There are a few things you can look for to determine if a vinyl record is real:
- Label: Official vinyl records will have a label on the center of the record with the artist name, album title, record label, and catalog number. The label should be well-printed and free of errors.
- Artwork: Official vinyl records will also have artwork on the front and back of the jacket. The artwork should be high-quality and free of errors.
- Barcode: Official vinyl records will typically have a barcode on the back of the jacket. You can use a barcode scanner app to check the barcode and see if it matches the catalog number on the label.
- Weight: Official vinyl records are typically heavier than bootleg vinyl records. You can hold the record in your hand to see if it feels heavy and well-made.
- Sound quality: If you have a turntable, you can play the record to see if it sounds good. Bootleg vinyl records often have poor sound quality.
Here are some additional tips for identifying bootleg vinyl records:
- Beware of low prices. Bootleg vinyl records are often sold at a fraction of the price of official vinyl records. If you see a vinyl record for sale at a suspiciously low price, it is likely a bootleg.
- Be wary of generic packaging. Bootleg vinyl records are often packaged in generic sleeves and jackets. If the record does not have any artwork or labeling, it is likely a bootleg.
- Be wary of counterfeit artwork and logos. Bootleggers may try to make their bootleg vinyl records look more authentic by using counterfeit artwork and logos. However, there are often subtle differences between counterfeit artwork and logos and the real thing. If you are unsure whether or not the artwork or logos on a vinyl record are authentic, it is best to err on the side of caution and not buy it.
If you are unsure whether or not a vinyl record is real, it is best to buy it from a reputable seller. There are many legitimate vinyl record stores and online retailers where you can buy high-quality official vinyl records.
