Big Star, #1 Record LP Test Pressing From Classic Records Archives

$

114

SS: Still Sealed
Label: Ardent
Catalog Number: ADS 2803
Jacket Condition: M/ Mint

This auction is for a STILL SEALED, NUMBERED (1 of 1 ARCHIVE) single LP, BSCR* Test Pressing marked A/B of the Classic Records 150gram reissue of Big Star's "#1 Record". This pressing has special significance and collectability because it comes from the Classic Records’ ARCHIVES. This is a truly one of a kind collectible of one of the most valuable and highly sought after Classic Records pressings.

These highly collectible test pressings are from the first stamper and approximately 20 to 40 copies are produced depending on the title. Test pressings reflect the closest you can get to the lacquers and hence have a special collectible value and store of value.

From the start of Classic Records in 1994, Michael Hobson, insisted on having as complete an archive as possible of all varieties and issues of Classic Records' various releases (180g, 200g, Blue Vinyl, test pressings and memorabilia from the Classic Records years as a reference of what had been done.  The Archive was one of the few things Acoustic Sounds did not acquire as part of the deal to buy Classic in 2010.  Still intact, in its entirety (with only a few holes) sits the Archive which will be offered exclusively on this shop by special arrangement with Michael Hobson.  Each piece comes with an official Classic Records Archive Sticker.  Generally, only two archive copies, most often from the first stamper, were added to the archive.  In the case of test pressings, with popular titles, there are various versions because of the use of different plants (RTI, Bill Smith, Classic Pressing Plant) which offers the possibility to have comparisons of various machines the TP's were made on - all of which sound different because of various vibrations from the different machines that are "pressed" into the vinyl.  Yes, according to Hobson, you can hear the difference is machines among the various Test Pressings and production pressings for that matter.  Further, Hobson maintains a personal archive of 5 copies of each release which we are trying to convince him to allow us to offer as well! This is not only a unique opportunity to own a piece of Classic Record's history but also the chance to have some of the best pressings (close if not the equal of Test Pressings) of Classic's various issues over time.
*Bill Smith Custom Records Pressings Background (El Segundo, CA)
In 2005, the major labels got back into the vinyl business putting pressure on the worldwide pressing capacity - including at RTI, which took on a huge "Doors" box set project requiring the dedicated Classic 200g press to be converted back to 180g for a four month period. Seeing that this would disrupt Classic's business and release schedule dramatically, Classic enlisted Kevin Smith at Bill Smith Custom Records (BSCR) to team again with Record Products of America (RPA) to develop 200g groove guard dies to be used on two Finebuilt semi-automatic presses at BSCR. The effort worked and Classic pressed exclusively at BSCR over the period from 2006 - mid 2008. Jacket in mint condition.

Good luck!

------------
Thank you for visiting our eBay shop...

Refund Policy
Photos are for actual item up for auction. No returns or exchanges on all items. Items are sold "as is" and cannot be guaranteed against defects of any kind once opened. If an item is not as described, an exchange can be granted for the correct item. We are not responsible for buyer's remorse. Once you have placed your bid, you must complete the transaction per eBay's policy. Please pose any pertinent questions regarding your item of interest prior to placing your bid.

We strive to describe our items with the highest level of accuracy. If any issues arise, we will be happy to work with you to insure customer satisfaction. Please contact us first to try to seek a resolution before escalating the matter.

When available, jackets are provided gratas and as such are not described as part of the listing/auction. Jackets are included in "as is" condition. No exchanges or returns on complimentary jackets.

Packaging
We use thick cardboard boxes specially designed for LPs and bubble wrap all around to ensure records are well protected during shipping.  We are not responsible for any damages that occur during shipping. 

Payments & Shipping
State tax will be charged to California residents. These costs will be included in your final invoice for payment.

Payment must be completed within 7 days of purchase or auction win. Items will ship within 2-3 business days of receiving cleared payment.

We ship worldwide.

Shipping costs will be calculated after the winning bid is submitted to ensure that costs are accurate depending upon resident's address, the item's weight and type of shipping service.

Combined shipping is available.
Multiple purchases can be consolidated into one shipment. Items must be paid together in a single transaction for the combined rate to apply. Please request an invoice at the end of the auction, so that we may provide you with the discounted shipping rate.

Shipping Services

-Domestic Flat Rate: Applies to 1-2 LPs only (<2 lbs). Please add $2 for each additional LP. This rate does not apply to special items such as box sets containing 2LPs or more. Please wait for us to send you an invoice for accurate shipping costs after auction ends.
USPS Media Mail - $4.00 (2-9 business days/ Includes Delivery Confirmation)
UPS Ground - $12.00 (1-5 business days/ Includes Tracking Number)

-International: Please refer to the shipping calculator for approximate international shipping rates.
USPS Priority Mail (6-10 business days/ Includes Tracking Number + Insurance)
USPS Express Mail (3-5 business days/ Includes Tracking Number + Insurance)

DHL Worldwide Express Mail (1-2 business days/ Includes Tracking Number + Insurance) >> We recommend this service. It's quick, reliable and often less expensive than USPS Priority Mail. Please request an invoice from us to provide you with this service.

Note for International Buyers
For customs purposes, all items will be declared at closing auction price. Duties and taxes are the responsibility of the buyer. We do not reduce the value on customs forms as it is against eBay policy and is considered customs fraud. Custom delays could be expected on high priced items.
 
Customer Service
We appreciate our customers. If you have questions regarding any of our items, please feel free to contact us. Questions are generally answered within 2 business days. We are closed on major holidays and weekends.

We strive to describe our items with the highest level of accuracy. If any issues arise, we will be happy to work with you to insure customer satisfaction. Please contact us first to try to seek a resolution before escalating the matter.

We appreciate 5 star feedback and will do our best to work with you to earn it. Those who leave positive feedback will receive it in return.

Happy shopping!