Verdict on Carpenters Vinyl Collection: Buyer Beware

The Vinyl Collection [12 LP]

Carpenters fans were pleased to see the new 12-LP Vinyl Collection being released, with all of the albums being newly remastered and pressed on 180 gram vinyl, packaged in a collectible case and complete with original album jacket and record label artwork.

Initial reports, however, point to something different.

Forum members have spoken out, and reviews at retailers are starting to appear.

Put briefly, the set has numerous quality issues.  A few have had good luck with theirs, yet others have reported on issues with dirty vinyl, sharp edges on the records with excess flashing, tight spindle holes, and a couple off-center pressings.  We realize pressing plants are not a clean room environment, but new records also should not need a few cleanings on a record vacuum just to make them playable.

We are not making a complete judgment call at this time, but for now, we advise caution in purchasing this set.  Carefully read through our forum thread to see what our members have to say.  Check reviews on Amazon and elsewhere.

We are hopeful the situation is rectified by UMe.  Until then, purchase the Vinyl Collection at your own risk, and make certain your retailer has a good return policy for defective product.  If the situation changes, or doesn’t, we will update with a new post.