How can you tell if a vinyl record is counterfeit or bootleg?

Question

I'm fairly new to collecting music on vinyl, and I wanted to make sure I wasn't getting inferior counterfeit records. What are the tell-tale signs of a bootleg vinyl record?

One thing I should mention is that I'd like to be able to tell before I buy it. I'm buying a lot of "new" vinyl, from new albums from the last 5 years or so. The tips so far are more useful for after buying it. I might get in trouble for stress testing the records while they're still wrapped. And when buying the albums online, I can't do that.

Answer 1

If albums are new and wrapped, you can check on the sleeve for the catalog number and the Record Company name/logo. You should also look for pictures of the original on the internet as you can find a lot of info on there.

You can also find out where it was made/distributed. These details are never used by bootleggers as they can get into serious legal difficulties if they do use them. Also, look on record companies/bands web sites as they often have pictures and details of any extras like posters or stickers which come with the vinyl. Always keep these safe as they add to the value of the record in years to come.

Always check with a reliable catalog/web site or discography to get the record number. It will be scratch printed on the vinyl, usually near the centre of the record. This is usually the only guaranteed way to check that it's the real deal.

In good bootleg records, the vinyl and label quality can be as good as a regular original vinyl. In fact a lot of older, good quality vinyl bootlegs can be worth as much or more than original vinyl.

When buying from e-bay, look for a seller who has little or no negative feedback as this will tell you how honest and reliable he is. He should also have pictures on his listing so you can do your homework before bidding. You can usually e-mail the seller if you have any queries and they're often prepared to send you additional information and pictures if they have nothing to hide. He will also usually tell you whether something is a bootleg or the real deal as some bootlegs can be worth hundreds. The majority of e-bayers are great people. I've been buying and selling vinyl there for ages and the only problems I've ever had is postage delays which is not the sellers fault. If in douby about a sellers goods, dont buy from them. But you also have channels to go through with eBay/PayPal if you feel you've been cheated by a seller and it's usually possible to get your money back.

If you have an interest in collecting material from a certain era or a certain band, have a look on the web as there are some very nice genuine collectors out there who will happily advise you on the approximate value of vinyl and are prepared to tell you what's real and whats not - and all for free.

Good luck with what's sure to become a great hobby.

Answer 2

This Site Might Help You.

RE:
How can you tell if a vinyl record is counterfeit or bootleg?
I'm fairly new to collecting music on vinyl, and I wanted to make sure I wasn't getting inferior counterfeit records. What are the tell-tale signs of a bootleg vinyl record?

Answer 3

Fake Vinyl Records

Answer 4

You'll be able to tell almost right away. For one thing, the record labels will be alot different. Also, the vinyl used on bootlegs is a lot thicker and has little bend. The regular vinyls are a little thinner and are pretty flexible.

Answer 5

I still have all my vinyl from the 60s,and i too was lucky enough a few years ago to find a music system with a turn table on the top of it,some of the records i can still play,yes it takes you right back to when you bought them, those i cannot play i have got in cd form,but its not the same is it? i can still remember queueing up to buy sgt peppers the day it came out,i had ordered it the week before,the shop gave you a little ticket and then on the day the album was released you could go and buy it,you got first choice,because by the end of the day the shop would have sold out! i played that album all day and night,my father threatened to break it with a sledge hammer if i didn't give it a rest! What we should have done is buy a copy for playing and a copy to keep in mint condition,we could have made a small fortune now! oh the wisdom of hind sight.

Answer 6

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Oh yes I still have all my old records/cassettes/vinyl etc, back from the late 1950s/60s. I also have my stacked hi-fi system so that I can play them all. Every few months I like to have a memory lane afternoon and play all the old records, reminds me of good times, good friends (some no longer with us), and my parents.

Answer 7

The bootlegs break easier.... if u can bend the vinyl a little it is real, if it snaps rite away it is bootleg!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!