The first stereo I was allowed to use was my Fathers Superscope Marantz R-350 Stereo Receiver. Eventually he gave it to me and I still have it and use it. It worth a lot more now than what he originally paid for it. The first album I bought with my own money back in 1975 (I was 10) was "Desolation Boulevard" by Sweet.
You can "wiggle" the entire shrink off in one piece. Fold it and preserve it in the sleeve pocket. Modern shrink can be carefully slipped back on for resale.
I used to cut along the edge of the shrink and leave the hype stickers on. Recently, I made a record cleaning machine and I'm going through all my records, cleaning and giving them new Mo-Fi inner sleeves and new outter sleeves. All the original shrink is coming off. I'm cutting out the hype stickers and sliding them inside the jacket. I'm also keeping the records outside the jacket in the back of the outter sleeve and entering them into discogs at the same time. Very tedious work. I've done about 100 over the last week and have about 500 more to go. Great channel and content!
Always take the shrink rap off, as in the past old shrink caused damage (got stuck to cover). Apparently it can shrink as well though not had the issue.
13:25 The first record I ever bought with my own money was 'The Empire Strikes Back' score composed and conducted by John Williams as performed by the London Symphony Orchestra. I bought it when I was 10 years old back in 1980 shortly after having seen the movie and it still plays perfectly to this day and the gatefold cover, liner notes, and inner sleeves are all in great shape too.
My first record was a mail order Elvis album that I saw advertised on TV. That was back in 1973. I was 7 years old and I remember seeing it on one of my first days off from summer vacation from school. On the cover he had his white jump suit with a blue background and a yellow strip on the bottom. It was a complication album put out on RCA. Back then to order those, it was like send a $4 check or money order to blah blah PO Box Grand Central Station in NY allow 8 - 12 weeks delivery. This was the first week of summer vacation in June and I didn't get it until I started my first week of school in September. That was normal back then for ordering things via mail. I still have that album but haven't played in in close to 50 years. I need to clean it off someday and give it a spin.
That would be “Elvis” (DPL2-0056)! I recall the TV commercial for that very popular album with the announcer’s voice bellowing out “ELVIS” and to send a self-addressed stamped envelope to “Hound Dog”, which went to Brookville Records. Just one of my many Elvis memories!
13:25 The first music record I ever received was when I was 7 years old (almost 8) which was the 'Star Wars' (1977) double-LP set composed and conducted by John Williams with the London Symphony Orchestra. My father had bought me the album while I was recovering from pneumonia while we briefly lived in Houston, Texas from 1978 to 1979. Notice how record collectors always have stories behind their record purchases unlike people that purely stream music. Haha! I still have that record to this day (along with several sealed copies purchased cheaply about 25 years ago compared to crazy prices today) and it plays perfectly because even as a kid, I took very good care of my things (Toys, books, records, etc.). It launched my lifelong interest in movie scores, soundtracks, and classical music, as well as many other scores by John Williams during his lengthy career. :)
Part of my enjoyment of vinyl records is the large-format artwork, so I almost always take off the shrink wrap. If there is a hype sticker, I carefully remove the shrink, fold it up, and keep it inside the jacket.
On the subject of shrink stickers, I LOVE THEM! I will always just carefully cut a slit along the open-end edge with an Exacto-knife (blade) and leave the shrink on, preserving the shrink sticker at the same time. I then insert the album into a high quality resealable sleeve. This keeps the shrink wrap from becoming damaged and eventually falling or tearing off. Keep the videos coming!
For me, I've always saved the hype stickers. Back in the day with CDs and Cassettes, I'd to the same and cut out the hype stickers. With lp's, I try to keep the shrink intact as possible and fold the shrink up and store it inside the jacket. I love all the bits and pieces. I don't want to lose any of it.
Generally take off the Shrink wrap and cut out the hype stickers. When I sleeve the records, I insert the hype stickers inside the sleeve. I am behind on a lot of this process. 😂 My first record was Elton John’s Greatest Hits volume I. My first stereo (other than my parents console stereo) was a combo record changer, AM/FM radio and 8 track. My bother and I received it as a Christmas gift in the mid to late 70’s. Our sisters got one too. By college, I got a JVC receiver, Kenwood speakers and a used turntable. Later adding a tape deck.
I keep it on "if" it's a hype sticker involved! Gate folds off no matter what! I'm a nerd I guess, I'm obsessed with sound, I'm blessed (or cursed) when it comes to hearing the placement of the instruments and depth (or lack of) of the recording! 😊
Enjoyed this video and the questions that were answered. I enjoy when personal questions get answered (like you talking about your job). Makes you get to know the person on a more personal level.
50+ year collector. I often left shrink on. Never had a single problem or issue with cover or record warpage, increased ringwear, or anything else. As I've sold some of the extras, and acquired others, I usually get a substantial bit more than the same record with no shrink, esp. if the hype or original store stickers are still on. Figure that for every 500 copies of an album, maybe 1 will still have its original packaging intact. Its a collector thing of course, much like books with the original dust jackets or toys with their original stickers or boxes etc.
I usually cut it open with a knife to save the shrink but once I accidentally cut the inner sleeve. I sometimes save the shrink and stickers if they are easy to save.
Loved this one Frank. First record player was the Dorchester with record, cassette and am/fm (I live in 🇨🇦)My buddy wired the turntable with a switch so we could play records backwards...we were 12! First album, used flea market copy of Zep 4 purchased in 1983. First new self purchase was VH 1984 on cassette and Shout at the Devil on vinyl...I did get QR's Cum on Feel the Noize as my first 45. Didn't know you had been a journo for politics in Canada...please run for PM!
I use my thumb nail to open a sealed album. just slide it along the jacket opening and it slices it wide open with minimal chance of damage. I too peel the hype stickers and stick them inside, I find square ones easier to remove than round ones.
