The decision of whether or not to keep your vinyls sealed is a personal one. There are pros and cons to both options, and the best choice for you will depend on your individual circumstances and preferences.
Arguments for Keeping Vinyls Sealed
- Sealed records are worth more. In general, sealed records are worth more than opened records, especially if they are rare or collectible. This is because sealed records are considered to be in mint condition, while opened records may have been played and may show signs of wear.
- Sealed records are protected from damage. The shrink wrap and cardboard sleeve can help to protect the record from dust, scratches, and other damage. This can help to keep the record in mint condition for many years to come.
- Sealed records are a collectible item. Some people collect sealed vinyl records as a way to invest in their favorite artists or albums. Sealed records can also be a conversation piece or a way to show off your taste in music.
Arguments for Opening Vinyls
- You want to listen to the music. After all, vinyl records are meant to be played, not just kept in a box. If you have a record that you really want to listen to, then there’s no reason to keep it sealed.
- You’re concerned about warping. Sealed vinyl records are more likely to warp over time, as the shrink wrap continues to shrink. By opening the record, you can allow it to breathe and help to prevent warping.
- You don’t care about the value. If you’re not a collector and you don’t care about the value of your records, then there’s no reason to keep them sealed. You can open them and enjoy them without worrying about losing any money.
Which is the Right Decision?
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to keep your vinyls sealed is up to you. There are valid arguments to be made on both sides of the issue. If you are a collector who is concerned about the value of your records, then you may want to keep them sealed. However, if you are a collector who wants to listen to your records and enjoy them, then you may want to open them.
Here are some tips for opening sealed vinyl safely:
- Use a sharp knife or razor blade to carefully cut the shrink wrap. Be careful not to cut the record itself.
- Once the shrink wrap is cut, remove the record from the sleeve. Be careful not to bend or warp the record.
- Store the record in a cool, dry place.
By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your vinyl records stay in good condition, whether you choose to keep them sealed or open.