Old vinyl recordings

Posted by: Ian Preston on 15 March 2001

How hard is to get old vinyl recording? specifically classical pressings from the 50s 60s 70s. I mean, can these be purchased new, through the net or whatever? Recently I happened open a vast collection of vinyl that where from one owner, now deceased. These appeared to be in flawless condition. This has got me very excited as I am looking to build such a collection. Incidently I have not got a TT yet however I have already started to buy these records in the meantime.
Lastly I noticed an LP12 for sale for around 450US (300 uk) I dont have a lot of details but it
was about 20 years old. How would this compare against, say a rega p3?
Posted on: 15 March 2001 by Paul B
Ian:

Used classical vinyl is quite readily available in major cities such as New York or London at quite reasonable prices. The bigger the city usually the greater the quantity of used vinyl to be found.

There are numerous individuals/stores on the web who sell used classical records. The prices for mail-order are usually higher.

Regarding the records you found for sale. Before purchasing make sure that absolutely no one has been through the collection and cherry-picked the best. If someone has, the only items left will be virtually worthless. If you are the first, have a quick look through for classical labels such as Decca or EMI and look at the label on the lp to see if they were made in the UK (plus Mercury or RCA pressed in the USA). Look at the condition carefully. If the records are marked or scratched or have none of the above labels or they were pressed in other countries, I suggest you pass on purchase, unless you are eager to try anything and the price is right (about 25 cents US per disc if the collection is large - that's all they are worth). If they include a considerable number of the above labels in good condition, you have found the motherlode. Then buy the whole lot from the person to take them off their hands.

By the way original pressings of Decca, EMI, RCA and Mercury sell for hundreds of dollars EACH in many cases. Often more.

Hope this helps.

Paul

Posted on: 16 March 2001 by cabermac
Another good source for used vinyl is ebay. I've purchased a number of excellent recordings at great prices. Lots of choices in all genres. Good hunting!

Michael