For both new and 2nd hand records, I replace the inner sleeves if they are not polylined and add a clear vinyl outer sleeve to all. I always remove the shrinkwrap and add the hype stickers to the clear vinyl outer sleeve.
- Shrinkwrap off, hype sticker off and put it on the inner sleeve. - Cut shrinkwrap with knife - be carefull. - Collectable stuff wil come in variations - buy what you like. - Japanese pressings sometimes are cool, with extra's, if you want to pay extra go for it. - I'm a factory worker - though about opening a record store years ago , in fact a colleague of mine is tempting me at the moment to do this together. - First self bought record - a 45 from The Rubetes - I Can Do It - still got it!
Great vid Frank! After all this time I honestly didn't know what your day job was lol. 1. Any shrink that has a hype sicker on it I leave the shrink on. No hype shrink comes off. 2. Opening shrink. If a simple fingernail won't work, rub the open side across your jeans a few times. Opens easily. 3. Japanese pressings are totally worth it when you can find them for reasonable prices. \m/
I take the shrink wrap off. If a hype sticker is on the shrink, I cut it out and keep it in the jacket. The record itself is placed in an anti static sleeve and returned to the jacket. The album is then placed inside a poly bag and stored. Happy spinning!
I find that leaving the shrink-wrap on increases ringwear. So in a way, a jacket that's well taken care of will be in better condition than that of a sealed record. I get rid of the shrink-wrap as soon as possible. I do keep the hype stickers :)
for opening new records: look for the plastic seam, and rub that seam back and forth several times on your thigh just above the knee. the friction gently peels that seam and you get a clean opening . its a trick I learned from having many friends who have worked at Amoeba Records in san francisco. its fool proof and you will not damage the jacket . I promise . also there is a theory that once the shrink wrap is opened it kinda keeps shrinking and can warp the record over time. just take it all off and get a sleeve protector .
2:25 I have a great X-Acto blade and dissecting needle kit which I use to carefully slice open the shrinkwrap while avoiding damaging the cover, record, inner sleeves, or any additional artwork inside. I used to use scissors, but one can be clumsy with them while X-Acto blades or dissecting needles are more precise. Granted, they can be dangerous too or cause damage if one is not concentrating 100% in the moment. :)
If you love Quiet Riot you have to check out the vids by Slade. Not the one they did AFTER Quiet Riot but the ones from in their early seventies Hey-Day. They where the BOMB and QR owes everything to them. Cum on Feel the Noize, Gudbuy to Jane, Happy Christmas, and tons of others show they were something else that many of us in North America never got exposure to. They sold 50 million records worldwide!!! That's nothing to sneeze at.
I will always remember my first piece of vinyl was a 45 of convoy I got home and ran to my room to play it but fell and cracked it I was 8 years old and I cried like a baby.
The first album I bought with my own money was Red Hot Chili Peppers “Californication” in a Chapters bookstore in 1999, I was 7 years old and previously the only CDs I owned were NSYNC and Backstreet Boys (although at Tim Hortons summer camp I heard Weird Al bootlegs on CD) otherwise the only music I heard was 80s/90s country (from an American border town station). Needless to say Red Hot Chili Peppers was my gateway into music now 25 years ago!
Thanks for sharing I do shrink wrap activity same as yourself, take off for gatefold or leave on if not wrinkled for single sleeve. Look forward to next video
Re: first stereo. I had to toss mine as it wasn't working well, and I was moving cross country. That broke my heart because I loved it. When I moved back east, I found the same model on eBay and purchased it. Same with my 1st tape recorder and an early cd player. Yeah, maybe I'm a little nostalgic.
I also usually leave the shrink on if it's a single pocket jacket and remove it for gatefolds. Gotta see the artwork on the inside! If I remove the shrink then I cut the hype stickers off leaving a little of the shrink around the edges and then stuff it inside the jacket. If the shrink stays on then so does the hype sticker. As for opening a sealed record, I learned a trick from the employees at Easy Street Records in Seattle. I rub the opening edge back and forth across my blue jeans a few times until the friction tears a small hole. I then just slide my finger to the edges until the entire opening is exposed. I'll sometimes use an exacto knife to slice the last bits at the ends if needed, but I can usually open it completely with just my finger. Quick and super easy.
Whenever possible, i keep the shrink and hype stickers on. I have TNT "Knights of the New Thunder" that i bought brand new unopened from 1984 and Blue Oyster Cult "The Revolution by night" too. I went to surgical precision to keep them as is with a little slit to get the vinyl out. All my new vinyls, i keep the shrink and hype stickers. Also, those vinyls who has download codes i don't use. I leave the card in.
I hate shrink wrap from vinyl I’m collecting. I’ll take care of it with my own sleeves. However, I do love a good Hype Sticker. It shows the authenticity of the time it came out and gives it a charm.
To open shrinkwraps i personally rub the opening end of the vinyl sleeve on my pants. The hype stickers i carefully peel off and put on one of my vinyl carycase.
Thanks Frank! I tend to remove the hype stickers and then stick them on the outer sleeve in a spit where they don't interfere with text or artwork. Usually I can peel them, but sometimes cut and tape.
Has nothing to do with being Nerdy, lol. it's about Resale if you decide too. I carefully always slide LP out of the shrink. Always keep Hype stickers attached as is! Now so many LPs are being Reissued, so OG LPs go for alot of money! 🤟💰
Shrink wrap in and of itself does not cause records to warp. It’s a huge myth and collectors tgat pay any type of attention will know that. I even leave ripped shrink wrap on if I can lay it flat into a poly outer sleeve. I like to keep vintage records in as found condition, except cleaning them of course.
