Vinyl Vault: The Record Collector Chronicle
An authoritative exploration of music collecting and the definitive guide to rare vinyl, delving into the history and resources of Record Collector magazine.
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About Record Collector
The Premier Music Publication
Record Collector is a distinguished British monthly music magazine dedicated to the realm of rare and collectible records, alongside the artists who created them. Established in September 1979, it has cultivated a global distribution network and is recognized as a leading authority in its niche.
A Legacy of Expertise
The magazine proudly asserts its position as the UK's longest-running music magazine, underscoring its enduring presence and influence in the industry. Its content is meticulously curated to serve enthusiasts and collectors worldwide.
Editorial Hub
Based in London, the magazine is currently helmed by Editor Paul Lester. It is published by Diamond Publishing, a company with a diverse portfolio in business and consumer media.
Historical Trajectory
Genesis and Evolution
The origins of Record Collector trace back to music journalist Sean O'Mahony, who previously published The Beatles Book. The significant interest shown in the small advertisements within his Beatles appreciation magazine, particularly for records and memorabilia beyond The Beatles, inspired O'Mahony to launch Record Collector in September 1979. Initially a smaller publication, it evolved significantly over the years.
Transformation and Growth
By March 1980, with its 7th issue, Record Collector became a glossy A5 publication. The addition of Peter Doggett to the editorial team in 1980 marked a pivotal moment, helping the magazine establish its distinct identity over his nearly two-decade tenure. A significant milestone was reached in 2003 when the magazine transitioned to a full-colour format, celebrating this with a special psychedelic issue and increasing its print run to 13 issues annually.
Content Focus
Rare and Collectable Records
The core of Record Collector's content revolves around identifying, detailing, and valuing rare and collectable records. It serves as an essential resource for enthusiasts seeking information on unique pressings, limited editions, and historically significant releases across various music genres.
Artist Spotlights
Beyond the records themselves, the magazine delves into the stories behind the music, featuring in-depth articles and interviews with the artists and bands who created these collectable works. This provides valuable context and narrative depth for readers.
Valuable Resources
The 100 Greatest Series
Since 2005, Record Collector has published a series of books that meticulously list the top 100 most collectible records within specific music genres. Each volume is authored by a specialist in the field, offering detailed investigations into each record's significance, accompanied by relevant images of the records and labels.
The Rare Record Price Guide
The Rare Record Price Guide (RRPG) is an indispensable tool for collectors and dealers. It provides comprehensive listings of artists and their collectable releases, including various formats like vinyl singles, LPs, cassettes, and CDs, primarily focusing on music from the 1950s onwards.
Digital Archive
RRPG Online
The Rare Record Price Guide has transitioned online, offering a dynamic database with the latest updates, currency conversion tools, expanded photo galleries, and user submission capabilities. This digital platform allows collectors to manage their collections privately and receive valuations.
Important Clarification
Distinguishing Publications
It is important to note the existence of a separate, unrelated publication titled The Record Collector. This journal, first published in 1946, focuses specifically on recordings of historical opera singers, distinguishing it clearly from the contemporary music focus of the Record Collector magazine discussed here.
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References
References
- "Welcome to the home page...", The Record Collector. Retrieved 14 June 2025
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Disclaimer
Educational Context and Limitations
This content has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence for educational and informational purposes. It is based on data available from public sources, including Wikipedia, and may not represent the most current or complete information available.
This is not financial advice. While Record Collector magazine and its associated price guides provide valuations for collectable records, this website does not offer investment advice. The value of collectable items can fluctuate significantly. Always conduct thorough research and consult with experts before making any purchasing decisions.
The creators of this page are not affiliated with Record Collector magazine or Diamond Publishing and are not responsible for any errors, omissions, or actions taken based on the information presented herein.