Sound quality wasn’t horrible. I could still hear your voice, but I could also hear your Geiger Counter clicking in the background. You must really be cooking with gas!?
Thank you Michael ! Last years, I ordered these sleeves at "Mint Sleeves" in UK but now, I can order to your shop. I ordered some sleeves 2 days ago. But double pocket sleeves with single tuckable flap for me ! Thanks for all you doing for us in Europe !
I have recently started using VSS inner and outer sleeves exclusively. They are awesome! Made in a few different sizes that accommodate all of my records. The 3 mil inner sleeves are far superior to the MoFi sleeves I was using. They do not bind or fold over when inserting. Absolutely worth the money! They also make a great sleeve for box sets!
I have finally settled on my method and the right products. It is a great feeling once you have reached a method that satisfies your collecting/archival needs.
Very informative. Thanks. One thing I would like to say is that folks that live in humid climates may not want to seal up the jackets completely because trapped humidity inside may promote mold/mildew.
I'm so thankful that you are now offering vinyl storage solutions. You have no idea how much trouble and work you saved me. It was a pain in the a to get them over here in germany!!
Thanks for showing this I hope many will follow your examples. Through your channel I’ve been using storage solutions for the last 12 months, I would not use anything else. 👏👍
They also have dedicated Gatefold sleeves as well which are great. The fold is perfect in the middle, it slides right through from one end to another and then voila, a perfect protected gatefold
Maybe I'm just too old and set in my ways, but I refuse to do anything regarding gatefolds, and hate having my album anywhere but inside the sleeve as God intended. Yes, I know record shops in Europe have been doing this method forever. I prefer to keep everything inside, unless it becomes too tight for a poly sleeve which sometimes happens if it's a thick OG inner sleeve and booklet. I just don't handle the records enough to warrant this (for me), I don't sit with my covers as I listen like I did when I was a kid. Since I got my ultrasonic cleaner, I've been going through my entire collection and replacing the old, nasty outer sleeves (if any) with crystal clear 3m poly and inner sleeves with archival rice paper sleeves. I ordered some of the box-size sleeves from VSS a few days ago, look forward to having a way to protect the one-steps and especially the UHQR collection! Hope they release some other sizes soon - don't think the current ones will fit something like the Neu! box set.
Thank you for your last video on sleeving gate folds. I love it. Also, I like placing the tape on the bottom on non gate folds so my record is placed from the top in the dual pocket. Great video!
Thank you so much for this video. I live in the United States and use the 4 Mil dual pockets as well. For the inner sleeves, I use the Mofi because when I first researched inner sleeves, these were the best and I purchased 6 cases. So I’m pretty much tied to them (financially) and I do like them. No complaints here, but a 3 Mil is better for protection, for sure. And I’m glad you seal the dual pocket on the right side. When I first purchased them, I was sealing it at the bottom, but the flap was getting bent from incoming records, so I switched to the right side. It’s much better AND you can read the spine clearer. Thanks again, Michael! I really enjoy this channel.
I learned the gatefold trick from you a year or so ago. I adapt my version by not unsealing the inner gatefold strip, but leaving it intact and tucking the flap under the sealable part. This way the plastic doesn’t bunch up in the middle inner of the album cover and it closes completely and comfortably. If there’s a book in the middle of the album cover I’ll cut the inner flap off and not seal it.
Excellent video. Thanks for taking the effort in informing us with so many welcome solutions. This certainly helps in preserving our beloved collections for many generations to come, but first of all ourselves ;) . ~Marjet
Wonderful video mate, very helpful! I am ordering some sleeves very soon, so this is really great for me! It’s so important to protect our precious records and their covers, and I trust your experience and knowledge. Thank you for another great and useful video ❤
It was good of you to put together this video Michael. It was very helpful to me as a newcomer to the VSS sleeves. Earlier this week I put in my first order with VSS and will have them soon I expect. I think I will like this approach to protection very much. Thank you.
Sound quality is fine Michael.Thanks for sharing .Absolutely brilliant I had to laugh I do exactly the same as your demonstration .I’ve been using these sleeves for 3 years they are the best in the business , the dual pocket is quite ingenious it gives old original jackets so much pop and purpose. A great addition to what is already an amazing quality vinyl shop. Michael 🙌🙏 Thanks Michael,
They're the _only_ ones I've been able to find that actually make covers for box sets. That seems like a no-brainer. I have a local source I think is just as good for single sleeves and inner archival sleeves (USA made), and is far less especially considering shipping. But you cannot go wrong with VSS, and they certainly offer the largest variety I've seen for all types of needs.
Such a shame I didn't see this before I sleeved the thousand or so records I have - I love the outer sleeve with the pocket! I use the MFSL outers and inners. The cover goes into the outer sleeve so that the top is open then the record goes into the inner sleeve and the sleeve into the back of the outer sleeve, sideways (to prevent dust getting to the record). This works fine actually and I can easily get the record out whilst leaving the cover in but your solution is better. Thank you for taking the time to show us your solution and, living in Europe, I may just follow your suggestion and get some of these.
Ich freue mich, die Sachen von Vinyl Storage Solutions nun endlich auch in Deutschland bestellen zu können. Bisher war ja immer der teure Umweg über GB nötig. Hab direkt mal ein paar Sachen bestellt. Alles Gute und viel Erfolg für Dich und Deinen Shop!
I learned about VSS from Michael when he first started here and they are the only things I use for the record and the jacket. There are a few jackets they don’t fit but in 98% of all jackets they do. They are a little more expensive but in my opinion worth it.
