Here’s a different perspective on RSD.
1. no question that some record companies use RSD to generate dollars on some possibly questionable releases.
2. That said, no one is required to buy anything. If the record is worth the price to you, buy it; if not, don’t.
3. I appreciate the opportunity to buy/hear unreleased recordings, especially live recordings, of bands during historically important times. A good example from RSD 2024 is the Doors release from Sweden, which shows a very good working band on its first visit to Europe. Numerous similar jazz recordings are released on RSD every year and many are high-quality releases that offer unique insights into their careers.
4. Regarding the “limited edition” discussion, I’m sure some companies use this to create scarcity and justify high prices. However, why would a record company produce only 5,000 (or 2,500 or 1,200) copies of a record if they thought they could sell 50,000 or 100,000 or more? It’s way more likely they know the release will have limited interest and so produce a number in line with their expectations.
I generally buy 5-6 RSD releases and I appreciate the opportunity to hear rare often extremely good recordings that would likely not be available if it weren’t for RSD. I also pass up releases that I think aren’t likely to add to an artist’s legacy or that I think are unreasonably priced.
Just a bit more food for thought!