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I recently discovered a counterfeit, also known as pirated vinyl records, which I bought from an online store. This post will help you understand pirated Chinese vinyl records in Malaysia. I got the Taiwanese Mandopop LP from Shopee for RM160. This experience taught me valuable lessons about spotting counterfeit records in Malaysia or any other countries, which I’m sharing to help you avoid the same mistake.
I’m shocked, embarrassed, and furious that I ended up with a pirated vinyl LP! The sound quality is worst than streaming music on Spotify.
I was trying to look deeper for the Chinese record label company on the record cover but it seems fruitless. I was curious about the relatively low price of a famous Taiwanese singer’s compilation album and could not find an official release, but I took the bait.
These fakes can be hard to spot online, especially the inner design or record inner label, so identifying them is essential, especially when dealing with records from certain regions where counterfeiting is more common.
Why Are There Counterfeit / Pirated Vinyl Records?
Pirated vinyl records exist because there’s money to be made. As more people look for rare records, scammers try to cash in by creating and selling counterfeit copies. These fakes can range from bad imitations to near-perfect replicas, making it challenging for even seasoned collectors to tell the difference.
How to Spot a Counterfeit Vinyl Records
Even though spotting a counterfeit vinyl record can be tricky, there are some clear signs you can look out for. Here’s what to keep an eye on:
1. The Price Seems Too Low
If a record is priced way lower than it usually sells for, it might be a counterfeit or pirated. Rare records or limited edition vinyl records often cost a lot, so be careful if you see one sold at a suspiciously low price. Always check the vinyl record’s typical market value before buying.
2. Bad Packaging Quality
Genuine records usually come in high-quality packaging. The cover art should be clear and sharp, and the text should be easy to read. If the images look blurry, the text is off-center, or there are spelling mistakes, the vinyl record could be counterfeit. Also, pay attention to the materials used—originals feel sturdy, while fakes might feel cheap and flimsy.
3. Incorrect Labels and Numbers
The labels on the Record itself are important. Genuine vinyl records have labels that match the album’s official release information, including the catalog number and label design. Counterfeit records often have incorrect or missing information on the labels. Another clue is the matrix number etched into the inner groove of the vinyl record. This number identifies the pressing of the vinyl record. If the matrix number is poorly etched or doesn’t match the official records, it’s likely a fake.
4. Poor Sound Quality Pirated Vinyl Records
Counterfeit records often don’t sound as good as the real ones and it’s HORRIBLE. They might be made from lower-quality materials and not pressed properly, leading to muffled, distorted, or noisy playback. If a record sounds off, it could be a sign that it’s not authentic.
5. Fake Limited Edition Marks
Many rare records have special marks, stickers, or inserts showing limited editions. Counterfeiters try to copy these, but they often get it wrong. Look closely at these marks for font, placement, or design inconsistencies. If something looks off, it might be a fake.
6. Weight and Feel of the Pirated Record
Authentic vinyl records usually feel solid and have a certain weight to them. Fakes might feel lighter or flimsier. The quality of the vinyl can also be different—counterfeit records might be made from cheaper materials and could warp or break more easily.
7. Check the Seller's Reputation
Always consider who you’re buying from. Trusted sellers with good reviews are less likely to sell fake records. Be cautious if the seller has limited feedback or is unwilling to provide detailed photos.
Special Warning: Chinese Vinyl Records
In recent years, collectors have noticed that many counterfeit or pirated vinyl records originate from China. While not all records from China are fakes, it’s an area where counterfeit production has been more prevalent. Here are some specific details to watch for when buying vinyl records, particularly from sellers selling Chinese vinyl records based in Malaysia:
1. Overly Glossy or Dull Covers
Many counterfeit records from China have covers that don’t look right. They might be overly glossy, almost like they’re laminated, or they could be too dull and lack the vibrant colors of an original. This is often due to the use of low-quality printing techniques.
2. Heavy Use of Shrink Wrap
While shrink wrap is joint for sealing records, some Chinese counterfeit records are overly shrink-wrapped with thick, stiff plastic. This can sometimes cause the record cover to dampen or feel unusually tight.
3. Odd or Misleading Label Information
Counterfeit records might include odd label details, like incorrect barcodes or catalog numbers. Some might even use logos from well-known or random labels in ways that don’t match the original releases. Always compare these details with known authentic versions.
