The Beatles, Rubber Soul * FACTORY SAMPLE * STEREO * NEAR MINT * UK 1st Press *

	£		260
	$		345

The Beatles - Rubber Soul

I am pleased to offer for sale this superb, Factory Sample copy of The Beatles sixth studio album, Rubber Soul.

Considered by many as the Beatles first movement away from their beat band origins, Rubber Soul clearly demonstrates the Beatles growing maturity as song writers and musicians; most notably the inclusion of eastern elements such as the sitar in Norwegian Wood. The album is acknowledged as being pivotal in the development of both psychedelic and progressive rock, and indeed the album as an artform, and cited by many musicians of the time as a key influence in their musical career and outlook. Ranked no. 5 in the Rolling Stones list of the top 500 albums of all time, Rubber Soul is a must-have addition to any record collection.

In addition displaying superb near mint audio, the excellent example on offer in this listing is also an extremely rare 'Factory Sample'. EMI produced 'Factory Sample' records for promotional purposes and were generally sent to a journalist for review. Genuine factory samples can be discerned due to the presence of a sticker on one of the labels which reads: "FACTORY SAMPLE NOT FOR RESALE". Early stickers, such as that seen on this record, are rectangular with triangular ends.
This particular record, along with all others listed for sale in this set of listings, were part of the collection of one of the best known Beatles critics, William Mann. Mann was the music critic for the Times newspaper and was perhaps the first to critically review the Beatles as musicians rather than as a social phenomenon. 

Album Details:

Serial number: PCS 3075

Matrix number: YEX 178 - 2 / YEX 179 - 2

Stamper codes: 2 L / 1 GR

Tax Codes: KT

Vinyl Weight: 165g

The -2 / -2 matrix numbers confirm that the record is a true UK first pressing - there was no -1 / -1 stereo Rubber soul stereo pressing produced. The mother & stamper codes communicate that the record was produced early in the production run. Consequently, the audio reproduction is fantastic. Take a listen yourself below!

The black labels with yellow Parlophone logo and silver text are the first variant as is evident from size of the large "STEREO" aural indicator text (this was smaller in later variants) and the Times New Roman font. 

The original Garrod & Lofthouse front-side laminated flip-back sleeve is the first variant as is evident front the 'loose thread' photograph used for the cover art (John's jacket has a loose thread - see pictures).

The album is complete with the original polythene lined die-cut Emitex 'protect your records' inner sleeve.

Condition Report:

The condition report provided below is given as a guide only. I include high-quality, comprehensive photographs as well as a complete audio recording in my listings to enable you to make an informed decision on the condition of this record yourself.

Disc: EXCELLENT +

Labels: EXCELLENT 

The labels are clean and retain rich, vibrant colours. The Factory Sample sticker shows no damage. A small number of dull spindle trails can be seen to around each centre hole.

Visual: EXCELLENT 

The vinyl retains superb deep gloss playing surfaces to both sides. In bright daylight several light surface marks are visible. None can be felt and I would not describe any as being a scratch. Underneath the glare of a halogen desk lamp barely visible wispy paper hairlines can be seen (usually present due to the record going in and out of the inner sleeve) alongside an iridescent rainbow shine. 

Sound Quality: MINT -

Please note: the eBay app does not facilitate playback. Please use the internet site to enjoy the audio clips.

Side 1:

 

Side 2:

As can be heard in the recordings, this is a copy that has been seldom played on good quality equipment. The lead ins are quiet. During the dead-wax between tracks only the sound of a rotating stylus can be heard. There is great channel separation, the bass is punchy, the vocals are clear. 

Sleeve: EXCELLENT +

The sleeve is in fantastic, as-new condition. Both sides are bright and clean. The laminate to the front side retains the original lustre. The cover art is vibrant. The rear is a brilliant white. The spine is still square with a beautiful crisp edge and the pinched ends are well defined. The top, bottom and opening edges are all without wear. The bottom right hand corner is slightly softened. The other three corners are strong.

Inner Sleeve: EXCELLENT 

The original inner sleeve is in great condition. It is very clean and displays only mild creasing.

 

Additional Details:

Before the audio test, the vinyl was cleaned first by an Okki Nokki vacuum cleaner and then an Audio Desk ultrasonic cleaner.

After cleaning, the vinyl was placed inside a brand new mobile fidelity anti-static inner sleeve.

The vinyl will be packaged outside of the sleeve, both of which are stored inside an archival quality polypropylene outer sleeve.

The record will be sent via an insured courier in a padded vinyl mailer.

 

Please see my other listings for more Beatles Factory Samply rarities.

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