Collecting Elvis vinyl records on a budget: A beginner's guide

This time, I share my experience of starting to build a collection of Elvis vinyl without breaking the bank! My approach is to track down affordable, as close to original, pressings as possible just to own, but I've also been picking up reasonably-priced new pressings as 'playing' copies.
This site is an invaluable guide to what albums were released in the UK and when:
www.elvisukvinyl.co.uk/lp-s
If you're ever in the neighbourhood, here's a link to the secondhand record store at Baytree Garden Centre in Spalding, Lincolnshire. Well worth a visit:
www.uptownvinylrecords.co.uk/

Пікірлер: 51

  • @SuperAtlantis1
    @SuperAtlantis12 ай бұрын

    I think it's good to hear your opinion. I've been collecting Elvis for 45 years and I don't pretend to know everything so I listen to anyone. You never know what ideas others can share. I love your collection. You have many items that I don't have. Greetings from USA.

  • @sincerelyelvispresley

    @sincerelyelvispresley

    2 ай бұрын

    Thanks so much, I wasn't sure about doing this one, as there are so many knowledgeable fans out there with huge vinyl collections, but I thought it might be worth trying to give a slightly different take on it

  • @Patracat
    @Patracat2 ай бұрын

    Yes there are a lot of experts on Elvis vinyls, but like many of us fans, I can't justify the expense of collecting everything, and don't have the space to store everything, so I think your video is very relevant. From 6 Elvis LPs a year ago, I now have nearly 100. I've succumbed to the temptation of buying vinyls on the strength of the covers and outtakes, despite vowing not to get sucked into all the extras that are becoming available almost on a daily basis. But I draw the line at collecting the same LP with a dozen different covers let alone different labels and coloured vinyl! So many tracks are already repeated over and over again on multiple LP releases - FTD, MRS, RCA, Camden, Pickwick, not to mention the labels you mentioned which as you stated are native to the UK, as I'd never heard of them. We have a few releases unique to Australia, and I have some of those, but I'm not fussed if I don't get every single one of them! I was lucky to inherit a collection of 1960's Aussie original pressings from a girlfriend who died a few years ago. Since then, I've found many in antique markets and record fairs, and of course Ebay. Yes the cost of mailing LPs is prohibitive, especially overseas to and from Australia, but it isn't too bad within our borders. I have bought a couple of LPs via Discogs, and not been disappointed. Well packaged, and arrived in perfect condition. As for the sound quality, I have four record players. The first one I got from my parents for my 16th birthday in 1964. I have kept it because it is the only one that plays 78s. Not that I have any Elvis 78s but I do have other artists. Then I have a Pioneer record/cassette player that my husband Ken inherited from his Dad when he upgraded his hi fi system in the 80's, and we were happy to take the Pioneer as it was the top of the range model in its day, and served us well for many years while we couldn't afford anything else. Ken eventually built up a surround sound system with 27 speakers (including 2 sub woofers) in our lounge room, mostly for the tv, but music sounded good too. We could only play CDs though, so eventually Ken bought a turntable to go with the system but when he became ill he never got around to installing the turntable so it is still in the original box. When I started buying more records a couple of years ago, none of my record players were set up to use, so I bought a cheap player for about A$40, just to play my records, but one of Ken's mates objected, saying why put up with that when you've got much better equipment? So he set up the Pioneer with new speakers and I am very happy with that, even though I know it would be heaps better with the Kenwood turntable hooked up to the 27 speakers!!

  • @sincerelyelvispresley

    @sincerelyelvispresley

    2 ай бұрын

    Thanks for sharing Gina. I can definitely see how vinyl collecting can become a bit of a rabbit hole that you can fall into without intending to. The sound quality issue is an interesting one. I recorded that video around 4 weeks ago and I quickly began to realise that listening to an analogue signal over compressed bluetooth wasn't particularly good at all - the top end of everything all sounded what I can best describe as 'splashy'. So the upshot is I've already had to upgrade the record deck and rearrange the room for the umpteenth time to squeeze a pair of speakers in! I'm not too sure where most of the grey market record labels are based, but they aren't from the UK. I had heard the Waxtime label is Spanish, but I don't know if that's correct.

  • @thomasmurray9249

    @thomasmurray9249

    Ай бұрын

    I've made a vow to limit myself numerous times and I still get sucked in almost every time. I admit there isn't really logical reason to own much of what is in my collection, I fully acknowledge it, but I just enjoy it for some reason. I guess as long as I'm spending what is truly disposable income, it's OK.

  • @sincerelyelvispresley

    @sincerelyelvispresley

    Ай бұрын

    @thomasmurray9249 Hi Thomas, the fact that you enjoy it is definitely all that really counts. I have an additional upload going live at 2pm GMT today which illustrates just how hooked I've become!

