record instead.

Let’s take a closer look at the differences between these types of vinyl records and the pros and cons of each. By the end of this article, you’ll have a better idea of which kind of vinyl record is best for you and which to buy the next time you find yourself in this conundrum. 

What Are Original Vinyl Records?

Original vinyl records are records that were made from the initial batch of lacquers in the production process and cut using the original master recordings. 

Many record collectors hold original vinyl records on a pedestal because they are more valuable and rare than reissues. However, it is important to note that just because a record is an original does not necessarily mean that it is the best quality; this depends on the year the album was released and who mastered the original. 

To understand this, let’s look at how vinyl records are made. The first part of this process is preparing the tracks for pressing. To do this, musicians bring a digital audio file of the track to mastering engineers. These engineers then optimize the quality of the file by adding levels and limiting, sequencing, equalizing, splitting, and selecting the rotation speed. 

After the digital files are optimized, the files are imprinted onto a lacquer plate. After this master is created, it goes through Electroforming or Direct Metal Mastering. Then, the stampers are taken to a press, where they’re stamped onto pre-heated vinyl. 

This process has undergone various changes throughout the years, which explains why the quality and consistency of records change between decades. 

In general, original vinyl records that were created before the 1970s are considered the best original pressings available. The pre-1970s were a golden age for record production, and because records were practically the only way people could purchase music, much effort and care was put into their production. 

Additionally, because so many people were buying records, there was a lot of competition amongst the record companies to create the best-sounding records possible. These companies used the best mixes and techniques and brand-new production plants to create records that sounded incredible. 

In the 1970s, energy consumption problems forced production companies to reduce costs, so some began to melt down unsellable records and use the scraps to make new records, reducing sound quality. Additionally, the companies began to reduce the thickness of the record discs to cut down on costs. 

After cassettes and CDs became the primary way to listen to music in the 1980s, vinyl sales declined, and engineers stopped putting as much effort into the original record pressings. If reissues were ordered, even less effort was put into this production process. 

Records started becoming more popular again in the late 1990s and early 2000s, so more vinyl records were being made. Still, there were fewer knowledgeable engineers, and the processing plants and technologies were out-of-date. Nowadays, there are more skilled engineers and updated equipment, so original pressings are back to the quality they once were. 

Because of this history, original pressings can sound absolutely incredible or less-than-ideal, depending on the album’s release date and who mastered it. Still, many audiophiles and serious record collectors consider an original pressing to be superior to a reissue no matter what. 

Pros and Cons of Original Vinyl Records

Let’s take a look at some of the benefits of purchasing original vinyl records: 

• Original vinyl records usually have superior sound quality. True audiophiles will be able to tell the difference between a first pressing and a reissue, and almost always, they prefer the original. If you’re picky about sound and want a record that was definitely made from the master recordings, the original pressing is the way to go. 
• You’re listening to an authentic version of the album, the way it was intended to be listened to. When an album is reissued, the engineer can change how the original sounded. This means that you’re not hearing the album the way the original artists and engineers intended for it to be heard, which takes away from the authenticity of the experience. 
• The pressing is made from the original master tapes. Some reissues also use the original masters, but if you have an original vinyl, you’ll know for sure that you have a record made with the originals if you get vinyl from the first pressing. 
• You get the original album art. The album artwork is an important part of the overall record, and sometimes reissues change the art. 

As incredible as original vinyl pressings are, they come with some disadvantages: 

• Original recordings can be extremely expensive. Because original pressings are limited and rare, they are higher priced, occasionally by a lot, depending on how desired the record is. Original pressings of classic albums can cost thousands of dollars, whereas big labels reissue these classics for a fraction of the price. For example, an original stereo copy of Yesterday and Today will set you back $25,000.  
• Older originals were pressed on thin vinyl. Thin vinyl is more likely to warp, which ruins the listening experience. On the other hand, most reissues are made with 180-gram vinyl, making it more likely to sit flat on a deck and play as it should. 

What Are Reissue Vinyl Records? 

Reissue vinyl records are records that are being rereleased, and they don’t necessarily use the original master recordings. They can feature different materials than the original vinyl. 

The term reissue applies to a variety of releases. Typically, these reissues vary from the original in many ways, including the sourcing of the masters, packaging, cover design, format, and country of origin. Reissues tend to come with bonus tracks and other bonus items, including inserts and posters. 