I've been using the dual pocket with flap for non-gatefolds instead of the sealable. I like this better because if the record has lyric inserts I can keep those in the jacket and still get at them easily via the flap (instead of having to keep unsealing which will eventually make the seal fail). This keeps all paper products out of the pocket with the record to minimize dust. I wish VSS would offer a version of their gatefold sleeve with 2 pockets on the insides of the gatefold. Then I would use those instead of 2 resealable sleeves for the same reason, I'd be able to keep lyric sheets, booklets, etc. in the gatefold and not with the vinyl to minimize dust. I like all the vinyl surrounded purely by plastic to prevent any dust from paper products contaminating it after it's been ultrasonically cleaned. For this reason in your sample double record I'd put the two vinyl records in the pocket inside the gatefold and all the paper products in the pocket outside the gatefold.
Great vid and I do this very similar. My two tweaks that work well for me are: 1. I cut the hype sticker to size (on shrink but not peeled off) and then slide it into outer before sealing. This kind if makes it look like it's in its original packaging. Many people ask if I have sealed records...which of course they are not. 2. On a gatefold, I do not seal the inside. Inleave that loose and find this helps the gatefold close better and is still covering the inside seam with the flap (just not sealed)
For me the entry to the subject, has always been good inner and outer sleeves. By time, the more precious and expensive records, has been "upgraded", by f.ex heavy duty gatefold Pvc Outer sleeves. I use them for MOFI, AP, Classic Records and so forth. I do not go the length u and others do, but as long as u keep your records clean, and take care of the "package", u will have these items until u leave this Earth ☯️✌️❤️🇩🇰
Good stuff....keeping your records in pristine shape very vital. I just started using outer sleeves about a year and a half and gradually have now sleeved close to 1300 and use for every used and new record going forward. For those who want a great inexpensive option....the Big Fudge outer sleeves are excellent and work and look perfect on single AND double records....the Invest in Vinyl inner sleeves with rice paper are just as good as MOFI ....both are extremely inexpensive and available on Amazon.....Big Fudge even gives you a 20% off coupon on each order so you can order from them direct. The multi sleeve packaging for double records is overkill and a waste of money to me personally....I use the BF outer and put one record inside the gatefold and one on the outside....works perfectly....just my 2 cents....either way....sleeve your records inside and out whatever your method or choice👍
Yep, me too... However, I must admit that after 40+ years of collecting vinyl, I've never seen the way Michael does it for gatefolds, very clever! I'm a bit jealous because it is *SO* damn thorough (Of course, being German, are we surprised? 😁) But, like you say, although I do admire this way, especially for gatefolds, I too am content basically with what you do. But, it is sharp to have the cover completely sealed and protected and still have direct access to the discs on the out/inside pockets. So, for those who are more anal (or German 😊) this method is most clever!
Pretty serious archival setup you have there Michael, thanks for sharing I do not suggest a sealed tight outer sleeve - the record shouldn’t be airtight. This is how I do it ( you only have to buy one type of outer sleeve and you get easy hands on access to the record and actual full covers. Take an open outer sleeve and orient the opening at the top of the record - not the side Put the record in the inner sleeve with the vinyl opening towards the side, not the top Slide the sleeved record down the “backside” of the lp cover along with the replaced lyric / graphics sleeves next to it. The opening at the top allows you to pull the records on and off the shelf with no outer sleeve movement. Dust can not get in and the record can still breath. Very important. Always rice paper always 3 mill or higher. This allows you to slide the record or the whole jacket out easily and you can touch all the artwork etc just by pulling it out the top. If you can salvage the original outer sleeve with hype sticker and it won’t compromise the record protection do that otherwise you can cut out the hype label and drop it down in front of the record cover in the outer sleeve Acoustic Sounds QRP sleeves (my favorite - buy in bulk) - they don’t stick when trying to open them like MoFI’s do. Sleeve City is another good source. Sleevey Wonder makes some nice custom thickness box set outer sleeves to hold One Step and also for much bigger box sets If it’s a gatefold I place all the records on the outside and sometimes you have to keep the graphics sleeves in the original slots in order for them to fit. There are slightly wider sleeves to fit thicker records. Your Mileage May Vary
Great idea Michael. The only thing I would do is to would expel all the air out from between the plastic sleeve and the cover before sticking down the strips.
Also a VSS customer. Right after my ultrasonic cleaner, these sleeves are the best investment for my collection. Outside of the sound (intern/editing?) good video M45! 💪🏻
i found ultrasonic to be a great cleaning tool but I really use vacuum cleaner after to suck all water and dirt out of the grooves, it helps to dry them and keep the grooves clean
Nice video. Very important to stress that records should not be packed too tight, and should have room to breathe (whether on shelves or in packing boxes). If packed too tight, the records will be prone to warping, particularly when the jacket is not flat, or there are 45's, CD's or posters inside the jacket, or when you place other items in the sleeves (for example the original Analogue Productions outer sleeve).
Ive got nr unplayed 70yr old records in their original poly lined sleeves that are NM and clean. The only time to buy poly sleeves is when a record doesnt come with one and even then an inexpensive poly one will do just fine.
The records look nice in those sleeves, but please don’t let people believe that they are in any way essential in order to keep records in excellent condition. I’ve been able to handle a record collection in perfect condition for almost 40 years. Regular polyethylene sleeves works fine. Also, why would you exchange a great inner sleeve from, for example, AP? I don’t get it. This new generation of record collectors have taken it to an extreme.
Great video as always Michael. A couple of questions: 1) how did you handle things like the recent “Stand Up” When do you keep hype stickers present on the Lp? For example with specific hype notes like intervention, I trim the hype sticker. Otherwise I put the hype sticker inside the original jacket (especially for AP; where all the hype stickers are essentially the same. I can always pull them out later and one less thing to keep up with when I’m playing them
Very cool video Michael. I was wondering what people did with the QRP shrink/sleeves. I have been doing exactly what you do. In my mind I think it gives even a little added protection against the record itself.
