Did you know that vinyl LPs are still being produced? There are still a few small companies focusing on bringing out vinyl LPs of old recordings. These little guys focus mainly on releasing their production to a market that wants the very best possible quality of sound they can afford. This is an public of folks that have been known to invest in high end systems costing over $10.000. That is actually not much in this world of the ultimate sound experience A decent pair of speakers will easily cost you more. So these new "reissues" of old masters on vinyl are pressed on the highest grade vinyl that is practically attainable, using high level sound engineers and (non digital) gear.
Mostly these albums are being mastered at half speed and often even direct unto the record. The quality of the vinyl they use can allow for an album that is virtually without any noise and has an incredible frequency response, according to Lee Benson, writer of the enjoyable book "The Fascinating Hobby Of Vinyl Record Collecting". He also mentions that these records, even though in appearance and touch the same as the original albums, they are most of the time of much more quality as those.
One can question oneself why these audiophile vinyl records are being pressed nowadays. Many seem to believe it is because of the transparency and musicality of the reproduction medium (vinyl). Even though digital audio has been around for many years, for someone that adores a complete audio experience it is absolutely analog that rules. The new audiophile records generally sound much better than their original counterparts. The extended care and craftsmanship that goes into these audiophile discs means you are getting a product that is just special. Many people that are being exposed to these LPs are quite surprised by the detail and sound they hear on their favorite albums. As some say, you get what you pay for. For numerous people it is a good investment.
One more reason might be that vinyl records have proven to be an excellent collector's item, with a loyal audience, that is eager to pay more money for a high quality product.
There is a inclination to increment in monetary worth over time for these records. So for collectors and investors they tend to make decent investments. Most recently re-released vinyl is in limited editions so will tend to rise in value when the run is sold out. Naturally, original issues that are in good condition, notably from the sixties and seventies, can also reach very high prices.
For whatever reasons, it is a peculiar fenomena how in this demanding world of high end audio there is still a place for analog technology. It goes to show that new is not always better and how important it is to make your own assessment to what really is important to you as a consumer. If you have never heard these high end audio LPs maybe you should walk into a vinyl store to find out for yourself what you think about these audiophile records. You might be surprised at what you find.
Article by the folks at http://www.revivalrecords.uk.com If you want to know how much your record collection is worth, visit
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