The Who “Whos Next” (1971) Vinyl LP First Pressing
$
37
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Description
An original 1971 U.S. first-press copy of The Who’s crowning studio achievement, "Who's Next" (Decca Records, DL 7192). This copy is highly prized by collectors for its legendary Mastering Lab provenance and pristine early-stamping matrix variations.
TECHNICAL PROVENANCE & RUNOUT MATRIX DATA: • Side 1 Matrix: MG7-12888-W2X (Hand-etched) • Side 2 Matrix: MG7-12889-W2 (Hand-etched)
AUDIOPHILE SIGNIFICANCE: The "W2X" and "W2" etchings prove that this historic record was mastered by the iconic Doug Sax at The Mastering Lab. Sax's early cuts are world-renowned for using pure tube-driven mastering chains that captured the true, uncompressed punch of the studio master tapes. Furthermore, the runout configuration confirms this vinyl was pressed at Decca's elite Pinckneyville, Illinois facility using fresh, early-generation master mothers. This delivers an open, transparent soundstage with incredibly heavy low-end bass and unparalleled transient clarity on Keith Moon's drum tracks—far superior to later MCA reissues.
Vinyl Condition: Near Mint. The labels are clean with no writing or spindle marks. The vinyl retains its brilliant original factory luster.
Jacket Condition: Very Good+. Solid, thick cardboard sleeve featuring the official gold foil promo stamp. Structurally sound with crisp edges, minor shelf wear at the corners, no seam splits, no cut-out holes. Light staining along the top of the front jacket and light ring wear on the rear.
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