Been buying records since the late 70s, I've almost always removed shrinkwrap. That said , there was one album that , for whatever reason , I didn't and looking at it today, I am so glad I didn't. I was a huge Metallica fan when Kill'em All came out so when I saw a record with an ex member , I had to have it. My Killing Is My Business vinyl mentions Dave being an ex member on the hype sticker , so glad I didn't remove it.
When we buy an/or shop used vinyl, if they still have the original shrink, we will keep it on and still put it in an outside sleeve. As far as a new release, we have a “butterfly” knife that we’ve had since new that has only ever been used to open new vinyl and to peel hype stickers on those releases. As far as Japanese vinyl, we’ve always thought the KISS releases were exceptionally cool! #vinyl🎧 #japanesevinyl🇯🇵
I never hesitate to pay 3x premium for a Japanese pressing ... if it's sealed/mint and if the numbers are like 15 vs. 5 euros. Usually, even the fiercest online auctions end up at no more than 30 euro mark - that's a lot but not more than modern reissues.
I was warned that the tight shrinkwrap common here in N America could possibly warp the record, so I always remove it. I recall those suitcase-type stereo players were common in the '70's. I had a GE Trimline and I know the GE Wildcat was quite popular also. If you put that $40 1973 pricing for the Wildcat into the CPI calculator is equals $277 in today's dollars... wow!
RE: variants. I agree. Generally speaking, give me the standard issue album on black vinyl. I'm fine with that. The only exception is for Christmas music, where I might choose something a little more festive, like red or green vinyl.
I recently purchased a 50 year old Budgie album that was still in its original shrink wrap. I started to carefully remove the shrink wrap, but quickly realised that at the same time I was also starting to remove some of the sleeve artwork as well. I fortunately stopped in time not to cause any noticeable damage. It seems that over a number of years, shrink wrap can start to impregnate the sleeve artwork print. I put a note on my Discogs listing, to NOT remove the shrink wrap on this album for the reason stated.
I’ve put particularly cool hype stickers on a bit of wax paper cut to that shape and taped inside plastic sleeve. You can thank metal for all the variants, those guys are nuts.
I am with you Frank, single album, I'll try to leave the shrink on. Gate fold releases, the shrink comes off. For the multiple releases of the same album, I have no interest in owning 5 copies of the same release!
I always remove the shrink wrap. The plastic of the wrap and the cardboard of the sleeve expand and contract at different rates, owing to atmospheric conditions. The cardboard will expand at times yet it will be constricted by the plastic wrap. This was cause the cardboard to ripple and buckle over time. I always remove the shrink wrap but fold it around the hype sticker to preserve it.
I always take the shrink wrap off, and then I stick the hype sticker on the protective outer sleeve that the record will go in, so I can preserve the sticker, protect the jacket and not permanently obstruct the artwork all at once
After a few years of collecting, I've adopted a variant rule. Unless it's one of my favorite bands, I only pick the variant I think looks the best. If it's one of my favorite bands, I'll VC (variant collect) the album as long as there's no more than 3 variants. If it goes over 3, I pick the variant I think looks best and go with that one. Trying to collect more than 3 variants is too hard on the wallet.
I'm like you with hype stickers always save them one way or another and try to place inside my protective sleeve with the album. Will be commenting on your rooms section with a video soon.
OK, this is to open the car. The record itself. I saw a guy at the record store. Take the parts of the side of where the sleeve opens and rubs it against his leg. He said the shrink wrap is so thin that the heat from the rubbing, it will open it up and he was right it opened up almost completely except for a little bit on the bottom so I’m gonna start doing
I was goofy about it early on, too, now I’ll just get rid of the shrink and get the hype sticker off and place it on my outer sleeve. That way I can enjoy the album art and gatefolds as intended.
Shrink may not only damage the sleeve, but if it’s on tightly enough, may warp the record over decades. See it all the time in old collections. In fact, an OG copy of Born in the USA came in the shop a couple weeks ago…still in unopened shrink. Purchased in the 80s and never opened. It’s warped so badly now that it might as well be a soup bowl.
I used to keep the shrink wrap on but eventually they tend to tear and just look trashy. I think the only thing I still have fully factory shrinkwrapped is the picture disc sound track to Peter Jackson's Bad Taste movie, which also contains a poster. I bought two of those way back when and just kept one as it came from the factory, unopened and 100% mint. Great soundtrack, love that movie, have the picture disk vinyl for Meet the Feebles too. Such a fun flick!
I take it off , put the cover in a Blake sleeve, sticker keep inside, I don't like stickers obscuring the artwork, I can put the stickers back on the cover if I want to ,or whoever gets the record in future can leave it on or off.
Re Japanese pressings: Japan is basically a pressing for the Japanese market. It's definitely a smaller market than say the USA. So they're a bit on the rare side.
Regarding Japanese versions of albums; I am given to understand that they add bonus tracks in order to ensure that Japanese consumers buy the pressings made in Japan rather than those made in Europe or the US. Autechre has often released albums in Japan with bonus tracks for that reason. I don't know with what grace they accept that situation, but they do provide the bonus tracks for Japanese releases.
I don't like the look of the shrink being left on, but I do look the hype stickers. Sticking it on an inner sleeve is a good idea. My first stereo was a Sony two deck boom box that I got a ton of use out of.
I paid $300 for The Originals II a few years back at a record con. I couldn't believe someone had a copy of it. It was missing some of the goodies which made it cheaper. This collection starts at $600 or more if complete.
I always take the shrink wrap off. If the hype sticker is on the wrap that goes in the bin too. If the hype sticker is on the sleeve and it cannot be removed I leave it on.
