Does the weight of vinyl matter?
This month’s Record Collector magazine had an article that questioned whether the weight of vinyl records matter. I was none the wiser after reading it. My take on this topic is that 180g and above vinyl is more likely to be flat, and is probably more durable for DJs than standard (120g) pressings. There is no difference in groove depth between the vinyl weights, because this is achieved at mastering. There is something substantial and reassuring about heavyweight vinyl that states “this is a quality/deluxe product”. I would be intensely annoyed if I paid €30 for a reissue that felt like a flexidisc.
More importantly is the colour – yes the colour of vinyl. True “virgin” vinyl is clear – it has traditionally been coloured black (“Sunken Condos” by Donald Fagen is clear). Black vinyl has some magnetic properties that may or may not influence sound quality (all of this is debatable of course). So if you are buying an LP clear is (maybe) better than black which is better than coloured. Picture discs are gimmicks that are not meant to be played (apparently foil on top of plastic).
Interestingly – Pat Metheny’s “Kin” was pressed on 2 x 140g clear vinyl.
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