Rare vinyl combines music history, manufacturing evidence, condition and collector demand. A useful conclusion should be traceable to identifiers on the physical release.
1. Use release records
Use release records should be evaluated against the exact release, country, format, label, catalog number, matrix/runout, packaging and condition. Preserve the physical evidence and avoid replacing identification with seller shorthand.
2. Photograph against neutral background
Photograph against neutral background should be evaluated against the exact release, country, format, label, catalog number, matrix/runout, packaging and condition. Preserve the physical evidence and avoid replacing identification with seller shorthand.
3. Check label and matrix
Check label and matrix should be evaluated against the exact release, country, format, label, catalog number, matrix/runout, packaging and condition. Preserve the physical evidence and avoid replacing identification with seller shorthand.
4. Color names are subjective
Color names are subjective should be evaluated against the exact release, country, format, label, catalog number, matrix/runout, packaging and condition. Preserve the physical evidence and avoid replacing identification with seller shorthand.
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Colored-vinyl comparison worksheet
The color and the precise pressing are two different facts. Document them both to avoid comparing a limited early pressing with a standard later release.
- Record color and pattern under consistent lighting.
- Write out matrix/runout and catalog information exactly.
- List sleeve, insert and sticker variations, and check whether any numbered edition claim is verifiable.
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