The Beatles - Rubber Soul

I am pleased to offer for sale this superb UK second pressing of The Beatles sixth studio album, Rubber Soul.

Useful Information:

The first mono pressing of Rubber Soul, identifiable by the -1 / -1 matrix numbers, was short lived as members of the production team deemed that the audio was 'loud'. As such, it is known as the 'loud cut'. Although not as collectible, the audio reproduction offered by the -4 / -4 second pressing is far superior. As with all Beatles records, there remains lively debate concerning which pressing is the pressing to have, but having owned most of them my tidy -4 / -4 copy is still the one I turn to when I want to listen to the album. The audio offered by this copy is as good as any I have heard and would be a great addition to any collection. A recording of the full album audio is available below, so you can judge for yourself!

In addition to being in fantastic near mint condition, this particular copy is extremely rare in that it was pressed using the old EMI pressing machine as is evident from the MT tax code and indentation ring approximately 1cm from the edge of the side 1 label. Only three Beatles records are known to have been pressed using the older machine, A Hard Days Night, Rubber Soul, and Revolver, examples of which are particularly difficult to come by. 

Album Details:

Serial number: PMC 1267

Matrix number: XEX 579 - 4 / XEX 580 - 4

Stamper codes: 11 RTP / 14 AAM

Tax Codes: MT

Vinyl Weight: 165g

The -4 / -4 matrix numbers confirm that the record is a true UK second pressing - there was no -2 or -3 mono aural Rubber soul pressings produced. 

The black labels with yellow Parlophone logo and silver text are the first variant as is evident from the Times New Roman font. 

The original Garrod & Lofthouse front-side laminated flip-back sleeve is the first variant as is evident front the 'loose thread' photograph used for the cover art (John's jacket has a loose thread - see pictures).

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: MINT -

Labels: EXCELLENT +

The labels are clean and retain rich, vibrant colours. Only small number of dull spindle trails can be seen to around each centre hole.

Visual: MINT -

The vinyl retains superb deep gloss playing surfaces to both sides which in bright daylight appear blemish free. Underneath the glare of a halogen desk lamp barely visible wispy paper hairlines can be seen (usually present due to the record going in and out of the inner sleeve) alongside an iridescent rainbow shine. 

Sound Quality: MINT -

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, the audio is fantastic. The lead ins are quiet, as is the dead-wax between tracks. During playback there is no sign of groove wear distortion or background noise. The bass is punchy, the vocals are clear. A truly superb listening experience.

Sleeve: MINT -

The sleeve is in fantastic 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 still a brilliant white. The top, bottom and opening edges are all without wear. The corners are all strong. Difficult to improve upon.

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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