Rare vinyl combines music history, manufacturing evidence, condition and collector demand. A useful conclusion should be traceable to identifiers on the physical release.
1. Photograph the release
Photograph the release 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. Record label and catalog number
Record label and catalog number 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. Read both runouts
Read both runouts 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. Record country and format
Record country and format 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.
5. Compare packaging
Compare packaging 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.
6. Match a complete release record
Match a complete release record 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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The record identification sequence
If the catalog number points to several releases, move to the matrix/runout and label details before assuming an edition.
- Transcribe both runouts with spaces, symbols and etched/stamped differences intact.
- Photograph labels and compare pressing plant marks, typesetting and copyright text.
- Record jacket, inner sleeve and inserts; do not infer pressing year from sleeve copyright alone.
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