Led Zeppelin Vinyl Records

How to Shop for Led Zeppelin Vinyl Records

One of the most popular rock bands of all time when it comes to rock n' roll, Led Zeppelin's "Stairway to Heaven" is one of the most distinctive songs ever released. With a catalog that spans decades, spawning many popular albums, Led Zeppelin is, of course, one of the most popular bands when it comes to record and disc collecting. Whether you're a seasoned pro or if you're just starting out with collecting vinyl, there are a few tips and tricks to follow to help you get the most out of your collection.

What Is Condition Grading in Recording Collecting?

One of the most important things about collecting any rock vinyl is its condition. You can usually search for these terms as you're looking for different types of vinyl, and knowing what they mean can definitely help you understand what you're getting.

• Mint (M) - This record is so perfect, perhaps it's never even been played. In some cases, it may even still be sealed. However, record collectors also use SS to denote that the album is "Still Sealed."
• Near Mint (NM) - This disc was played a time or two, but it definitely wasn't a fan favorite of the original owner, and is still in near-perfect condition.
• Very Good and Very Good Plus (VG and VG+) - Both of these grades reflect the fact that your Led Zeppelin LP is still in great, playable shape. VG+ is just a notch below NM.
• Good and Good Plus (G and G+) - This pressing is in good, playable shape, and is worthy to be part of your collection. Most likely, it has aesthetic issues, such as the sleeve being ripped (or even missing).
• Fair and Poor (F and P) - You're definitely taking your chances with this record. It may have scratches on the vinyl that renders it unplayable, or it has serious condition issues. The sleeve may be missing, or the cover may be torn. A record in P condition may not even play.

What Are Different Types of Led Zeppelin Albums?

Now that you know what the gradings mean, you can start to collect Led Zeppelin records. Fan favorites are definitely some of the first albums you should choose for your collection. Not popular simply because of their rarity, they simply contain good music. Look for Led Zeppelin LPs:

• Led Zeppelin IV
• Led Zeppelin II
• Physical Graffiti
• Led Zeppelin III

When it comes to actual types of Led Zeppelin albums, most records are going to be 33 RPM; however, the band released some very popular singles, such as "Whole Lotta Love," "Celebration Day," and, of course, "Stairway to Heaven," all of which are available on 45. You will also find different types of Zep albums that are:

• Remasters or remastered original vinyl
• Reissues
• Alternate pressings
• Colored vinyl
• Picture albums
• Led Zeppelin box sets/compilations/collections

How Do I Find Rare Zeppelin Recordings?

As with many other artists, some of the oddest releases can be the rarest ones. However, with Led Zeppelin, many of their original releases on their original label (Atlantic) are the most collectible. If you're in search of other rare LPs, you can look for:

• Factory errors - For example, a Led Zeppelin III with a mistake on the cover is highly collectible
• Colored vinyl - Like the types of colored vinyl mentioned above, the band released several special editions of each of their studio albums, making them much more rare
• Promotional albums - The most rare recording is a promotional album of which only two copies exist