Great video. I hope this isn’t a stupid question but how do you get the shrink wrap off? I always end up ripping it however I do keep the hype stickers and receipts if I buy it from a shop.
Hey michael thank you for that. Not related but do you have a good tip to find Genesis good pressings? And i answered to your questions on the other vidéo👍
Thanks for the video, I may have to look into doing this. I have one question, do the sleeves stick together on the self? I find the few I have with sleeves are much harder to take out the shelf without pulling the other records out or pushing them all in when using shelving like the Ikea Kallax. Any tips?
Thanks for your video and the explanation! Looking forward to using Vinyl Solution sleeves. Have question about the inner sleeved, though. In your video you're explaining about the 3 mil, but in your store in the description it says 2 or 3 mil sleeves, so I'm a bit confused. Are some sleeves 2 mol and others 3 mil?
Hi Michael, how do you handle your box sets? I always swap out the inner sleeves like you but never sure if I should protect the jackets? What are your thoughts?
Hello, have you used any of the VSS gatefold outer sleeves? If so, how would you compare them to your method using single dual pocket outer sleeves? Thank you for your excellent videos. Cheers.
Mike do you find that on the AP trifold that with the covers that it causes the album to be more difficult to close due to the added material of the clear cover
Mike, thanks so much for showing this! A question I have is, how do you store a box like The Beatles Mono? I've found that adding outers makes the lps kind of a tight fit for storage in original box. So do you sleeve the lps and store separately? Thanks again.
So what is the brand of your glasses please? 😉 On a sidenote, ive been using the Mint dual-pocket sleeves here in the UK for sometime now - perfect for the job 🤘
Dear Audiophile mastermind" This may be perceived as off -the-topic, but give it a sincerelytry. I wonder if you can do additional/more in depth programs on the Audio desk systeme vinyl cleaner (AD). I was forced to buy this expensive machine, but it is like a gift from God, changed my whole relationship with my music. I live in a small apartment with my dog, who sheds hair. In the 6 years I started with vinyl, I have invested 10000 euros in vinyl, and all possible cleaning methods, despite this the dust has not disappeared, needles up to 700 euros have deteriorated, or destroyed. Almost gave up. Bought a Vinyl Cleaner VC-S, regardless of this, one could not really get under inside the tracks. An old jazz record that has been in an attic storage for decades, admittedly has no scratches, but the dust roughly penetrates the record like paint. The question is if you read all this is, can I routinely use AD? Someone said that using ultra light waves is too much wear and tear on the disc, but this was a much cheaper machine. All the time having to dust off records takes away the joyfulness, this is one of the biggest benefits with AD. In other channels that went through the machine, it was more the result. Not about maintenance, how much difference there is in the washing between the 5 different programs. The manual for the machine is very basic. Buying an expensive Lp player/needle and records for thousands of euros, becomes a "brain dead" project for my own part if the record are not clean. All your fantastic contribution, about different qualities of editions, of records falls flat. If I, as the owner, have clean records, which is my responsibility. I think there are many people like me who bought lots of cleaning bags, brushes and followed crazy cleaning tips on CZcams. I myself have tried liquid dishwasher detergent and ruined a Neil Young record after putting glue on the record. Wondered for a while if some of these help programs were practical jokes, by people with a fetish for destroying other people's records. Of course, it is probably me who is the problem in the drama. You could make completely comedy programs, about crazy ways to clean records, it will be like reviewing turkey movies. Always good to be able to laugh at yourself. Saw a guy get rid of dust by throwing records up in the air and catching them on the way down.
Hi, nice video, and good sleeves. I need your help. I like to order the sleeves to individual, and gatefold, vinyl records outer sleeves. There is some options. so what the reference/s I have to order? Thanks for the help. Best José
Vinyl Storage Solution's products are great. Many thanks for bringing those to the EU. Two questions: 1. How do you deal with gatefolds that have an integrated booklet, like the Tone Poet stereo Blue Train or pop-ups, like Stand Up? 2. What is the difference between the two types of 12" dual pocket outer sleeves on your website? The explanation text seems to be identical.
2. One has resealable (adhesive strip) flap, the other has tuckable (no adhesive) flap, no? (And I suspect that 2 other variants might appear in the shop in the future, with not single but double flaps: one on both sides of the sleeve. So attention will be required when ordering the right type for you)
Hi Michael, been using VSS for a year now great products use 4ml dual outer sleeve. Quick question how do I use it for the recent album AP, Wonderful Sounds Quality Pressings, the recent release. Great video as always. By the way I’m huge glasses frames man, what make is your frame, thought it maybe Oliver Goldsmith
@45 RPM audiophile Do the ones on your store work for gatefold albums? The dual pocket I mean? Also, are the inner sleeves in this video the same as on your website?
Hi Michael I got them sleeves from your previous vid, I will get more not from you. A question on record cleaners do you think the degritter is a good buy or what would you prefer, thanks Sean
I was wondering, why should i go for a 12.75 outer sleeve and not 12 ? I'm still confused what to pick. 12 or 12.75. I guess 12 is fine for normal single vinyls but for double gatefolds ... should i go with 12.75 or stick with 12? thanks
Love the channel Michael but… The single pocket sleeves look great. I haven’t been able to try them yet but will. But your system for gatefold albums seems far too complicated. Why not use a simple gatefold sleeve? I had to lie down in a darkened room and seek therapy as you moved onto the triple sleeve demonstration. Wow. I’ve spent the last year or so rediscovering my vinyl and trying a variety of sleeves. It’s been fun if a kind of madness. 😂 Vinyl Solutions single pocket sleeves would seem to be the best solution for normal albums. No doubt expensive but certainly worth it for important LPs. I’ll find another way to deal with gatefolds though. Look forward to your next video.
