Black Sabbath : Tyr A1/B1 1st press

This first pressing plays to a superb standard with only a little interference on a couple of tracks.  This is limited to a couple of intros and during the instrumental that opens S2, a common problem with this album!  However, the vast majority is stunning and indeed much of it grades as Mint such is the clarity and depth on offer here.

The cover has to be the most stunning example I have ever seen and is 'as new' without a doubt.  The lyric inner is also just as good with no wear at all.

EIRSA 1038 // A-1U / B-1U

The audio on S1 is Mint(-) (T1 intro Ex+ / T4 intro VG)

The audio S2 is Mint(-) for the majority / T1 short instrumental VG / T2 Ex)

The cover is Mint-

The labels are Mint-

The lyric inner is Mint

Visual grading

The vinyl still has an impressive glossy sheen and there are no marks or scratches.  There are a number of faint hairlines on each side which is relatively common due to the abrasive nature of the lyric sleeve.  However, this is a classic example of a record playing better than its visual quality and shows that these hairlines are purely superficial.  Don't get me wrong the vinyl is not covered in them and yes they are faint and not immediately obvious.  The run out grooves are very clean and the labels are also in superb shape with no marking or writing and no spindle wear.

Play grading

The intro and first verse on 'Anno Mundi' are of course relatively quiet and yet they play very clearly with only mininmal light static and there are no clicks or pops.  As the volume picks up the audio is so deep and strong and 'as new' is an honest description.  It continues in the same way and the next quieter section is nigh on perfect with no obvious static.  The remainder is stunning, just all encompassing power and the playback is as good as it was over 30 years ago.  The intro is Ex+ but the rest easily grades as Mint- you cannot fault the sonic quality.

'The Law Maker' and 'Jerusalem' both play with imperious quality with no sign of any interference and the power and definition of the audio is immense from start to finish.  No distortion either and Mint is very much deserved here.

The intro on 'The Sabbath Stones' does have a few static 'sweep' type sounds and a couple of ticks but by the time Martin's vocal comes in this has largely disappeared.  It then plays with stunning quality and that includes the quieter verses - no ticks or clicks and the clarity is 'as new'.  The intro is VG but the remainder is very much Mint I am pleased to say.  The end section in particular is superb!

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The instrumental 'The Battle Of Tyr' has on S2 does have some static and a little crackle but this is common on this track I find.  I would grade it as VG overall.

The quiet intro on 'Odin's Court' has only minimal light static and then plays very clearly with very little intrusion.  The odd static sound a couple of ticks that is all.  Ex

'Valhalla' plays with exceptional clarity, power and depth from the first groove to the last.  The playback is strong and I do not think I have ever heard a more impressive version.  This is one that demands to be played loud and then some!  This is Mint in every way I cannot pay it any higher compliment.

The intro on 'Feels Good To Me' is close to perfect with barely any static and the first verse is equally as good.  From then on it plays with stunning precision and with no interference of any kind.  Mint- is a fair reflection of the audio here.

There are a couple of clicks in the dead wax between tracks but 'Heaven In Black' then ends the album in supreme style with genuine quality throughout.  It plays with that familiar depth and power and the only 'background' is a couple of light ticks on the fade out.  A Mint- finish for sure.

The Cover & Lyric Inner

The glossy cover is in beautiful condition and I cannot see any sign of any wear.  The edges, spine, corners and the opening edge are all pristine and the front and back cover have no marking.  'Shop fresh' you could but I will grade as Mint- just to be cautious!

The lyric sleeve is also in fantastic condition and looks untouched.

Play tested on my Pro-Ject Essential III Turntable / B&W 684 Speakers

This record has been cleaned on a Pro-Ject VC-S machine

EIRSA 1038 // A-1U / B-1U

I grade according to "Record Collector" guidelines.

Any questions please feel free to ask

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Postage & Packaging

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