Quite simple for me Frank. Single albums- shrink wrap on , gatefolds- wrap off and I cut the hype stickers off and place inside. Depending on the artist, I will buy a number of versions of a new release, especially Gary Numan.(and sometime a tape version as well) First own record player was a big suitcase fidelity version and then at age 15, I bought a stereo unit from Woolworths. It was pretty good with a lever for the tone arm, but the stylus was poor. Stepped up to a Sony stack-system when I started earning a wage. Great video & Keep on spinnin !!
I do not keep any albums in the shrink, I have seen many issues with prolonged shrink actually “shrinking” 😂 and thus warping the record. I save all hype stickers, I simply cut them out and drop them into the jacket. I feel keeping the hype sticker is important as it not only keeps the record complete but in some instances it has the barcode on it and that’s a huge identifier as to what edition you have. All the editions…. No not for me, first choice is a good old black record, I don’t need every variant, tho it took me a few years to finally (last week) get all 6 Led Zeppelin “In Through The Outdoor” cover variants, “D” was the final piece, now on to get a better “C” and “E”, oh the rabbit hole 😂🤣🤘
I don’t do shrink wrap or outer sleeves. I also get rid of generic paper inners. If I purchase a record with an outer plastic sleeve I ask the proprietor if I can just leave the aforementioned outer with them. Most of the time they’re happy to keep the outer. It’s not that I don’t have a few choice records in nice plastic outers, but 99% of the collection is covered by decorative cardboard outers. I feel it’s most important that the playable vinyl is ensconced in anti static sleeves inside the decorative cardboard.
A few things on Japanese pressings. I was in Tokyo in April and i had my hands on Originals 2, but 230 american, just couldn't do it. Now, if you are in Japan, the premium is not there. I came back with about 35 records and the most i spent on a Japanese press was maybe 20. I spent on average 5 to 15 and i got my hands on some hard to find Japanese Promo copies of 80's metal albums. I would have gotten more but for room. Now if i bought those same releases from dealers here, i wouldn't own them , i will leave it at that. I did get a Japanese press of Rock N Roll Over and it multiple times better than the American press.
Japan records are pretty much the ONLY used vinyl i buy, that are almost 100% kept perfect. You really dont even have to think about vg/ ex whatever, they are usually perfect. Either, they dont play them, or their very meticulous about care of
Shrink wrap comes off. I peel off the hype sticker - most of them come off pretty easily nowadays - and stick it on an inner poly sleeve. If I have to replace the poly sleeve, the sticker peels right off.
I'm a slit the shrink person with an exacto knife. Since I Iike buying OG pressings with the shrink and hype sticker on I figure someday someone will like the same with my collection. I do lose out on the awesome inside stuff though, so that part definitely sucks.
Started keeping the shrink wrap on, then warned of the warping dangers, so I've stripped the shrink wrap since. Bought a John Fred & his Playboy Band lp, "Agnes English," at a cut-out bin. Nice band photo on the jacket with a hype sticker "Includes Judy in Disguise." Tried to peel off the hype sticker but made a mess of things. When Judy became the dominant hit, the record company repackaged the lp with graphic art design, retitling the lp "Judy in Disguise." The Agnes jacket is more eye appealing.
That record player of your moms almost sounded like a Panasonic SG-515, but maybe not. I can picture exactly what it is. It was an all in 1 unit that folded up nice and neat. Unless it was an old Califone record player. They had the fold down type doors. And i would imagine you could plug in any speaker, as long as you had the right connection.
I generally cut the hype sticker off the shrink wrap and just put it inside the album jacket. If it’s actually on the cover itself, I usually leave it on. Same deal with CDs. With the coloured variants, I don’t go out of my way for them, tho I have been getting some of the Kiss anniversary editions the last few years. Throughly enjoyable watching the Kiss fans and Ace fans argue 😂 Kiss puts something out and the Ace fans label it a cash grab, but when there are 20 odd variants of Ace’s (really Steve Brown) solo album, it’s “oh isn’t it cool there are all different colours” 😊😂
How to open sealed records? A guitar pick all the time. It opens records neat and clean-trust me.
Thanks I have a bunch of picks but never thought of that
Haha! Cool idea but they'd all end up down the back of my sofa or wherever else these things mysteriously end up in.
I use a new/near new razor blade, just be careful and it's pretty easy!
The first stereo I was allowed to use was my Fathers Superscope Marantz R-350 Stereo Receiver. Eventually he gave it to me and I still have it and use it. It worth a lot more now than what he originally paid for it. The first album I bought with my own money back in 1975 (I was 10) was "Desolation Boulevard" by Sweet.
You can "wiggle" the entire shrink off in one piece. Fold it and preserve it in the sleeve pocket. Modern shrink can be carefully slipped back on for resale.
Here's what I do: I peel off the hype stiucker and stick it on the outer sleeve in the same spot it was on the shrink.
Was going to say the same thing
it's what I do as well
Same here. Makes perfect sense
I do the same as well
My first lp was Grand Funk Railroad, Live Album. I was 12. Still have it
I used to cut along the edge of the shrink and leave the hype stickers on. Recently, I made a record cleaning machine and I'm going through all my records, cleaning and giving them new Mo-Fi inner sleeves and new outter sleeves. All the original shrink is coming off. I'm cutting out the hype stickers and sliding them inside the jacket. I'm also keeping the records outside the jacket in the back of the outter sleeve and entering them into discogs at the same time. Very tedious work. I've done about 100 over the last week and have about 500 more to go. Great channel and content!
Always take the shrink off, if I can I peel off the hype sticker too and put it on the inner sleeve. 😂
I always remove the tight shrink wrap.
Been saving my hype stickers since the 70s.
Always take the shrink rap off, as in the past old shrink caused damage (got stuck to cover). Apparently it can shrink as well though not had the issue.
13:25 The first record I ever bought with my own money was 'The Empire Strikes Back' score composed and conducted by John Williams as performed by the London Symphony Orchestra.
