There are a few ways to tell where a vinyl record was pressed:
- Look at the matrix numbers. The matrix numbers are etched into the run-out groove of the record. The first few letters of the matrix number will often indicate the pressing plant. For example, matrix numbers that start with “RL” or “ST-###” typically indicate that the record was pressed at the RecordLand pressing plant in the United States.
- Look at the record label. Some record labels will print the country of pressing on the record label. For example, Columbia Records pressings from the 1970s and 1980s will often have the text “Made in U.S.A.” printed on the record label.
- Look at the record sleeve. Some record sleeves will print the country of pressing on the sleeve. For example, record sleeves from the United Kingdom will often have the text “Printed in England” printed on the sleeve.
Here are some additional tips for identifying where a vinyl record was pressed:
- Do your research. There is a lot of information available online and in print about vinyl pressing plants. Do some research to learn more about the specific record you are interested in.
- Compare records. If you have access to multiple copies of the same record, compare them to see if there are any differences in the matrix numbers, record label, or record sleeve.
- Ask for help. If you are not sure where a vinyl record was pressed, ask for help from a record collector or a record store employee.
It is important to note that there is no foolproof way to tell where a vinyl record was pressed. However, by following the tips above, you can increase your chances of identifying where a record was pressed.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind when identifying where a vinyl record was pressed:
- Different record labels have different practices when it comes to pressing records. Some record labels may press their records at multiple pressing plants. Other record labels may press their records at a single pressing plant.
- Reissues of records can sometimes be pressed at different pressing plants than the original release. It is important to be aware of this and to do your research to make sure that you are buying a genuine first pressing.
- The value of a vinyl record can vary depending on the pressing plant. Some pressing plants are known for producing high-quality records, while others are not.
If you are serious about collecting vinyl records, it is important to do your research and to be aware of the different factors that can affect the value of a record.