The outer sleeves remind me of the plastic covering my mother used to use on couches. I hated those and vowed never to use them. I feel the same way about outer sleeves. As long as you don’t pack your records too tight, don’t pour coffee on them, or handle them with dirty hands, they should be fine. Without outer sleeves it’s much easier to read the spines. And there are no flaps to deal with when removing the records. I didn’t buy these records as an investment; I bought them to listen to. In terms of caring what happens to them when I’m gone- it doesn’t concern me at all. No one’s going to make a fortune selling my 4,000 records. Everything in this world is ephemeral. I expect many to disagree. Feel free to give me a thumbs down…
I had an aunt that used those plastic covers on her living room furniture, she had them on her car seats too. I also hated them. And if I sat on my records I'd agree with you. But I don't so I use VSS sleeves. I like the idea of storing the vinyl with no paper near it to minimize dust particles. I don't do it because of the resale, when that happens I'll be dead and will no longer exist to care what happens. I do it because I want them preserved for me. Regarding the spines, VSS sleeves only have seams on 2 sides instead of 3, the lack of a seam along the spine makes reading them a lot easier than conventional plastic sleeves. This is especially true with gatefolds where the plastic is flush to the jacket. You are of course free to do whatever you want with your records.
“ And if I sat on my records I'd agree with you.” Funny! No I don’t sit on my records, at least not consciously. I started collecting about 20 years ago both new and used records. I don’t pack my records too tightly, I stand them upright, they’re in a controlled temperature room and they’re handled carefully. Most look absolutely fine. I try to avoid touching them if my fingers are covered with peanut butter, chocolate, ketchup, etc. Many of us in the vinyl community tend to be excessively anal. I qualify in some respects. I clean most of my records and put them in new inner sleeves. That’s about as far as I’m willing to go as far as the obsessive parts of this hobby. There’s too much plastic in this world! I like to let my records breathe!
Yes, I don't get outer sleeves either. Why should I put beautiful and colorfull cardboard in ugly plastic sleeves? The oldest records I bought new are now 20 years old and they still look absolutely fine. Of course I replace paper innersleeves with polylined sleeves, that's important in my opinion. But here I also prefer the white ones...
One simple thing I highly recommend is to handle the records by the label and edges only. I see some so called experts on best sounding pressings (not you!) putting their fingers on the playing surface. Makes me cringe every time I see it. Skin oils are no good for vinyl. All the poly-lined record sleeves in the world will not save poor record handling!
And another promotional video (actually, a promotional video that is interrupted by promotional videos 🤔) Of course, there's nothing wrong with wanting to make money from CZcams. As an independent authority, however, you may then fail. It would have been nice if the channel was really about music again, maybe with a touch of objective (and since it's about music, also subjective) criticism. Instead, it just keeps monetizing. But you could have guessed that early on. What true music fan promotes buying vinyl on Amazon (to make money off it)? And wasn't this voucher thing for the shop already the tip of the iceberg. A really outdated sales trick. ECM will definitely appear in the shop soon 🤣 Service is a fine thing. However, infomercials should also be marked as such. And as always: just my 2 cents. PS: This whole packaging madness has already been explained in detail on this channel.
I am very sorry for the difficult soundquality!
LOL. I had to take 2 tylenol at the 1 minute mark.
Sound quality wasn’t horrible. I could still hear your voice, but I could also hear your Geiger Counter clicking in the background. You must really be cooking with gas!?
But what about the glasses? We NEED to know...
I don't think we were hearing the microphone clipped to your shirt.
Sound quality was fine 👍
Your tips to take care of Lp records are a treasure, and appreciate that you make it so simple. Sharing is caring. Thank you.
Thank you Michael ! Last years, I ordered these sleeves at "Mint Sleeves" in UK but now, I can order to your shop. I ordered some sleeves 2 days ago. But double pocket sleeves with single tuckable flap for me ! Thanks for all you doing for us in Europe !
I have recently started using VSS inner and outer sleeves exclusively. They are awesome! Made in a few different sizes that accommodate all of my records. The 3 mil inner sleeves are far superior to the MoFi sleeves I was using. They do not bind or fold over when inserting. Absolutely worth the money! They also make a great sleeve for box sets!
Received my shipment yesterday. These bags are great! Ordering was easy and shipping went smoothly. Thanks Michael!
I have finally settled on my method and the right products. It is a great feeling once you have reached a method that satisfies your collecting/archival needs.
Very informative. Thanks. One thing I would like to say is that folks that live in humid climates may not want to seal up the jackets completely because trapped humidity inside may promote mold/mildew.
Ideally you want to keep the humidity below 60% in your storage area by running a dehumidifier.
I'm so thankful that you are now offering vinyl storage solutions. You have no idea how much trouble and work you saved me. It was a pain in the a to get them over here in germany!!
Thanks Nadine happy that you like it!!
@Michael is there a chance you are getting the gatefold as well?
Thanks for showing this I hope many will follow your examples. Through your channel I’ve been using storage solutions for the last 12 months, I would not use anything else. 👏👍
That is a great storage solution and protects the artists' work.
They also have dedicated Gatefold sleeves as well which are great. The fold is perfect in the middle, it slides right through from one end to another and then voila, a perfect protected gatefold
Yes way easier in my opinion rather than dealing with the adhesive strips.
I handle it exactly the same way. So happy I can buy the sleeves now in Germany. Thanks to Casper from Mint Sleeves who shipped reliable to Germany.