4. Misspelled Titles and Artist Names
Misspellings are a common giveaway. Check the vinyl record’s title, track listing, and artist names carefully. Chinese counterfeits sometimes have subtle errors in these areas that you wouldn’t find on a genuine release. E.g genuine album is Love! but on the pirated version is Love.
5. Suspect Vinyl Color
Some counterfeit records from China are pressed on vinyl colors that don’t match the original release. For example, if the vinyl was originally only available on black vinyl, but the one you’re looking at is a colored variant, it could be a fake. Double-check the official releases to know what colors were made.
6. Inconsistent Shipping Details
If you’re ordering online from a seller based in China, pay attention to the shipping details. Counterfeit sellers often have vague or inconsistent shipping policies. Be cautious if the seller is vague about where the item comes from or uses multiple shipping locations without clear explanations.
How to Use Discogs to Spot Counterfeit / Pirated Vinyl Records
Discogs are essential for vinyl collectors, especially when avoiding pirated vinyl records. Here’s how you can use it to spot fakes:
1. Search for the Vinyl Record
Start by searching for the specific record you’re interested in on Discogs. You’ll find a list of all known versions, including different pressings, reissues, and even unofficial releases.
2. Compare Details
Once you’ve found the exact version of the vinyl record, compare all the details with the one you want. Check the catalog number, label information, matrix numbers, and cover art. Discogs usually have images that you can use to verify these details.
3. Look for Unofficial Releases
Pay close attention to any mentions of “Unofficial Release” on Discogs. The artist or the label did not authorize these records, often counterfeit or bootlegs. Discog users frequently note when a release is unofficial, so check the comments section for any warnings or details about fakes.
4. Review Seller Information
Review the seller’s information and feedback if buying from Discogs Marketplace. Sellers with high ratings and detailed descriptions are generally more trustworthy. Be wary of sellers with low ratings or vague descriptions.
5. Check for Missing Information
Counterfeit and pirated records often lack detailed information. If the vinyl LP you’re considering has incomplete details or the seller can’t provide more information when asked, it might be a fake. Always ask for more photos and details if something seems off.
6. Use the Discogs Community
The Discogs community is a great resource. If you’re unsure about a record, you can ask in the forums or check existing threads for advice from more experienced collectors. They often share tips and personal experiences with identifying counterfeit records.
7. Don't Buy If You Can't Find the Variant
If you can’t find the variant or design of the vinyl record in the artist’s discography, please do not buy it! This is a major red flag. The artist’s official releases should match what you’re looking at. If no record of that version exists, it’s likely a counterfeit and fake.
identifying A Counterfeit & Pirated Vinyl Record By Search Music Label
When identifying a counterfeit vinyl record, whether it’s English, Cantopop or Mandopop vinyl, one useful tip is to verify the record label. Here’s how you can do it:
Compare the Record Label on Discogs: Discogs is an excellent resource for comparing the details of your vinyl record. You can look up the exact release and examine the label design, catalog number, and other specifics listed there. If your record’s label differs in any way from what’s shown on Discogs, such as in design, color, or text, it could be a sign that your record is a counterfeit.
Use Google to Research the Music Label Company: Sometimes, counterfeit records might include incorrect or outdated information about the music label. A quick Google search can help you verify the legitimacy of the label. Look for the official website of the music label, and check if the label design and details on your record match those used by the company. Additionally, researching the history of the label might reveal if it’s still operational or if there have been any reported issues with counterfeit records associated with that label.
By combining these two methods, you can get a clearer picture of whether your vinyl record is authentic or a counterfeit.
Final Thoughts
Collecting vinyl records can be fun and rewarding, but caution is important. Pirated vinyl records are often sold at lower prices, and they’re usually easier to spot when limited information about the vinyl record is available, such as unknown manufacturers or suspicious record labels. Based on experience, counterfeit records tend to have low sound quality, with lots of distortion, muddiness, and surface noise.
Tips: You can compare the record label company from Discogs and use Google to find out the music label company. Always keep away from anything that mentioned Unofficial Release.
These flaws are common because fake records are usually made from cheaper materials and pressed poorly. A quick online search or checking a database like Discogs can help verify the Record’s authenticity, especially by checking for unofficial releases or inconsistencies in the details.
By knowing what to look for and taking your time before making a purchase, you can avoid counterfeit records and build a collection of genuine vinyl you’ll enjoy for years and don’t fall victim the same as me. Happy collecting!