  • @user-kr8lp9nj4z
    @user-kr8lp9nj4z2 ай бұрын

    Great video! Like you the Camdens were the first record I could buy. Also got almost all the albums on orange and green international label from the 80’s.TCB from Holland ⚡️

  • @sincerelyelvispresley

    @sincerelyelvispresley

    2 ай бұрын

    Gotta love those Camdens 👍🏻

  • @thomasmurray9249
    @thomasmurray9249Ай бұрын

    I just came across your channel for the first time and enjoyed the video. I've collected A LOT of Elvis records but you are 100% correct, a nice collection can be built for a reasonable amount of money. My problem is I've ended up going down just about every rabbit hole there is, despite promising myself I wouldn't, LOL. There's no logic to it but I DO enjoy it and l guess that's what matters. One thing I have resisted is chasing down the absolute best copies of the older issues, they're generally more money than I can justify for my needs. Looking forward to future videos.

  • @sincerelyelvispresley

    @sincerelyelvispresley

    Ай бұрын

    Hi Thomas, thanks for tuning in! I know exactly what you mean about going down rabbit holes, in fact the timing of your comment couldn't be more perfect, as I have an additional upload going live at 2pm GMT today, showing just how hooked I've become in such a short space of time 🙂

  • @tcbsince73
    @tcbsince732 ай бұрын

    Good subject. You can get copies of each of the original albums for a reasonable amount of money. A good way for a new collector to get started. Music on Vinyl is very good, I am trying to get them all. TCB

  • @sincerelyelvispresley

    @sincerelyelvispresley

    2 ай бұрын

    Hi Steve, have you managed to pick up most of your originals at keen prices? Agree about the Music On Vinyls, they're really nicely put together. I recorded this vid around 4 weeks ago and since then I've already picked up several of their releases. I'm looking out for From Elvis In Memphis and Elvis Now on yellow. They certainly don't come cheap though and it goes to show that you can start out with the best of intentions to keep things on a budget level, but it can easily spiral. I've already had to invest in a better deck because bluetooth was, frankly, a bit crap 🤣 TCB

  • @tcbsince73

    @tcbsince73

    2 ай бұрын

    @@sincerelyelvispresley When I was in my early 20s I had a very well-paid job, so I trawled the fairs and record stores and did very well. By my count there have been at least 38 MOVs and I have 25 so far. Picked up the yellow From Elvis in Memphis last month for £90. Not found the Now for sale yet.

  • @marklacam9748
    @marklacam97482 ай бұрын

    Yer I've got a couple of dol and waxtimes myself and i am more than happy with them but i do love the original copy albums. What these albums have cost me over the years i dred to think , but then again I've got a collection that I'm so proud of. Luv the show.

  • @sincerelyelvispresley

    @sincerelyelvispresley

    2 ай бұрын

    As long as you love your collection and get enjoyment out of it, I find it best not to think about the cost 🤣 I'm fairly certain that if I'm out and about and see a nice expensive album, I'll probably end up getting it, despite my best intentions!

  • @Patracat
    @Patracat2 ай бұрын

    Great video Sean, right down my alley. Just about to head out for the morning, but will be back later as I would like to comment in depth on this topic❤

  • @sincerelyelvispresley

    @sincerelyelvispresley

    2 ай бұрын

    Hey Gina, pleased you liked it 🙂 look forward to hearing your thoughts ♥️

  • @FrankieLovesElvis
    @FrankieLovesElvis2 ай бұрын

    Very cool video. I can honestly say that I now have close to 200 STILL SEALED Elvis Presley LP’s. Now, of course, I also have dozens upon dozens of all his original albums, 45rpm singles, EP’s, CD’s, 8 tracks and cassette originals and re-issues, what have you. 😊 By the way, new subscriber. Love it. 😊

  • @sincerelyelvispresley

    @sincerelyelvispresley

    2 ай бұрын

    200 still sealed? WOW! I've just turned a shade of green 🤣 glad to hear you're enjoying the channel and thanks for subscribing, very much appreciated! 👍🏻

  • @SteveOSpielberg
    @SteveOSpielbergАй бұрын

    I grew up in the 1970ies in Ireland and my parents would get the Elvis Camden lps in Woolworths. I love the new 180gms. I have not got a FTD yet they seem better value on CD. I also enjoy the Elvis Legacy editions on cd. A great video.