Maybe I'm just too old and set in my ways, but I refuse to do anything regarding gatefolds, and hate having my album anywhere but inside the sleeve as God intended. Yes, I know record shops in Europe have been doing this method forever. I prefer to keep everything inside, unless it becomes too tight for a poly sleeve which sometimes happens if it's a thick OG inner sleeve and booklet. I just don't handle the records enough to warrant this (for me), I don't sit with my covers as I listen like I did when I was a kid. Since I got my ultrasonic cleaner, I've been going through my entire collection and replacing the old, nasty outer sleeves (if any) with crystal clear 3m poly and inner sleeves with archival rice paper sleeves. I ordered some of the box-size sleeves from VSS a few days ago, look forward to having a way to protect the one-steps and especially the UHQR collection! Hope they release some other sizes soon - don't think the current ones will fit something like the Neu! box set.
Thank you for your last video on sleeving gate folds. I love it. Also, I like placing the tape on the bottom on non gate folds so my record is placed from the top in the dual pocket. Great video!
Thank you so much for this video. I live in the United States and use the 4 Mil dual pockets as well. For the inner sleeves, I use the Mofi because when I first researched inner sleeves, these were the best and I purchased 6 cases. So I’m pretty much tied to them (financially) and I do like them. No complaints here, but a 3 Mil is better for protection, for sure. And I’m glad you seal the dual pocket on the right side. When I first purchased them, I was sealing it at the bottom, but the flap was getting bent from incoming records, so I switched to the right side. It’s much better AND you can read the spine clearer. Thanks again, Michael! I really enjoy this channel.
In my opinion, found it so interesting that didn't mind the sound quality👍
I learned the gatefold trick from you a year or so ago. I adapt my version by not unsealing the inner gatefold strip, but leaving it intact and tucking the flap under the sealable part. This way the plastic doesn’t bunch up in the middle inner of the album cover and it closes completely and comfortably.
If there’s a book in the middle of the album cover I’ll cut the inner flap off and not seal it.
Very interesting. That solves the bunching problem. I wonder if you can use one sealable and one tuckable sleeve instead of two sealable sleeves.
Excellent video. Thanks for taking the effort in informing us with so many welcome solutions. This certainly helps in preserving our beloved collections for many generations to come, but first of all ourselves ;) . ~Marjet
Wonderful video mate, very helpful! I am ordering some sleeves very soon, so this is really great for me! It’s so important to protect our precious records and their covers, and I trust your experience and knowledge. Thank you for another great and useful video ❤
It was good of you to put together this video Michael. It was very helpful to me as a newcomer to the VSS sleeves. Earlier this week I put in my first order with VSS and will have them soon I expect. I think I will like this approach to protection very much. Thank you.
Sound quality is fine Michael.Thanks for sharing .Absolutely brilliant I had to laugh I do exactly the same as your demonstration .I’ve been using these sleeves for 3 years they are the best in the business , the dual pocket is quite ingenious it gives old original jackets so much pop and purpose.
A great addition to what is already an amazing quality vinyl shop.
Michael 🙌🙏
Thanks Michael,
They're the _only_ ones I've been able to find that actually make covers for box sets. That seems like a no-brainer. I have a local source I think is just as good for single sleeves and inner archival sleeves (USA made), and is far less especially considering shipping. But you cannot go wrong with VSS, and they certainly offer the largest variety I've seen for all types of needs.
All questions I had were answered. Excellent informative Video. Thx Michael
Nice demo ideas. Thank you, Michael.
Such a shame I didn't see this before I sleeved the thousand or so records I have - I love the outer sleeve with the pocket!
I use the MFSL outers and inners.
The cover goes into the outer sleeve so that the top is open then the record goes into the inner sleeve and the sleeve into the back of the outer sleeve, sideways (to prevent dust getting to the record).
This works fine actually and I can easily get the record out whilst leaving the cover in but your solution is better.
Thank you for taking the time to show us your solution and, living in Europe, I may just follow your suggestion and get some of these.
The second angle is fun! Michael is fully three-dimensional!
Awesome video, Michael. Those from Vinyl Storage Solutions are good, but your zoomed out perspective adds another dimension to the process.
Ich freue mich, die Sachen von Vinyl Storage Solutions nun endlich auch in Deutschland bestellen zu können. Bisher war ja immer der teure Umweg über GB nötig. Hab direkt mal ein paar Sachen bestellt.
Alles Gute und viel Erfolg für Dich und Deinen Shop!
I learned about VSS from Michael when he first started here and they are the only things I use for the record and the jacket. There are a few jackets they don’t fit but in 98% of all jackets they do. They are a little more expensive but in my opinion worth it.
I've been using the dual pocket with flap for non-gatefolds instead of the sealable. I like this better because if the record has lyric inserts I can keep those in the jacket and still get at them easily via the flap (instead of having to keep unsealing which will eventually make the seal fail). This keeps all paper products out of the pocket with the record to minimize dust.
I wish VSS would offer a version of their gatefold sleeve with 2 pockets on the insides of the gatefold. Then I would use those instead of 2 resealable sleeves for the same reason, I'd be able to keep lyric sheets, booklets, etc. in the gatefold and not with the vinyl to minimize dust.
I like all the vinyl surrounded purely by plastic to prevent any dust from paper products contaminating it after it's been ultrasonically cleaned. For this reason in your sample double record I'd put the two vinyl records in the pocket inside the gatefold and all the paper products in the pocket outside the gatefold.
Thickness = protection, great slogan!!
I think that was Trojan’s original slogan!
Great vid and I do this very similar. My two tweaks that work well for me are:
1. I cut the hype sticker to size (on shrink but not peeled off) and then slide it into outer before sealing. This kind if makes it look like it's in its original packaging. Many people ask if I have sealed records...which of course they are not.
