Deep Purple - Shades of Deep Purple.

I am pleased to offer for sale this superb Factory Sample UK 1st pressing of Deep Purples debut album, Shades of Deep Purple.

As well as being a beautiful final upgrade example, the record 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.

Album Details:

Serial number: PCS 7055

Matrix number: YEX 689 - 1 / YEX 690 - 1

Stamper codes: 1 A / 1 H

Vinyl Weight: 165g

The -1/-1 matrix numbers confirm that the record is a true UK first pressing. The mother & stamper codes communicate that the record was one of the first few thousand produced. Consequently, the audio reproduction is fantastic. Take a listen yourself below!

The black and yellow Parlophone labels are the first variant as is evident from the "Sold in U.K. ..." text present to both sides.

This copy comes with a front and rear laminated Garrod & Lofthouse gatefold sleeve with "File Under: Popular Pop groups" printed to the right hand side of the upper flip-back.

The album is complete with the original EMI advertising 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: MINT -

The labels are clean and retain rich, vibrant colours. The sticker shows no damage. No spindle wear is evident to either center hole.

Visual: EXCELLENT +

Both playing surfaces retain the superb original deep gloss shine and in bright daylight appear blemish free. Under the glare of a halogen desk lamp a few barely visible wispy marks are seen alongside an iridescent rainbow sheen. 

Sound Quality: EXCELLENT

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 played cautiously on good quality equipment. The lead ins are quiet. There is no noise in between tracks. Other than seven pops on T1S2, "Mandrake Root" the audio is absolutely flawless. A truly superb listening experience which you would be extremely hard pressed to improve upon. 

Sleeve: EXCELLENT 

The sleeve is in fantastic condition. All four sides are bright and clean. The laminate to the front retains the original lustre. The cover art is vibrant. The rear is without rubbing or fading. The top right hand corner has a subtle bump.  The top and bottom edges are without wear.

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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