Checking SHM-CDs are actually SHM

Posted by: Stevee_S on 01 May 2015

I bought a SHM CD from Japan recently  (Eagles - Hell Freezes Over) it has a Catalogue number of UICY-1 5007. When I checked with Discogs it suggests that the catalogue number should be / is UICY-91059. The CD I have been sent was made by the correct company (Universal Music) in Japan and just like the SHM CD that Discogs displays it has no outward sign or notification that it is SHM. Checking with another site (cdJapan), they have SHMs of Hell Freezes Over with a catalogue number of UICY-25013.

 

I am confused now as to the relevance of the catalogue numbers. The CD sounds very good indeed but apparently the sound quality and recording quality of the standard CD is very good anyway, so its difficult to judge audibly with no other CD to compare it to. 

 

 My question is how can you check that a CD is in fact SHM? All and any advice would be gratefully received.

Posted on: 01 May 2015 by Nick Lees

Dunno definitively Steve, but all the (few) SHMs I've bought have all had the OBI that said so.

Posted on: 01 May 2015 by ewemon

Have a look at the IFPI no in the centre ring as most are usually pressed by JVC Victor Japan so the matrix would usually be soemthing in the order of 40xx also they have a little tint to the playing side.

Posted on: 02 May 2015 by Stevee_S

Thanks for the help chaps, I have had a closer look this morning with a magnifying glass and found the very small markings stating SHM-CD! They are on the very innermost (clear) centre ring on the label side having a width of perhaps just 3mm. On that clear ring printed four times in white, are the words SHM-CD. It still surprises me that not more is made to advertise the fact that its an SHM either on the album  artwork or on the jewel casing. I will get up into the attic and have a look at my (few) other SHMs to check if they also have this tiny identifier around the innermost ring.

Posted on: 02 May 2015 by Nick Lees

Good. If I'd got up off my rear end earlier I could've suggested that. Duh.

Posted on: 02 May 2015 by Stevee_S
Originally Posted by Gary Shaw:

Good. If I'd got up off my rear end earlier I could've suggested that. Duh.

Well you did write in your profile that one of your interests is "sitting".