  • @sincerelyelvispresley

    @sincerelyelvispresley

    Ай бұрын

    Thanks so much! Yeah, there's nothing quite like a Camden to bring back those memories is there? Completely agree that you get way more bang for your buck with the FTD CDs 👍🏻

  • @paulshilton3520
    @paulshilton3520Ай бұрын

    Hi mate just found your channel love looking at the books which I'll never own 😪 appreciate it and best wishes from Brisbane 👍👍⚡⚡⚡

  • @sincerelyelvispresley

    @sincerelyelvispresley

    Ай бұрын

    Hi Paul, really chuffed to know you enjoy the content, thank you 👍🏻

  • @GlenPage
    @GlenPageАй бұрын

    Seems like the UK covers have a lot more shine than the USA covers. That is good! I have mostly re issues. Because I am only 57. I love your channel.

  • @sincerelyelvispresley

    @sincerelyelvispresley

    Ай бұрын

    Hey Glen, I'm 57 too! (58 next month 🙂) so glad you like the channel 👍🏻 yes, I really like the shiny laminate on the original UK covers, but the downside is that they're way more flimsy than the US ones

  • @user-dc1dw2np1w
    @user-dc1dw2np1w2 ай бұрын

    Very good point at 14:00...records that survived 30,40 ,50 years in mint or ex conditions, go wrapped up because horrible packaging

  • @sincerelyelvispresley

    @sincerelyelvispresley

    2 ай бұрын

    So annoying, isn't it? I don't understand why people can't take a little more care when packing

  • @user-dc1dw2np1w

    @user-dc1dw2np1w

    2 ай бұрын

    @@sincerelyelvispresley exactly my friend, i ordered some rezlly rare records anc szdlh because stupidity of the seller the record arrived damaged , picture sleeve totally wrapped up , and instead of saying sorry he insisted that hes packaging is very good , im in this over 30 years, i know what is a professional packaging....an original from 1968 supposed to arrived in M- or EX + , arrived : Poor

  • @sincerelyelvispresley

    @sincerelyelvispresley

    2 ай бұрын

    @user-dc1dw2np1w absolutely gutting!

  • @markfrommanchester8204
    @markfrommanchester82042 ай бұрын

    Hi Sean or is it shawn Lol Just to say great to see your new Elvis channel The out put is first class keep it up I personally have all the rca original/rereleases from 56 to 77 And also every release since 77 to date on rca labels I would recommend the uk vinyl book sets they are the bible of uk Elvis releases On vinyl and cds As you mentioned collecting Elvis records can be expensive But as you said Dol , waxtime are great for the new fan but releases are limited You can get the rest of his releases on rca ints green label and rca nl label which are from 1982 and 1984 Plus a few after Keep up the good work M

  • @sincerelyelvispresley

    @sincerelyelvispresley

    2 ай бұрын

    Thanks Mark, so glad you like the channel 🙂 its most definitely Sean, as Mr Connery and Mr Bond were huge at the time I was conceived 🤣 I have most of the UK discographies and the excellent ones by Paul Alner. I suspect my vinyl collecting will probably expand out now that I've started down the slippery path, but I thought I'd try and give a slightly different spin on the subject

  • @markfrommanchester8204

    @markfrommanchester8204

    2 ай бұрын

    Hi Sean it was a great show no one I know off has Done a program on Dol.or wax time records keep them coming M

  • @sincerelyelvispresley

    @sincerelyelvispresley

    2 ай бұрын

    @@markfrommanchester8204 cheers Mark 👍🏻

  • @nigelwilson1957
    @nigelwilson19572 ай бұрын

    collection. Elvis music good fun Sean, like you say it can be to much money Elvis music good have in collection look back at it keep up cool video my friend

  • @sincerelyelvispresley

    @sincerelyelvispresley

    2 ай бұрын

    Thanks Nigel, glad you enjoyed 🙂

  • @nigelwilson1957

    @nigelwilson1957

    2 ай бұрын

    Sean keep up cool video my friend

  • @Pluralofvinylisvinyls
    @PluralofvinylisvinylsАй бұрын

    I found two Elvis Sun 78s and a 45 at a Miami garage sale a couple years ago. They were in a pile of records I bought for $10. It was the craziest thing. I ended up selling them and I regret it now.

  • @sincerelyelvispresley

    @sincerelyelvispresley

    Ай бұрын

    Wow, what an amazing find! We all pass things on at some point though, and then end up wishing we hadn't! Always seems like a good idea at the time!

  • @andrewhaddon4327
    @andrewhaddon4327Ай бұрын

    Some of the Camdens have been re-issued on c.d probably from a 'grey' European market.I have vol 1-2 box set that were initially released during the '70's.