I bought it when I was 10 years old back in 1980 shortly after having seen the movie and it still plays perfectly to this day and the gatefold cover, liner notes, and inner sleeves are all in great shape too.
Classic soundtrack. 👍
My first record was a mail order Elvis album that I saw advertised on TV. That was back in 1973. I was 7 years old and I remember seeing it on one of my first days off from summer vacation from school. On the cover he had his white jump suit with a blue background and a yellow strip on the bottom. It was a complication album put out on RCA. Back then to order those, it was like send a $4 check or money order to blah blah PO Box Grand Central Station in NY allow 8 - 12 weeks delivery. This was the first week of summer vacation in June and I didn't get it until I started my first week of school in September. That was normal back then for ordering things via mail. I still have that album but haven't played in in close to 50 years. I need to clean it off someday and give it a spin.
That would be “Elvis” (DPL2-0056)! I recall the TV commercial for that very popular album with the announcer’s voice bellowing out “ELVIS” and to send a self-addressed stamped envelope to “Hound Dog”, which went to Brookville Records. Just one of my many Elvis memories!
I have that one also. I got it used about 30 years ago, when I started collecting vinyl hardcore
13:25 The first music record I ever received was when I was 7 years old (almost 8) which was the 'Star Wars' (1977) double-LP set composed and conducted by John Williams with the London Symphony Orchestra. My father had bought me the album while I was recovering from pneumonia while we briefly lived in Houston, Texas from 1978 to 1979. Notice how record collectors always have stories behind their record purchases unlike people that purely stream music. Haha!
I still have that record to this day (along with several sealed copies purchased cheaply about 25 years ago compared to crazy prices today) and it plays perfectly because even as a kid, I took very good care of my things (Toys, books, records, etc.).
It launched my lifelong interest in movie scores, soundtracks, and classical music, as well as many other scores by John Williams during his lengthy career. :)
All my albums go into new clear sleeves sans shrink wrap. I trim out the hype stickers and put in the front of the sleeve.
Part of my enjoyment of vinyl records is the large-format artwork, so I almost always take off the shrink wrap. If there is a hype sticker, I carefully remove the shrink, fold it up, and keep it inside the jacket.
A great TH-cam channel entertaining and informative always a good watch
I appreciate that!
On the subject of shrink stickers, I LOVE THEM! I will always just carefully cut a slit along the open-end edge with an Exacto-knife (blade) and leave the shrink on, preserving the shrink sticker at the same time. I then insert the album into a high quality resealable sleeve. This keeps the shrink wrap from becoming damaged and eventually falling or tearing off. Keep the videos coming!
For me, I've always saved the hype stickers. Back in the day with CDs and Cassettes, I'd to the same and cut out the hype stickers. With lp's, I try to keep the shrink intact as possible and fold the shrink up and store it inside the jacket. I love all the bits and pieces. I don't want to lose any of it.
Generally take off the Shrink wrap and cut out the hype stickers. When I sleeve the records, I insert the hype stickers inside the sleeve. I am behind on a lot of this process. 😂
My first record was Elton John’s Greatest Hits volume I. My first stereo (other than my parents console stereo) was a combo record changer, AM/FM radio and 8 track. My bother and I received it as a Christmas gift in the mid to late 70’s. Our sisters got one too. By college, I got a JVC receiver, Kenwood speakers and a used turntable. Later adding a tape deck.
I keep it on "if" it's a hype sticker involved! Gate folds off no matter what! I'm a nerd I guess, I'm obsessed with sound, I'm blessed (or cursed) when it comes to hearing the placement of the instruments and depth (or lack of) of the recording! 😊
Enjoyed this video and the questions that were answered. I enjoy when personal questions get answered (like you talking about your job). Makes you get to know the person on a more personal level.
Thanks for tuning in!
50+ year collector. I often left shrink on. Never had a single problem or issue with cover or record warpage, increased ringwear, or anything else. As I've sold some of the extras, and acquired others, I usually get a substantial bit more than the same record with no shrink, esp. if the hype or original store stickers are still on. Figure that for every 500 copies of an album, maybe 1 will still have its original packaging intact. Its a collector thing of course, much like books with the original dust jackets or toys with their original stickers or boxes etc.
I usually cut it open with a knife to save the shrink but once I accidentally cut the inner sleeve. I sometimes save the shrink and stickers if they are easy to save.
Loved this one Frank. First record player was the Dorchester with record, cassette and am/fm (I live in 🇨🇦)My buddy wired the turntable with a switch so we could play records backwards...we were 12! First album, used flea market copy of Zep 4 purchased in 1983. First new self purchase was VH 1984 on cassette and Shout at the Devil on vinyl...I did get QR's Cum on Feel the Noize as my first 45. Didn't know you had been a journo for politics in Canada...please run for PM!
On gatefolds I'll cut the hype sticker out and put inside the outer sleeve. Singles I leave intact as much as possible. Killer Royal Blood record BTW!
I use my thumb nail to open a sealed album. just slide it along the jacket opening and it slices it wide open with minimal chance of damage. I too peel the hype stickers and stick them inside, I find square ones easier to remove than round ones.
For both new and 2nd hand records, I replace the inner sleeves if they are not polylined and add a clear vinyl outer sleeve to all. I always remove the shrinkwrap and add the hype stickers to the clear vinyl outer sleeve.
- Shrinkwrap off, hype sticker off and put it on the inner sleeve.
- Cut shrinkwrap with knife - be carefull.
- Collectable stuff wil come in variations - buy what you like.
- Japanese pressings sometimes are cool, with extra's, if you want to pay extra go for it.
- I'm a factory worker - though about opening a record store years ago , in fact a colleague of mine is tempting me at the moment to do this together.
- First self bought record - a 45 from The Rubetes - I Can Do It - still got it!
Great vid Frank! After all this time I honestly didn't know what your day job was lol.
1. Any shrink that has a hype sicker on it I leave the shrink on. No hype shrink comes off.
2. Opening shrink. If a simple fingernail won't work, rub the open side across your jeans a few times. Opens easily.
3. Japanese pressings are totally worth it when you can find them for reasonable prices. \m/
I take the shrink wrap off. If a hype sticker is on the shrink, I cut it out and keep it in the jacket. The record itself is placed in an anti static sleeve and returned to the jacket. The album is then placed inside a poly bag and stored. Happy spinning!
I find that leaving the shrink-wrap on increases ringwear. So in a way, a jacket that's well taken care of will be in better condition than that of a sealed record. I get rid of the shrink-wrap as soon as possible. I do keep the hype stickers :)
for opening new records: look for the plastic seam, and rub that seam back and forth several times on your thigh just above the knee. the friction gently peels that seam and you get a clean opening . its a trick I learned from having many friends who have worked at Amoeba Records in san francisco. its fool proof and you will not damage the jacket . I promise .
also there is a theory that once the shrink wrap is opened it kinda keeps shrinking and can warp the record over time. just take it all off and get a sleeve protector .
2:25 I have a great X-Acto blade and dissecting needle kit which I use to carefully slice open the shrinkwrap while avoiding damaging the cover, record, inner sleeves, or any additional artwork inside.
I used to use scissors, but one can be clumsy with them while X-Acto blades or dissecting needles are more precise. Granted, they can be dangerous too or cause damage if one is not concentrating 100% in the moment. :)
In the 80's I peeled hype stickers off and decorated my boombox with them.
If you love Quiet Riot you have to check out the vids by Slade. Not the one they did AFTER Quiet Riot but the ones from in their early seventies Hey-Day. They where the BOMB and QR owes everything to them. Cum on Feel the Noize, Gudbuy to Jane, Happy Christmas, and tons of others show they were something else that many of us in North America never got exposure to. They sold 50 million records worldwide!!! That's nothing to sneeze at.
I have never done a deep dive into the Slade catalog, but I should. I hear a lot of good things.
I take hyper stickers off and put them inside the sleeve.I prefer black vinyl but do have some coloured vinyl.
Thanks for sharing your memories with us Frank! Have a blessed week! 🙏
Thank you!
I will always remember my first piece of vinyl was a 45 of convoy I got home and ran to my room to play it but fell and cracked it I was 8 years old and I cried like a baby.
Ouch... I would have cried like a baby as well
The first album I bought with my own money was Red Hot Chili Peppers “Californication” in a Chapters bookstore in 1999, I was 7 years old and previously the only CDs I owned were NSYNC and Backstreet Boys (although at Tim Hortons summer camp I heard Weird Al bootlegs on CD) otherwise the only music I heard was 80s/90s country (from an American border town station). Needless to say Red Hot Chili Peppers was my gateway into music now 25 years ago!
Thanks for sharing
I do shrink wrap activity same as yourself, take off for gatefold or leave on if not wrinkled for single sleeve.
Look forward to next video
Thanks!
Re: first stereo. I had to toss mine as it wasn't working well, and I was moving cross country. That broke my heart because I loved it.
When I moved back east, I found the same model on eBay and purchased it. Same with my 1st tape recorder and an early cd player.
Yeah, maybe I'm a little nostalgic.
I also usually leave the shrink on if it's a single pocket jacket and remove it for gatefolds. Gotta see the artwork on the inside! If I remove the shrink then I cut the hype stickers off leaving a little of the shrink around the edges and then stuff it inside the jacket. If the shrink stays on then so does the hype sticker.
As for opening a sealed record, I learned a trick from the employees at Easy Street Records in Seattle. I rub the opening edge back and forth across my blue jeans a few times until the friction tears a small hole. I then just slide my finger to the edges until the entire opening is exposed. I'll sometimes use an exacto knife to slice the last bits at the ends if needed, but I can usually open it completely with just my finger. Quick and super easy.
We did that in Texas too.
Whenever possible, i keep the shrink and hype stickers on. I have TNT "Knights of the New Thunder" that i bought brand new unopened from 1984 and Blue Oyster Cult "The Revolution by night" too. I went to surgical precision to keep them as is with a little slit to get the vinyl out. All my new vinyls, i keep the shrink and hype stickers. Also, those vinyls who has download codes i don't use. I leave the card in.
I hate shrink wrap from vinyl I’m collecting. I’ll take care of it with my own sleeves. However, I do love a good Hype Sticker. It shows the authenticity of the time it came out and gives it a charm.
To open shrinkwraps i personally rub the opening end of the vinyl sleeve on my pants.
The hype stickers i carefully peel off and put on one of my vinyl carycase.
I worked in record retail many, many years ago. We reshrinkwrapped stuff all the time.
A good compromise is that I put all my records in spincare resealable sleeves and transfer the hype stickers on to them 👍🇬🇧
Thanks Frank! I tend to remove the hype stickers and then stick them on the outer sleeve in a spit where they don't interfere with text or artwork. Usually I can peel them, but sometimes cut and tape.
Yes baseball and sports cards have variants as well
I take the shrinkwrap off, but I take the hype sticker and put it on a flash card and put it in the sleeve.
Has nothing to do with being Nerdy, lol. it's about Resale if you decide too. I carefully always slide LP out of the shrink. Always keep Hype stickers attached as is! Now so many LPs are being Reissued, so OG LPs go for alot of money! 🤟💰
Shrink wrap in and of itself does not cause records to warp. It’s a huge myth and collectors tgat pay any type of attention will know that. I even leave ripped shrink wrap on if I can lay it flat into a poly outer sleeve. I like to keep vintage records in as found condition, except cleaning them of course.
