What should I look for when purchasing a quality album?


So dumb it down for a newbie…

What should I look for when purchasing a quality album? A quality label? A quality recording and hopefully? well engineered? How wrong would it be to buy used albums? Is that the fun of it? Where are the Best places to shop online?I just bought a reasonably costly analog rig and I am started to collect vinyl.

2psyop

Showing 1 response by oberoniaomnia

First and foremost, like the music (or whatever) on that record. For many records, there is one version/pressing etc. particularly true for newer releases. 

A technically bad recording that engages you is more enjoyable than some UHQR record of music that you don't like. I don't have a single "audiophile" recording (Mofi, AP, Craft, etc.) as none of that music is for me. Dark Side bores me to tears; I heard it in the 80s, don't have it in my collection. So the first question is: What type of music do YOU like? Only then and if there are multiple versions available can you get into the quality game. 

I recently noted that The Outcast Single compilation 1978-1985 form 2023 sounds dreadful compared to my OG LP/EPs from 1982. A rare instance of noting sound quality differences in records in my collection. In other cases, say The Cure "Faith" OG vs. audiophile 180g repress: no difference.

So again, first identify the music YOU like.