The Beatles Revolver * 606-1 WITHDRAWN MIX * NEAR MINT! * 1966 UK MONO 1st PRESS

Sold Date: January 29, 2024
Start Date: January 19, 2024
Final Price: £460.00 (GBP)
Bid Count: 24
Seller Feedback: 1515
Buyer Feedback: 369


The Beatles - Revolver


I am pleased to offer for sale this superb UK mono 1st pressing of The Beatles seventh studio album, Revolver.



Album Background:


1966 saw the Beatles complete their last live tour in the US amid the controversy of John's statement that: "the Beatles are more popular than Jesus". With no intention to tour their new material, the Beatles entered the studio in early '66 unbound by the requirement to reproduce the new album on stage. The result was an album that both musically and lyrically pushed the boundaries of contemporary pop music; issuing in the psychedelic era and laying the foundations of progressive rock. 


The UK mono 1st pressing of Revolver, identifiable by the side 2 matrix number: XEX 606 - 1, is particularly sought after for the alternative mix, so-called 'remix 11', of "Tomorrow Never Knows". According to anecdotal evidence, the wrong tape was sent to EMI for mastering. A member of the production team discovered this and contacted the EMI pressing plant to rectify the situation. Although reluctant, they agreed to stop production and remaster the correct mix with the understanding that those records already pressed would be sold. Consequently, a small number of this alternative mix were available for purchase. The record for sale in this listing is one such example.



Album Details:


Serial number: PMC 7009 


Matrix number: XEX 605 - 2 / XEX 606 - 1


Stamper codes: 1 GO / 3 GA


Tax Codes: KT


Vinyl Weight: 165g


The -2 / -1 matrix numbers confirm that the record is a true UK first pressing. The mother and stamper codes suggest that the record was one of the first few thousand produced. Consequently, the audio reproduction is superb -  take a listen yourself below.


The black labels with yellow Parlophone logo and silver text are the first variant as is evident from the misspelling of T4 S2, "Doctor Robert" as "Dr. Robert".


The front side laminated Garrod & Lofthouse sleeve is the first variant as is evident from the small solid 'MONO' aural indicator text printed to the front side, a square spine and flip-backs to the reverse. The first variant sleeves also display the same error as the labels concerning the title of "Doctor Robert".


The album is complete with the original polythene lined die-cut Emitex 'patent pending' 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: MINT -


The labels are clean and retain rich, vibrant colours. There are just a handful of dull spindle trails can be seen around each otherwise unworn centre hole.


Visual: EXCELLENT +


The vinyl retains the original superb deep gloss playing surfaces. In bright daylight light there are several light marks that can be seen to the surface of the vinyl. None can be felt and I would not describe any as a 'scratch'. Under the glare of a halogen desk lamp a number of paper hairlines can be seen 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.  This is clearly a copy that has been played cautiously on good quality equipment. There are no audible intrusions throughout the entire record. The lead ins are quiet, as is the dead-wax between tracks. There is no sign of groove wear distortion or background dust crackle. 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 maintains the original vibrant colouration. The rear is a deep black without sign of discolouration. The flip-backs are without damage. The top, bottom and opening edges are all without wear. The corners are all strong. Very 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 vinyl rarities.

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