2. On a gatefold, I do not seal the inside. Inleave that loose and find this helps the gatefold close better and is still covering the inside seam with the flap (just not sealed)
For me the entry to the subject, has always been good inner and outer sleeves. By time, the more precious and expensive records, has been "upgraded", by f.ex heavy duty gatefold Pvc Outer sleeves. I use them for MOFI, AP, Classic Records and so forth.
I do not go the length u and others do, but as long as u keep your records clean, and take care of the "package", u will have these items until u leave this Earth ☯️✌️❤️🇩🇰
Good stuff....keeping your records in pristine shape very vital. I just started using outer sleeves about a year and a half and gradually have now sleeved close to 1300 and use for every used and new record going forward. For those who want a great inexpensive option....the Big Fudge outer sleeves are excellent and work and look perfect on single AND double records....the Invest in Vinyl inner sleeves with rice paper are just as good as MOFI ....both are extremely inexpensive and available on Amazon.....Big Fudge even gives you a 20% off coupon on each order so you can order from them direct. The multi sleeve packaging for double records is overkill and a waste of money to me personally....I use the BF outer and put one record inside the gatefold and one on the outside....works perfectly....just my 2 cents....either way....sleeve your records inside and out whatever your method or choice👍
Yep, me too... However, I must admit that after 40+ years of collecting vinyl, I've never seen the way Michael does it for gatefolds, very clever! I'm a bit jealous because it is *SO* damn thorough (Of course, being German, are we surprised? 😁) But, like you say, although I do admire this way, especially for gatefolds, I too am content basically with what you do. But, it is sharp to have the cover completely sealed and protected and still have direct access to the discs on the out/inside pockets. So, for those who are more anal (or German 😊) this method is most clever!
That’s pretty slick. I’ll have to try it.
Pretty serious archival setup you have there Michael, thanks for sharing
I do not suggest a sealed tight outer sleeve - the record shouldn’t be airtight.
This is how I do it ( you only have to buy one type of outer sleeve and you get easy hands on access to the record and actual full covers.
Take an open outer sleeve and orient the opening at the top of the record - not the side
Put the record in the inner sleeve with the vinyl opening towards the side, not the top
Slide the sleeved record down the “backside” of the lp cover along with the replaced lyric / graphics sleeves next to it. The opening at the top allows you to pull the records on and off the shelf with no outer sleeve movement.
Dust can not get in and the record can still breath. Very important. Always rice paper always 3 mill or higher.
This allows you to slide the record or the whole jacket out easily and you can touch all the artwork etc just by pulling it out the top.
If you can salvage the original outer sleeve with hype sticker and it won’t compromise the record protection do that otherwise you can cut out the hype label and drop it down in front of the record cover in the outer sleeve
Acoustic Sounds QRP sleeves (my favorite - buy in bulk) - they don’t stick when trying to open them like MoFI’s do. Sleeve City is another good source. Sleevey Wonder makes some nice custom thickness box set outer sleeves to hold One Step and also for much bigger box sets
If it’s a gatefold I place all the records on the outside and sometimes you have to keep the graphics sleeves in the original slots in order for them to fit. There are slightly wider sleeves to fit thicker records.
Your Mileage May Vary
Great idea Michael. The only thing I would do is to would expel all the air out from between the plastic sleeve and the cover before sticking down the strips.
Also a VSS customer. Right after my ultrasonic cleaner, these sleeves are the best investment for my collection. Outside of the sound (intern/editing?) good video M45! 💪🏻
i found ultrasonic to be a great cleaning tool but I really use vacuum cleaner after to suck all water and dirt out of the grooves, it helps to dry them and keep the grooves clean
Nice video. Very important to stress that records should not be packed too tight, and should have room to breathe (whether on shelves or in packing boxes). If packed too tight, the records will be prone to warping, particularly when the jacket is not flat, or there are 45's, CD's or posters inside the jacket, or when you place other items in the sleeves (for example the original Analogue Productions outer sleeve).
Ive got nr unplayed 70yr old records in their original poly lined sleeves that are NM and clean. The only time to buy poly sleeves is when a record doesnt come with one and even then an inexpensive poly one will do just fine.
Dankeschön für diese klasse erklärung😎
The records look nice in those sleeves, but please don’t let people believe that they are in any way essential in order to keep records in excellent condition. I’ve been able to handle a record collection in perfect condition for almost 40 years. Regular polyethylene sleeves works fine. Also, why would you exchange a great inner sleeve from, for example, AP? I don’t get it. This new generation of record collectors have taken it to an extreme.
My 45 year old records and even the vpi inner sleeves look pristine too
Ingenious, thank you for sharing your method. A question if I may, do you clean every record before fitting the sleeve please?
Thanks for doing this. Happy New Year!!
Mr. Pete--------->
aging hippie
Great video as always Michael. A couple of questions:
1) how did you handle things like the recent “Stand Up”
When do you keep hype stickers present on the Lp? For example with specific hype notes like intervention, I trim the hype sticker. Otherwise I put the hype sticker inside the original jacket (especially for AP; where all the hype stickers are essentially the same. I can always pull them out later and one less thing to keep up with when I’m playing them
Very cool video Michael. I was wondering what people did with the QRP shrink/sleeves. I have been doing exactly what you do. In my mind I think it gives even a little added protection against the record itself.
Great video. I hope this isn’t a stupid question but how do you get the shrink wrap off? I always end up ripping it however I do keep the hype stickers and receipts if I buy it from a shop.
I will go to you shop to get it...!
I never use those outer sleeves with a sticky strip and flap, it's far too easy to have an accident and destroy a record jacket.
It also doesn’t breath and traps in moisture, creates film on the vinyl
Hey michael thank you for that. Not related but do you have a good tip to find Genesis good pressings? And i answered to your questions on the other vidéo👍
Thanks for the video, I may have to look into doing this. I have one question, do the sleeves stick together on the self? I find the few I have with sleeves are much harder to take out the shelf without pulling the other records out or pushing them all in when using shelving like the Ikea Kallax.
