The Vinyl Revival Faces a Quality Control Crisis: The Case for Polylined Inner Sleeves
The vinyl revival, which has gained significant traction in recent years, is facing a growing problem that threatens its momentum: the quality of modern vinyl records is being compromised by the cheap white inner paper and card sleeves used by manufacturers. These sleeves are leaving paper dust and surface marks on the records, resulting in scratches every time they are taken out for a spin.
Vinyl albums have seen a resurgence in popularity, particularly among younger demographics, with many new music fans starting to embrace the format. However, this issue with inner sleeves has the potential to deter these new enthusiasts from a lifetime of collecting records, ultimately stunting the growth of the vinyl market.
In an era where vinyl is increasingly becoming a luxury item due to its relatively high price, record companies should be looking to enhance the overall product quality. Sadly, the use of these cheap inner sleeves is doing the exact opposite, leading to more returns and consumer dissatisfaction.
The solution lies in the inclusion of polylined anti-static inner sleeves as a standard practice. These sleeves not only prevent paper dust and surface marks but also help preserve the records in their original condition for an extended period. Record companies can even leverage this value-add in their marketing efforts, positioning the use of polylined inner sleeves as a commitment to delivering high-quality products that stand the test of time.
Now Spinning Magazine has launched a campaign advocating for the inclusion of polylined inner sleeves in all new vinyl releases, and it is steadily gaining traction. The vinyl collecting community has expressed its frustration with this ongoing issue, with some collectors even considering halting new purchases due to the persistent decline in quality.
It is imperative for the music industry, and record companies in particular, to address this problem before it spirals out of control. Embracing polylined inner sleeves is not only an investment in the quality of their product, but also a show of commitment to their customers, who ultimately drive the growth of the vinyl market.
By adopting polylined inner sleeves as a standard practice, record companies have the opportunity to enhance the vinyl experience for both new and veteran collectors, ensuring that the vinyl revival continues to thrive. If this issue remains unaddressed, however, the resurgence of vinyl may be short-lived as music fans increasingly opt for alternative formats that better meet their expectations for quality and durability.
Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine
