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The value of of the sealed record.

Like many collectors, I own and collect a number of sealed LP's. However, after my latest acquisition, I got to thinking that perhaps owning a sealed LP isn't that great an idea. Why do we buy sealed LP's?? Well, I guess most of us like the idea that nobody has played the piece before. Unfortunately, I suspect that like many other collectors and music lovers, we leave the piece in question- still sealed. For what reason??? Is it that we are expecting the next collector to value it more highly, therefore using it as an investment vehicle. I think this is a factor is many instances. Problem is, at what point does the sealed LP actually get opened? Do we open it and enjoy the music, do we open it and find the vinyl inside is actually damaged? Do we open it only on special occasions? Are we actually fooling ourselves thinking the sealed LP is in Mint condition?  What is the value of the sealed record to you?

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tostadosunidos's avatar
tostadosunidos
1,197 posts
 
I have only one sealed album, and I bought it to replace my original copy, which still sounds good.  Unfortunately it hasn't appreciated greatly in 30-plus years.  FWIW it's the reissue of the 13th Floor Elevators' "Easter Everywhere," which is a classic to me.  Someday I'll break the seal and give it a spin. 
lenmc2964's avatar
lenmc2964
240 posts
 
I only buy Still Sealed from sellers I know or have a history with. Bought too many off eBay that when I opened them they were warped. I also agree records are meant to be listened to. 
shoresaudio's avatar
shoresaudio
20 posts
 
Sealed is the only way to ensure that a record is in good condition. I have bought SO many records from 'reliable' sources, which look mint, but only play VG.

That is my experience also. At least half the used vinyl I buy lately is not satisfactory--it has too much wear (groove burn) to enjoy it.  They can look clean and scratch-free but they do not play well.  With sealed, at least the vinyl is untouched (even if it has other flaws).  I know it won't be worn.

Life is too short for me to buy anything I will not use.  If it's sealed, I open it.  Although I wish I'd bought a dozen or so of those popular limited edition LPs a few years ago that now sell for 2x-3x the original MSRP.  Gotta fund this crazy hobby somehow. ;)
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tonykay
1,301 posts
 
Dover,

You must be an accountant. One that always sees the glass half empty. Considering that these records survived the stock market crashes of 2000 and 2008 without a loss, the 5% return was consistent with my municipal bonds. Also, since I sold them privately, they were tax free. So, yes, they were a good investment!
jnovak's avatar
jnovak
420 posts
 
The people who pay top dollar for rare records like them sealed. I think they are a different breed than us audiophiles. My first wife was a virgin. Oh boy what a mistake for me! Drive that car before you buy it!
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