Serious record collectors may look down on reissues, but they are more accessible and available than original pressings.  

Pros and Cons of Reissue Vinyl Records 

Many serious record collectors prefer original pressings; however, purchasing a reissue comes with its own set of advantages. Here are some of the pros of reissued records: 

• Reissues are more affordable than original pressings. Reissues aren’t as rare, so you can usually get a reissue for far less than the original. A reissue of an album can cost $12-$40, while originals can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars, depending on the record’s rarity. 
• Reissues are more widely available and accessible than originals. It’s possible that you won’t be able to find an original version of the album that you want, especially if it is old and rare. You’ll have to go through the trouble of tracking down the original if you want it, and you may not be able to do this. 
• Sometimes, engineers improve the sound quality of the original. Original pressings, while more authentic, may have various sound problems that engineers can improve on in a reissue. Remastered versions are often easier to listen to, and the sounds are more balanced. 

However, there are some drawbacks. These are the disadvantages: 

• A reissue can feel like a less authentic experience because engineers and producers can chop and change things from the original and alter the way the record was meant to be heard. Engineers tend to increase the loudness in remastered versions, which results in a “loudness war.” Additionally, reissues can sound more polished than the original version. 
• Some reissues source a pressing from a CD or a digital method. If a reissue does this, the record will almost always sound worse. This is common for pirated records. 

Original vs. Reissue Vinyl Records: Which Is Better 

The kind of vinyl you should buy will ultimately depend on your priorities and preferences. Both kinds of records have their advantages and disadvantages. However, here are my suggestions for which record to buy depending on the following circumstances: 

When To Buy an Original Pressing

• You’re a serious record collector. Collectors of vintage vinyl will naturally want the earliest possible pressing they can get. Original vinyl is the closest to the original master recording, making for a special listening experience that is a snapshot of a moment in time. Additionally, the visual aesthetics of an original are important to many collectors. 
• The record you want to buy is important to you or holds sentimental value. If the record you’re looking for is special to you, you’ll want it to be as authentic as possible. Generally, if you’re willing to track down an original pressing of a record and pay the price for it, you should. It’s something you’ll be able to keep and admire forever.  
• You’re picky about how your music sounds. The original pressing is usually as pristine a listening experience as possible. Originals are without the degradation that comes from decades of remastering and remixing. Some reissues use a CD or a digital copy of the music, which can have disastrous results. Ask any vinyl enthusiast about Amy Winehouse’s Back in Black, and you’ll get an earful about this.  
• You want to put the record on display. Some people frame their record artwork or display it in some other way, and if this is your goal, you’ll definitely want the original artwork and the visual effect of the original. 

When To Buy a Reissue

• You’re on a tight budget. The reality is that if you can’t afford an original pressing of an album, the next best option is to get a reissue. Reissues are available for a fraction of the cost, so if the original is out of your price range, the reissue probably won’t be. 
• An original pressing of the record you want isn’t available. Some original pressings of older and more classic records simply aren’t available. For example, you probably won’t be able to get an original pressing of a Beatles or Elvis Presley album. Therefore, if you want to be able to listen to the King on vinyl, you’re going to have to be happy with a reissue. 
• You just want the record to listen to, not necessarily to show off. For casual listening, spending less and getting a reissue makes more sense. If you’re not going to be showing off the aesthetic of the album or bragging about it to your friends, a reissue will get the job done. 
• You can listen to both versions and can’t hear the difference. If you’re buying your record in person at a record store (which you should try to do if you can, to support local music businesses), there’s a chance you’ll be able to listen to both versions of the record in the store before purchasing. If you do and can’t hear a difference, why not go for the cheaper option and save some money? 
• You prefer quantity over quality. If you’re just starting with your record collection, or if you love a wide range of genres and want to have lots of options for listening at home, you will want to buy more records. If you blow your entire budget on one original pressing, this may not be possible. You can probably snag five or more reissues for the cost of one original. 

Conclusion 

Ultimately, whether to purchase an original pressing or a record reissue depends on your budget and personal preferences. An original vinyl record may not be accessible to you for various reasons, but there’s something special about owning an original version of a record you love. On the other hand, reissues are more affordable and available, but they may not sound as good or feel as exceptional.