desirable labels pressings?

[guydarryl]

Do classical recordings (vinyl) have particular record labels/pressings that are collectable? I am thinking along the lines of first pressing A1/B1 (as in popular/rock) or particular companies ie Decca or HMV?

If such records exist is there a good website for identifying "gems" - I was gobsmacked to find that a Paloma Faith album that I have seems to command a very high price and was wondering whether a similar situation exists with classical.

I ask because I am having a clear out. I hope that I am not breaking any rules by asking.

 

[Tony L]

Hugely so! There is a lot of info out there including a little ‘Classical label FAQ’ in the record shop here on pfm. The best of the ‘golden age’ pressings of the late-50s through to the mid to late 60s really are superb.

 

[Take5]

Tonys info as suggested is excellent.

To narrow it down a little, there are 3 that you should for certain look out for.

1) Columbia SAX...... BLUE/SILVER version

2) Decca SXL.... 1st pressing is known as wide band deep groove

3) Hmv. ASD....... white/gold version

You should become familiar with what these are, and Tony’s list will give details.

There are other valuable labels, but these 3 would be the main ones to be likely to be in your collection.

For example, here are one of each, and will give you an idea of the label to look out for.
They happen to all be ones that i have in my collection !!

http://rover.ebay.com/rover/1/710-5...0001&campid=5338728743&icep_item=223429218340

http://rover.ebay.com/rover/1/710-5...0001&campid=5338728743&icep_item=223320788759

http://rover.ebay.com/rover/1/710-5...0001&campid=5338728743&icep_item=283352922650

 

[Stunsworth]

The early Decca and EMI LPs are very good. Tony’s guide is very good in identifying the various labels.

You can use Discogs to find out what a particular version has sold for in the past - they have lowest, highest and average prices. Just make sure you select the correct release. As ever, condition is very important.

 

[guydarryl]

Hugely so! There is a lot of info out there including a little ‘Classical label FAQ’ in the record shop here on pfm. The best of the ‘golden age’ pressings of the late-50s through to the mid to late 60s really are superb.

Brilliant - I feel a bit daft having not looked at the record shop section of the forum - never been there before, thanks for the resource. Thanks for the other suggestions chaps!

 

[daytona600]

http://www.high-endaudio.com/supreme.html