How To Know the value of Your vinyl records
Do you have a stack of vinyl records collecting dust in your attic? Or perhaps you’re an avid collector who is always on the lookout for rare finds. Determining the approximate value of vinyl records is not easy, even for first-time collectors. Let’s find ways to determine the value of custom-made vinyl records and vinyl records ordered from vinyl record pressing services.
Factors That Affect the Value of Vinyl Records
Here are the most common factors that affect the value of vinyl records.
Condition
The type of material and the condition of your vinyl records determine the vinyl record valuation. Specifically, people are willing to pay much more for records in new or close to new conditions compared to those that show signs of use. The grading scale goes from M, for mint, to P, for poor, with many letter grades in between.
Key Aspects of Condition:
Visual appearance:
Dents, rubs, and warping decrease the value of vinyl albums.
Sound quality:
Pops, clicks as well as skips are disruptive and this may affect the quality, listening experience, and hence the value of the product.
Packaging:
The external and internal looks of the packaging that is the album cover, the inner sleeves, and the inserts should also meet certain conditions.
Rarity
Now it is true that the value of the rare vinyl records is more as compared to the normal ones. Some records are collections or rarities from small or out-of-print record labels or artists and for these vinyl records valuation will be much more. Some data regarding the historical background of the records, as well as their press release frequency, can also go a long way in helping determine the latter.
Examples of Rare Records:
- Limited edition colored vinyl
- First pressings
- A record that possesses a piece of art or comes with a unique graphical layout
Demand
The demand on the given artists, some genres, or specific records often influences the value of vinyl records. Other aspects of the popularity could be drawn, such as the usual artists and albums that are most relevant and have been in the market longer.
Factors Influencing Demand:
- Modern tendencies of music
- Relevance of the artist and their work
- Cultural and historical significance
Custom Vinyl Records
Another interesting thing that affects the value of vinyl records is the music records that can contain valuable information and design personalized visuals or are connected with memorable events. Often, unique pressings for one’s record collection, special occasions, or limited editions can be a great way to increase the vinyl album value.
How to Evaluate Your Vinyl Records Value
Research and Resources
The state and condition of a record are central to defining the value of the vinyl record. Here’s how you can evaluate it:
Mint (M):
Perfect condition with no signs of wear, as if it was just bought.
Near Mint (NM or M-):
Almost perfect. The record looks clean with no scratches that would easily be spotted on it.
Very Good Plus (VG+):
It shows some signs of being used but it’s in very good condition. Light scratches that do not interfere with the play.
Very Good (VG):
Quite some wear and audible surface noise. The record continues to play without any jerking or missing frames.
Good (G) and Below:
Much needs to be said about the squeaking sounds and the general state of the sole. These are often shunned by collectors unless it is a rather unique piece.
Enhancing the Value of Vinyl Records
Proper Storage and Handling
Originally, store your vinyl records in a cool and dry place away from sunlight exposure. As a means of protection, records should be put in protective sleeves and where possible, should be grabbed by the edges only. This way you can increase and preserve your vinyl records value.
Maintain Cleanliness
It is advised to clean your records frequently to maintain the condition of the records to enhance vinyl records value. These components include the body of the turntable, an arm of the turntable, dust, and dirt, as they can scratch the vinyl record and hence decrease the value of the record.
Invest in Vinyl Record Pressing
For musicians or music producers, maybe it would be wise to try pressing custom vinyl records to increase the vinyl records value. Custom vinyl pressing not only looks good but also raises the value of the item because relatively few people own it.
The Role of Vinyl Record Pressing in Value
Vinyl record pressing, therefore, can be termed as the fabrication process of vinyl records. Again, this shows that many factors go into the creation of records, and the quality and specifics of the pressing can be a factor in the value of the records. Editions such as the first press are usually considered more valuable than the subsequent editions of the product.
First Issues and Reissue
It is generally more desirable with great vinyl records value to have the first pressing of a record than to seek a reissue that may be done after several other pressings. These include the first sets of records /singles that are made once an album is out in the market. It also triggers the rights of first sale, which collectors wish to have original pressings due to their accuracy. However, the value of vinyl record reissues is normally not as good as the first releases of the record presses.
How to Identify a First Pressing
Finding a first pressing is often straightforward, but when evaluating the value of the record, it is essential to look for the following:
Catalog Numbers:
First pressings typically have specific catalog numbers.
Matrix Numbers:
Etched into the vinyl near the label, indicating the pressing.
Label Variations:
Differences in label design can indicate a first pressing.
Awareness of these points can help you accurately assess the value of your vinyl records.
Discover the Value of Your Vinyl with Impress Vinyl Services
Impress Vinyl is a well-known company that deals with custom vinyl records and vinyl record pressings with greater vinyl record value. At Impress Vinyl, our services aim to assist vinyl lovers in finding the actual vinyl album values. Our approach includes the rarity of a product, its condition, demand, and the state of the pressing details when professionally valuing items. Our services guarantee that whether you have unique custom vinyl records or antique vinyl records, you will know the accurate vinyl record valuation.
Services Offered by Impress Vinyl
Custom Vinyl Records:
Creating one-of-a-kind records with your music such that you would have a personal record of the songs.
Vinyl Record Pressing:
High-quality pressing services that guarantee excellent sound and durability.
Collectable Editions:
Limited edition pressings are perfect for collectors and simply music lovers.
Cherish Your Collection with More Vinyl Records Value
Awareness of the value of the vinyl record also goes a long way in enabling one to value their collection as well as make sound decisions on what records to purchase or dispose of as well as how to preserve them. Impress Vinyl specializes in providing the most accurate valuation services that assist in each stage. Whether it is real or fair, a self-proclaimed collector or a newcomer, knowing the vinyl album values enhances the experience.
Are you a vinyl freak willing to know the current vinyl record value in the market? You can now contact Impress Vinyl and get guidance from our specialists!
