SS: Still Sealed
Label: Virgin
Catalog Number: VS 2001
Product Condition: N/ New

This auction is for a STILL SEALED single LP from the Classic Records 180gram reissue of Mike Oldfield's "Tubular Bells". This pressing has special significance and collectability because it comes from the Michael Hobson PLAY ARCHIVES. This is a truly one of a kind collectible of one of the most valuable and highly sought after Classic Records pressings.

Michael Hobson "MH Play Copy" Archives

From the start of Classic Records in 1994, Michael Hobson, insisted on having as complete a "personal archive" as possible, of all varieties and issues of Classic Records' various releases (180g, 200g, Blue Vinyl, etc)  as a reference of what had been done.  This Archive was one of the few things Acoustic Sounds did not acquire as part of the deal to buy Classic in 2010 albeit Chad Kassem has pursued Hobson to buy it ever since.   In addition to the "MH Personal Archive", Hobson retained multiple copies of each release as “Play Copies” for demonstration and personal enjoyment in his dedicated home listening room.  Twenty Six years later it became clear to Classic Records founder that he did not need all the extra sealed “Play Copies” in addition to the full archive he also retained.  Still intact, Hobson’s “MH Play Copy” archive will be offered exclusively on themusic24 and Testpressings eBay accounts  by special arrangement with Michael Hobson.

Each piece has an official Classic Records  Archive Sticker on it, personally hand initialed by “MH”,  to assure authenticity and enhance the collectibility over time.  Generally,  less than 4  “MH Play Copies”, most often from the first stamper, will be made available.  In the case of 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 copies 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 in machines among     the various pressings.  These “MH Play Copy” records have not been moved from Hobson’s own climate controlled personal home Library for all these years. 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 production pressings  (Hobson’s Choice!) of Classic's various issues over time. These copies are likely to become ridiculously collectible and likely a better investment than anything save BitCoin!  

Thank you for visiting our eBay shop!

Make sure you subscribe to our eBay store themusic24 to get updates on our NEW listings each week.

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!