Any tips?
Thanks for your video and the explanation! Looking forward to using Vinyl Solution sleeves. Have question about the inner sleeved, though. In your video you're explaining about the 3 mil, but in your store in the description it says 2 or 3 mil sleeves, so I'm a bit confused. Are some sleeves 2 mol and others 3 mil?
Hi Michael, how do you handle your box sets? I always swap out the inner sleeves like you but never sure if I should protect the jackets? What are your thoughts?
The sound was fine. Makes it more personable and intimate. Great episode too.
Hello, have you used any of the VSS gatefold outer sleeves? If so, how would you compare them to your method using single dual pocket outer sleeves? Thank you for your excellent videos. Cheers.
What do you do for box sets? Remove each album, inset in the rice paper, and put the existing sleeve back, but what about the archival-sleeved albums?
Mike do you find that on the AP trifold that with the covers that it causes the album to be more difficult to close due to the added material of the clear cover
Mike, thanks so much for showing this! A question I have is, how do you store a box like The Beatles Mono? I've found that adding outers makes the lps kind of a tight fit for storage in original box. So do you sleeve the lps and store separately?
Thanks again.
i once did it but not anymore... not enough space
So what is the brand of your glasses please? 😉 On a sidenote, ive been using the Mint dual-pocket sleeves here in the UK for sometime now - perfect for the job 🤘
Just curious if leaving the LP (or two for that matter) outside the sleeve, will cause the seam of the outer sleeve to flatten or buckle???
Dear Audiophile mastermind" This may be perceived as off -the-topic, but give it a sincerelytry. I wonder if you can do additional/more in depth programs on the Audio desk systeme vinyl cleaner (AD). I was forced to buy this expensive machine, but it is like a gift from God, changed my whole relationship with my music. I live in a small apartment with my dog, who sheds hair. In the 6 years I started with vinyl, I have invested 10000 euros in vinyl, and all possible cleaning methods, despite this the dust has not disappeared, needles up to 700 euros have deteriorated, or destroyed. Almost gave up. Bought a Vinyl Cleaner VC-S, regardless of this, one could not really get under inside the tracks. An old jazz record that has been in an attic storage for decades, admittedly has no scratches, but the dust roughly penetrates the record like paint.
The question is if you read all this is, can I routinely use AD? Someone said that using ultra light waves is too much wear and tear on the disc, but this was a much cheaper machine. All the time having to dust off records takes away the joyfulness, this is one of the biggest benefits with AD. In other channels that went through the machine, it was more the result. Not about maintenance, how much difference there is in the washing between the 5 different programs. The manual for the machine is very basic.
Buying an expensive Lp player/needle and records for thousands of euros, becomes a "brain dead" project for my own part if the record are not clean. All your fantastic contribution, about different qualities of editions, of records falls flat. If I, as the owner, have clean records, which is my responsibility.
I think there are many people like me who bought lots of cleaning bags, brushes and followed crazy cleaning tips on CZcams. I myself have tried liquid dishwasher detergent and ruined a Neil Young record after putting glue on the record. Wondered for a while if some of these help programs were practical jokes, by people with a fetish for destroying other people's records. Of course, it is probably me who is the problem in the drama. You could make completely comedy programs, about crazy ways to clean records, it will be like reviewing turkey movies. Always good to be able to laugh at yourself. Saw a guy get rid of dust by throwing records up in the air and catching them on the way down.
Thanks for the storage info. Question - Have you ever described your system, just curious what you're using to evaluate the recordings
czcams.com/video/iF2Qr8OpNxs/video.html
Happy New Year. Michael, was wondering if you clean every new record.
Yes i do!
Hi, Mike, do you collect CD's such as SACD
Hi, nice video, and good sleeves. I need your help. I like to order the sleeves to individual, and gatefold, vinyl records outer sleeves.
There is some options. so what the reference/s I have to order? Thanks for the help.
Best
José
Almost but I trim hype stickers with a razor pen then put on front of lp cover
And now the question, whats the brand of your sweatshirts and Tshirts? They looks nice casual and understatement.
Vinyl Storage Solution's products are great. Many thanks for bringing those to the EU. Two questions:
1. How do you deal with gatefolds that have an integrated booklet, like the Tone Poet stereo Blue Train or pop-ups, like Stand Up?
2. What is the difference between the two types of 12" dual pocket outer sleeves on your website? The explanation text seems to be identical.
scissors :-)
@@Michael45RPM thanks 😄
2. One has resealable (adhesive strip) flap, the other has tuckable (no adhesive) flap, no? (And I suspect that 2 other variants might appear in the shop in the future, with not single but double flaps: one on both sides of the sleeve. So attention will be required when ordering the right type for you)
@@Domonkos.Siegfried Many thanks!
Hi Michael, been using VSS for a year now great products use 4ml dual outer sleeve. Quick question how do I use it for the recent album AP, Wonderful Sounds Quality Pressings, the recent release. Great video as always. By the way I’m huge glasses frames man, what make is your frame, thought it maybe Oliver Goldsmith
i show that in the Video
So where do you get your cool glasses Michael?
@45 RPM audiophile
Do the ones on your store work for gatefold albums? The dual pocket I mean? Also, are the inner sleeves in this video the same as on your website?
Ignore that. I need two sleeves for gatefold right?
yes thats right ben
Hi Michael I got them sleeves from your previous vid, I will get more not from you. A question on record cleaners do you think the degritter is a good buy or what would you prefer, thanks Sean
Does anyone know of a good place to get these sleeves in Australia? I'd love to use them but shipping from Canada is prohibitively expensive.