Been buying records since the late 70s, I've almost always removed shrinkwrap. That said , there was one album that , for whatever reason , I didn't and looking at it today, I am so glad I didn't. I was a huge Metallica fan when Kill'em All came out so when I saw a record with an ex member , I had to have it.
My Killing Is My Business vinyl mentions Dave being an ex member on the hype sticker , so glad I didn't remove it.
When we buy an/or shop used vinyl, if they still have the original shrink, we will keep it on and still put it in an outside sleeve. As far as a new release, we have a “butterfly” knife that we’ve had since new that has only ever been used to open new vinyl and to peel hype stickers on those releases. As far as Japanese vinyl, we’ve always thought the KISS releases were exceptionally cool! #vinyl🎧 #japanesevinyl🇯🇵
Japanese KISS albums are awesome!
That's funny! I pretty much do the same. I have several stickers peeled and stuck to the outer sleeve, and a few cut out and placed in the jacket.
I never hesitate to pay 3x premium for a Japanese pressing ... if it's sealed/mint and if the numbers are like 15 vs. 5 euros.
Usually, even the fiercest online auctions end up at no more than 30 euro mark - that's a lot but not more than modern reissues.
I was warned that the tight shrinkwrap common here in N America could possibly warp the record, so I always remove it. I recall those suitcase-type stereo players were common in the '70's. I had a GE Trimline and I know the GE Wildcat was quite popular also. If you put that $40 1973 pricing for the Wildcat into the CPI calculator is equals $277 in today's dollars... wow!
RE: variants. I agree. Generally speaking, give me the standard issue album on black vinyl. I'm fine with that.
The only exception is for Christmas music, where I might choose something a little more festive, like red or green vinyl.
I recently purchased a 50 year old Budgie album that was still in its original shrink wrap. I started to carefully remove the shrink wrap, but quickly realised that at the same time I was also starting to remove some of the sleeve artwork as well. I fortunately stopped in time not to cause any noticeable damage. It seems that over a number of years, shrink wrap can start to impregnate the sleeve artwork print. I put a note on my Discogs listing, to NOT remove the shrink wrap on this album for the reason stated.
I’ve put particularly cool hype stickers on a bit of wax paper cut to that shape and taped inside plastic sleeve. You can thank metal for all the variants, those guys are nuts.
I am with you Frank, single album, I'll try to leave the shrink on. Gate fold releases, the shrink comes off. For the multiple releases of the same album, I have no interest in owning 5 copies of the same release!
I use a guitar pick to open albums. Works great. Doesn’t destroy anything.
I always remove the shrink wrap. The plastic of the wrap and the cardboard of the sleeve expand and contract at different rates, owing to atmospheric conditions. The cardboard will expand at times yet it will be constricted by the plastic wrap. This was cause the cardboard to ripple and buckle over time. I always remove the shrink wrap but fold it around the hype sticker to preserve it.
I always take the shrink wrap off, and then I stick the hype sticker on the protective outer sleeve that the record will go in, so I can preserve the sticker, protect the jacket and not permanently obstruct the artwork all at once
I use a guitar pick to cut the shrink. It can't damage anything
Good tip - I'm going to try this. Thanks!
After a few years of collecting, I've adopted a variant rule. Unless it's one of my favorite bands, I only pick the variant I think looks the best. If it's one of my favorite bands, I'll VC (variant collect) the album as long as there's no more than 3 variants. If it goes over 3, I pick the variant I think looks best and go with that one. Trying to collect more than 3 variants is too hard on the wallet.
I'm like you with hype stickers always save them one way or another and try to place inside my protective sleeve with the album.
Will be commenting on your rooms section with a video soon.
OK, this is to open the car. The record itself. I saw a guy at the record store. Take the parts of the side of where the sleeve opens and rubs it against his leg. He said the shrink wrap is so thin that the heat from the rubbing, it will open it up and he was right it opened up almost completely except for a little bit on the bottom so I’m gonna start doing
Yep, it works.
It works especially well if you wear jeans.
Frank so jealous of that Originals 2! Been on my list for a long time. Such a cool release with all the extras included
That album was definitely a grail for me.
Really cool Answers and a cool looking Inside behind this Channel :) I'm thankful that you do this :)
I was goofy about it early on, too, now I’ll just get rid of the shrink and get the hype sticker off and place it on my outer sleeve. That way I can enjoy the album art and gatefolds as intended.
Shrink may not only damage the sleeve, but if it’s on tightly enough, may warp the record over decades. See it all the time in old collections. In fact, an OG copy of Born in the USA came in the shop a couple weeks ago…still in unopened shrink. Purchased in the 80s and never opened. It’s warped so badly now that it might as well be a soup bowl.
I use a guitar pick to slit the shrink wrap. But keep the shrink on
I used to keep the shrink wrap on but eventually they tend to tear and just look trashy. I think the only thing I still have fully factory shrinkwrapped is the picture disc sound track to Peter Jackson's Bad Taste movie, which also contains a poster. I bought two of those way back when and just kept one as it came from the factory, unopened and 100% mint. Great soundtrack, love that movie, have the picture disk vinyl for Meet the Feebles too. Such a fun flick!
I take it off , put the cover in a Blake sleeve, sticker keep inside, I don't like stickers obscuring the artwork, I can put the stickers back on the cover if I want to ,or whoever gets the record in future can leave it on or off.
Re Japanese pressings: Japan is basically a pressing for the Japanese market. It's definitely a smaller market than say the USA. So they're a bit on the rare side.
Shrink stays on until I'm ready to play the record. Then it's a slit using a razor, just to get the vinyl out.
Regarding Japanese versions of albums; I am given to understand that they add bonus tracks in order to ensure that Japanese consumers buy the pressings made in Japan rather than those made in Europe or the US. Autechre has often released albums in Japan with bonus tracks for that reason. I don't know with what grace they accept that situation, but they do provide the bonus tracks for Japanese releases.
