The Beatles - With The Beatles

I am pleased to offer for sale this superb UK stereo 1st pressing of The Beatles second studio album, With The Beatles.

In addition to this particular record being in archival condition, it comes with the extremely rare front-side laminated mid-size stereo sleeve that was only available for a very short period at the start on 1964. As part of EMI's experiments in sleeve design they produced this sleeve before reverting to the much more common 'large size' variant. It is the 'holy grail' collectors item of the second album; finding one at all is difficult - only three have been sold all year - finding a copy in superb mint- condition, such as that being sold in this auction, is virtually impossible.

Album Details:

Serial number: PCS 3045

Matrix number: YEX 110 - 2 / YEX 111 - 2

Stamper codes: 1 O / 1 GD

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 With The Beatles stereo records produced. The mother & stamper codes communicate that the record was one of the first 1000 or so produced. Consequently, the audio reproduction is fantastic. Take a listen yourself below!

The labels are the third variant as is evident from the absence of any mistakes on the side 2 label. Earlier variants were found with "Jobete" publishers credit for T7 S2, "Money" (which should be Dominion. Belinda); and the incorrect spelling of 'Got A' on T3 S2, "You Really Gotta Hold On Me".

This Garrod & Lofthouse produced front-side laminated sleeve is the second variant as is evident from the mid-sized solid 'STEREO' aural indicator text printed to the front side and the incorrect spelling of 'Got A' on T3 S2, "You Really Gotta Hold On Me" on the track-list to the reverse.

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 retain rich, vibrant colours. The sticker shows no damage. A small number of dull spindle trails can be seen around each unworn centre hole.

Visual: EXCELLENT +

The vinyl retains superb deep gloss playing surfaces to both sides. In bright daylight two light marks can be seen to the surface of side 2. Neither can be felt and I would certainly not describe them as scratches. Underneath the glare of a halogen desk lamp a number of barely visible wispy paper hairlines (usually present due to the record going in and out of the inner sleeve) can be seen alongside an iridescent rainbow shine. 

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 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. A truly superb listening experience - you won't need to look for another copy. 

Sleeve: MINT - 

The sleeve is in fantastic, nearly-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 brilliant white with only minor spots of discolouration. The spine is still square with a beautiful crisp edge. The top, bottom and opening edges are all 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 vinyl rarities.

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