Vinyl records have made a comeback in recent years, with sales increasing steadily for over a decade. One of the things that makes vinyl so appealing is its physicality. There’s something special about holding a record in your hands and dropping it onto the turntable.
But what about the shrink wrap? Should you unwrap your new vinyl records or keep them sealed? There is no right or wrong answer, as it is a matter of personal preference. However, there are a few things to consider when making your decision.
Arguments in Favor of Unwrapping
There are a few reasons why you might want to unwrap your new vinyl records:
- To play them. Obviously, you need to unwrap a record in order to play it. If you’re buying a record to listen to, then it makes sense to unwrap it.
- To inspect it. Unwrapping a record allows you to inspect it for any defects. This is especially important if you’re buying a rare or expensive record.
- To clean it. New records often have dust and debris on them that can affect the sound quality. Unwrapping a record allows you to clean it before playing it.
- To enjoy the artwork. Vinyl record sleeves are often works of art in themselves. Unwrapping a record allows you to appreciate the artwork and read the liner notes.
Arguments in Favor of Keeping Sealed
There are also a few reasons why you might want to keep your new vinyl records sealed:
- To protect them. Shrink wrap can protect your records from dust, dirt, and scratches. This is especially important if you plan on storing your records for a long period of time.
- To increase their value. Sealed records are often worth more than unwrapped records. This is because sealed records are in better condition and more rare.
- To sell them. If you plan on selling your records at some point in the future, it’s generally best to keep them sealed. This will make them more valuable to potential buyers.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to unwrap your new vinyl records is up to you. There is no right or wrong answer. If you’re unsure of what to do, consider the factors listed above and make the decision that’s best for you and your collection.
Here are some additional things to consider when making your decision:
- What type of record collector are you? If you’re a casual collector who buys records to listen to, then you may want to unwrap them. However, if you’re a serious collector who buys records to invest in, then you may want to keep them sealed.
- What kind of records are you buying? If you’re buying new records from a reputable retailer, then you’re less likely to encounter defects. However, if you’re buying used records or records from a less reputable retailer, then you may want to unwrap them to inspect them.
- How are you going to store your records? If you’re storing your records in a clean, dry environment, then they’re less likely to be damaged. However, if you’re storing your records in a humid or dusty environment, then you may want to keep them sealed to protect them.
No matter what you decide, it’s important to take care of your vinyl records. Store them in a cool, dry place and clean them regularly. With proper care, your records can last for many years.