Great show. Entertaining as always. Cheers 🍻 👏
Thanks!
I put a small piece of clear tape over the shrink wrap on the two corners at the opening. Keeps it from tearing.
I don't like the look of the shrink being left on, but I do look the hype stickers. Sticking it on an inner sleeve is a good idea.
My first stereo was a Sony two deck boom box that I got a ton of use out of.
I paid $300 for The Originals II a few years back at a record con. I couldn't believe someone had a copy of it. It was missing some of the goodies which made it cheaper. This collection starts at $600 or more if complete.
I always take the shrink wrap off. If the hype sticker is on the wrap that goes in the bin too. If the hype sticker is on the sleeve and it cannot be removed I leave it on.
Shrink off , hype stickers YES !! …. I save my hype and put them on my plastic sleeve if possible
Quite simple for me Frank. Single albums- shrink wrap on , gatefolds- wrap off and I cut the hype stickers off and place inside. Depending on the artist, I will buy a number of versions of a new release, especially Gary Numan.(and sometime a tape version as well) First own record player was a big suitcase fidelity version and then at age 15, I bought a stereo unit from Woolworths. It was pretty good with a lever for the tone arm, but the stylus was poor. Stepped up to a Sony stack-system when I started earning a wage. Great video & Keep on spinnin !!
I cut out the hype sticker and put it between the outer sleeve and album.
I studied to be a teacher (High School History) did it for a year. And was of the mind I need to do something else.
I have a growing box of hype stickers and digital download cards. Anything that I don't want to get crushed by sliding the record in and out.
I found using a single edged razor blade works best opening albums.
Hi Frank. A other great video. Always interesting.
I own 30thousand vinyl, and i dont have room for ONE variation, much less several. Im so packed now, i have to ditch a vinyl for everyone i buy
I always eat the hype sticker. Makes me feel at one with the artist.
Salt and pepper, or plain?
I tend to dip them in yum yum sauce.
I do not keep any albums in the shrink, I have seen many issues with prolonged shrink actually “shrinking” 😂 and thus warping the record.
I save all hype stickers, I simply cut them out and drop them into the jacket. I feel keeping the hype sticker is important as it not only keeps the record complete but in some instances it has the barcode on it and that’s a huge identifier as to what edition you have.
All the editions…. No not for me, first choice is a good old black record, I don’t need every variant, tho it took me a few years to finally (last week) get all 6 Led Zeppelin “In Through The Outdoor” cover variants, “D” was the final piece, now on to get a better “C” and “E”, oh the rabbit hole 😂🤣🤘
I don’t do shrink wrap or outer sleeves. I also get rid of generic paper inners. If I purchase a record with an outer plastic sleeve I ask the proprietor if I can just leave the aforementioned outer with them. Most of the time they’re happy to keep the outer. It’s not that I don’t have a few choice records in nice plastic outers, but 99% of the collection is covered by decorative cardboard outers. I feel it’s most important that the playable vinyl is ensconced in anti static sleeves inside the decorative cardboard.
A few things on Japanese pressings. I was in Tokyo in April and i had my hands on Originals 2, but 230 american, just couldn't do it.
Now, if you are in Japan, the premium is not there. I came back with about 35 records and the most i spent on a Japanese press was maybe 20. I spent on average 5 to 15 and i got my hands on some hard to find Japanese Promo copies of 80's metal albums. I would have gotten more but for room. Now if i bought those same releases from dealers here, i wouldn't own them , i will leave it at that. I did get a Japanese press of Rock N Roll Over and it multiple times better than the American press.
Japan records are pretty much the ONLY used vinyl i buy, that are almost 100% kept perfect. You really dont even have to think about vg/ ex whatever, they are usually perfect. Either, they dont play them, or their very meticulous about care of
Shrink wrap comes off. I peel off the hype sticker - most of them come off pretty easily nowadays - and stick it on an inner poly sleeve. If I have to replace the poly sleeve, the sticker peels right off.
I'm a slit the shrink person with an exacto knife. Since I Iike buying OG pressings with the shrink and hype sticker on I figure someday someone will like the same with my collection. I do lose out on the awesome inside stuff though, so that part definitely sucks.
Frank your the best you have multiple variations how many copies of Black Sabbath’s first album or master of reality do you have?
Oh man... lots! I guess I do collect multiple variations lol.
Started keeping the shrink wrap on, then warned of the warping dangers, so I've stripped the shrink wrap since.
Bought a John Fred & his Playboy Band lp, "Agnes English," at a cut-out bin. Nice band photo on the jacket with a hype sticker "Includes Judy in Disguise." Tried to peel off the hype sticker but made a mess of things.
When Judy became the dominant hit, the record company repackaged the lp with graphic art design, retitling the lp "Judy in Disguise." The Agnes jacket is more eye appealing.
That record player of your moms almost sounded like a Panasonic SG-515, but maybe not.
I can picture exactly what it is. It was an all in 1 unit that folded up nice and neat.
Unless it was an old Califone record player. They had the fold down type doors. And i would imagine you could plug in any speaker, as long as you had the right connection.
I asked her yesterday, and she said it was an RCA. I'm going to try to track down an image of it.
I generally cut the hype sticker off the shrink wrap and just put it inside the album jacket. If it’s actually on the cover itself, I usually leave it on. Same deal with CDs.
With the coloured variants, I don’t go out of my way for them, tho I have been getting some of the Kiss anniversary editions the last few years.
Throughly enjoyable watching the Kiss fans and Ace fans argue 😂
Kiss puts something out and the Ace fans label it a cash grab, but when there are 20 odd variants of Ace’s (really Steve Brown) solo album, it’s “oh isn’t it cool there are all different colours”
😊😂