Nice video. How to you handle vinyl with OBI like VMP?
they go into the pocket
I actually keep my OBI on and put the outers over it. It is super clean and looks like it is still sealed. Ha
watch out for some of those hype stickers they have strange adhesive
What is the name of the company that you ordered your glasses from. I searched on your page and could not find where you have that information.
Hello!
I was wondering, why should i go for a 12.75 outer sleeve and not 12 ? I'm still confused what to pick. 12 or 12.75. I guess 12 is fine for normal single vinyls but for double gatefolds ... should i go with 12.75 or stick with 12? thanks
the 12.75 is for extra larger Jackets.. usually the 12 inch is perfect
@@Michael45RPM thnx , even for gatefolds ? with single sleeves and tape trick
I would have preferred that you went into more detail on the trifold like you did on the others where you actually do it hands on.
I enjoyed watching....excellent!
Do tone poets fit into these outer without being too tight?
Yes i do it since 2 years
How hard can it be when you buy a record, listen once and then leave it on a shelf for eternity…?🤷♂️
Love the channel Michael but… The single pocket sleeves look great. I haven’t been able to try them yet but will. But your system for gatefold albums seems far too complicated. Why not use a simple gatefold sleeve? I had to lie down in a darkened room and seek therapy as you moved onto the triple sleeve demonstration. Wow. I’ve spent the last year or so rediscovering my vinyl and trying a variety of sleeves. It’s been fun if a kind of madness. 😂 Vinyl Solutions single pocket sleeves would seem to be the best solution for normal albums. No doubt expensive but certainly worth it for important LPs. I’ll find another way to deal with gatefolds though. Look forward to your next video.
What happened to the days when we used to skin up on the p/s😊
Very helpful. Similar videos would be very welcomed addition to your channel. 👍🏻
Has anyone cracked how to protect double LPs that come in a single outer jacket?
Over sealing too tight can result in molds.
No nailing them to walls then
The outer sleeves remind me of the plastic covering my mother used to use on couches. I hated those and vowed never to use them. I feel the same way about outer sleeves. As long as you don’t pack your records too tight, don’t pour coffee on them, or handle them with dirty hands, they should be fine. Without outer sleeves it’s much easier to read the spines. And there are no flaps to deal with when removing the records. I didn’t buy these records as an investment; I bought them to listen to. In terms of caring what happens to them when I’m gone- it doesn’t concern me at all. No one’s going to make a fortune selling my 4,000 records. Everything in this world is ephemeral. I expect many to disagree. Feel free to give me a thumbs down…
I had an aunt that used those plastic covers on her living room furniture, she had them on her car seats too. I also hated them. And if I sat on my records I'd agree with you. But I don't so I use VSS sleeves. I like the idea of storing the vinyl with no paper near it to minimize dust particles. I don't do it because of the resale, when that happens I'll be dead and will no longer exist to care what happens. I do it because I want them preserved for me.
Regarding the spines, VSS sleeves only have seams on 2 sides instead of 3, the lack of a seam along the spine makes reading them a lot easier than conventional plastic sleeves. This is especially true with gatefolds where the plastic is flush to the jacket.
You are of course free to do whatever you want with your records.
“ And if I sat on my records I'd agree with you.”
Funny! No I don’t sit on my records, at least not consciously. I started collecting about 20 years ago both new and used records. I don’t pack my records too tightly, I stand them upright, they’re in a controlled temperature room and they’re handled carefully. Most look absolutely fine. I try to avoid touching them if my fingers are covered with peanut butter, chocolate, ketchup, etc.
Many of us in the vinyl community tend to be excessively anal. I qualify in some respects. I clean most of my records and put them in new inner sleeves. That’s about as far as I’m willing to go as far as the obsessive parts of this hobby.
There’s too much plastic in this world! I like to let my records breathe!
Nothing as bad as the carpet covers on the toilet seat lids, so thick that the lid won't "stand" and falls down while you're taking a leak.
That’s why it’s likely they were designed by a woman! How inconsiderate! How inconvenient! How purposeless!
Yes, I don't get outer sleeves either. Why should I put beautiful and colorfull cardboard in ugly plastic sleeves? The oldest records I bought new are now 20 years old and they still look absolutely fine. Of course I replace paper innersleeves with polylined sleeves, that's important in my opinion. But here I also prefer the white ones...
There’s only one way to keep your records in Mint condition: never play them.
Audiophile you say? 😉
Rice, paper, rice, paper, rice paper the only way to go with record sleeves, rice paper..... Don’t complicate anything rice paper sleeves. Period
One simple thing I highly recommend is to handle the records by the label and edges only. I see some so called experts on best sounding pressings (not you!) putting their fingers on the playing surface. Makes me cringe every time I see it. Skin oils are no good for vinyl. All the poly-lined record sleeves in the world will not save poor record handling!
I will add quickly you might not want to start a record care video “from scratch” 😂.
A Record ist not Made for a Museum. Is made for using it. So, hear it, use it and enjoy it.
How to save it? Solution is simple.
Buy twice ;)
And another promotional video (actually, a promotional video that is interrupted by promotional videos 🤔) Of course, there's nothing wrong with wanting to make money from CZcams. As an independent authority, however, you may then fail. It would have been nice if the channel was really about music again, maybe with a touch of objective (and since it's about music, also subjective) criticism. Instead, it just keeps monetizing. But you could have guessed that early on. What true music fan promotes buying vinyl on Amazon (to make money off it)? And wasn't this voucher thing for the shop already the tip of the iceberg. A really outdated sales trick. ECM will definitely appear in the shop soon 🤣 Service is a fine thing. However, infomercials should also be marked as such. And as always: just my 2 cents.
PS: This whole packaging madness has already been explained in detail on this channel.