  • @sincerelyelvispresley

    @sincerelyelvispresley

    Ай бұрын

    Yeah I've got Separate Ways on CD. That's a legit one from the US 👍🏻

  • @alexandernijeboer8385
    @alexandernijeboer8385Ай бұрын

    Great video, thanks again. Just recently discovered your channel and although I am a seasoned collector (over 600 records) I love your no-nonsens approach. Personally, to newbies I would not recommend the so called "grey market" releases as I tend to find them generally overpriced and I have encountered quite a few with serious quality issues in terms of sound quality (analog productions of digital audio rips) and/ or production issues: the quality of some modern plants/ labels still leave a lot to be desired (wrapped records, off center pressings, scuffs and dirt on brand new records). Anyway, anyone looking for bargains should check out the green labeled RCA International pressings from the '80s (with catalog number INTS). For the UK market these were mastered by audio engineers such as 'Big Pete' Norman, Mike Walker and Boppin' Bob Jones and offer a sound experience that in my opinion is unmatched (on vinyl). And these releases are very overlooked and therefor cheap on a platform such as Discogs. I have played quite a few records over the years but I only recently discovered the affordable quality of these RCA International releases.

  • @sincerelyelvispresley

    @sincerelyelvispresley

    Ай бұрын

    Thank you. I had a fair few of those International presses first time around, as they were affordable at the time too!

  • @haraldtrittner4396
    @haraldtrittner43962 ай бұрын

    Thank you Sean, imo the overpriced new Vinyl Labels (Wax Time, Doll etc. etc. you can name it) uses the BMG/Sony DIGITAL Remastering Elvis Songs as available since decades on zillion official BMG/Sony CD Releases worldwide. The real analogue Sound, is available on the Original Album Editions or the Re-pressed RCA Vinyl Albums up to the early/mid 1980's (unfortunately the later 1954-1958 "horrible" Electronically Reprocessed Stereo Sound Mastering too, but this was also a very big part on Elvis' RCA Vinyl Album History Releases since the early 1960's 😉) Greetings from Austria🇦🇹

  • @sincerelyelvispresley

    @sincerelyelvispresley

    2 ай бұрын

    Greetings! Oh for sure there are limitations to the grey market releases, but I wouldn't say they are overpriced and they do provide an easily accessible starting point for anyone who is looking for an easy way into the world of Elvis vinyl. Agree that the original and official releases are always going to sound better though 👍🏻

  • @haraldtrittner4396

    @haraldtrittner4396

    2 ай бұрын

    ​​​​​@@sincerelyelvispresley...thank you Sean for your nice reply. Perhaps an idea as a kind of Volume 2 on 'Elvis Vinyl on a Budget': "Electronically Reprocessed Stereo Sound by RCA and the Story behind"! As far as i know, the theme is absolutely underrated on the big net😉

  • @sincerelyelvispresley

    @sincerelyelvispresley

    2 ай бұрын

    @haraldtrittner4396 that sounds like a great idea, thank you 👍🏻 I'll do some research and add it to my to-do list 🙂

  • @haraldtrittner4396

    @haraldtrittner4396

    2 ай бұрын

    ​​​@@sincerelyelvispresley THANK YOU Sean👌; i'm lookin' forward 🤗!!! @i subscribed on your YT-Channel at this moment

  • @sincerelyelvispresley

    @sincerelyelvispresley

    2 ай бұрын

    @haraldtrittner4396 thank you Harald, I really appreciate the support ❤️ I can't promise I'll get to the subject of reprocessed stereo quickly, as I already have a fair bit of content planned and scheduled, but I will get to it eventually, and at least the gap will give me plenty of chance to do some research 🙂

  • @ROCKINGMAN
    @ROCKINGMANАй бұрын

    I would prefer few good quality albums as opposed to many cheap ones. Elvis had many cheap ones, which I hate. He was a phenomanal singer/performer and some albums are not worthy of his talent. Such as reissues with electronically reprocessed stereo. Avoid them. Early Camdens are fine. The listening experience is heightened with good quality albums. In a record shop today they are selling Vol. 1 - 3 of the Essential series. RCA at this time start to issue something of quality. Good advice.

  • @DavidHuletlevensgoesting
    @DavidHuletlevensgoesting2 ай бұрын

    A great video my friend ,I like to collect on a budget to although I have a few that I paid somewhat more for🫠but generaly I go for the cheaper ones ,also like the "music on vinyl " products, but than again I like everything I can get my hands on😃for a decent price that is. Well done Sean👍

  • @sincerelyelvispresley

    @sincerelyelvispresley

    2 ай бұрын

    Thanks buddy, I know exactly what you mean, I have the best intentions of not spending too much, but if I see something really nice, I can't help myself! Plus, I'm a sucker for a nice coloured vinyl, so it would be nice to get the Music On Vinyl releases at some point, particularly the yellow versions of From Elvis In Memphis and Elvis Now. BTW, really enjoyed seeing the videos of your recent trip 👍🏻