Vasa Prihoda/ Franco Novello Bach : Partitas Cetra 10"

	£		318
	$		421

ARTISTE, RECORD TITLE  AND LABEL

BACKGROUND :

I used to be wary of putting up Classical LPs when I first started as I have been a collector for many years and am aware that not only can LPs sound different on different systems but also that with classical LPs, the buyer is even more particular to surface noise levels. I tried putting up several in March 2008 only after making 2 changes ie using the  US made Walker Audio 3 step cleaning process on a Loricraft PRC4 (having replaced it from an already excellent Clearaudio Matrix machine. The feedback generally was good (its on the end of the second  page and runs into the third page on my feedback reports). Without sounding immodest, I must add that an LP which I sold for 1020 pounds was not only featured in Record Collector mag (May issue) but it was pointed out that I stood out for the detail in explaining the cleaning methods I use. Anyway, I have a return policy so buyers can take confidence in that.

GRADING RESULTS:

I would rate the cover, which is a gatefold, as Excellent.  There are no tears, writings etc  on the cover which is laminated on both sides. There is a  sticker on the top right hand corner with the words "Double Concerto " as well as a printed name above it.

The vinyl looks Excellent  on visual inspection and had a couple of faint surface scratches visible only  viewed under light. There are a couple of spindle marks on all sides Tracking at 1.7g on my Naim Aro arm and Lyra Helikon SL cartridge (as well as a Linn Troika), the playing on all sides was generally a strong VG++. There are some  some soft clicks  but these were not intrusive and did not affect the listening pleasure. There was no skips etc and no distortion of the music.

How I Clean and  Grade my Records

Cleaning: Cleaning is usually done on a Loricraft PRC 4 cleaning machine and/or VPI 17.5 using the US made Walker Audio stage cleaning solution.

Playback Equipment: Playback is through a Linn LP12 turntable/Armeggedon/Naim Aro tonearm/ Linn Troika cartridge and through a brace of active Naim 250s/135s into Naim DBL speakers. For 45s I use a second Linn/Lingo/Aro/Lyra Helikon SL.

I use both Goldmine and Rare Record Price Guide grading system as a guide and came up with the following:

·       Mint  I only use this for sealed items. The record is virtually unplayed and is in a brand new condition. Cover is pristine. Up till now, I have never used this grading and, chances are, never will, due to my conservative nature in matters of record grading.

·       Near Mint  Very little or negligible flaws. Faint lines or very faint creasing  on laminated covers visible under a strong light is acceptable but nothing serious. Records which show some signs of having been played such as very faint spindle marks are allowed but there should be no lessening in sound quality. .

·       Excellent   Item obviously played, though not often,and enjoyed with some slight noise. The record should be nice and shiny but may have a few light marks which should not intrude on play. Slight wear on cover is acceptable. 

·         Very Good Many more imperfections which are noticeable but not obtrusive. The record has been played several times but there should be no major deterioration in sound quality despite some noticeable surface marks and light scratches. Normal wear and tear or writings on the cover  is acceptable but there should not be any major tears.

I do not offer any records below Very Good  unless its extremely rare. 

Shipping costs

I use brand new custom made  plastic sleeves  for both the vinyl and for the sleeve. Shipping is always by Airmail and by registered post as it allows one to track items in case of delays. One buyer has even likened my packing as “ Fort Knox”! Shipping costs in pounds are:

UK/US/Europe 7.5

Japan, Korea, Taiwan, China Hongkong 6.50

 I will  inform buyers of the registration details through Email on posting.

Forms of payment that I accept include:

·       PAYPAL (preferred choice) 

·       International Money Orders