How to Spot Fake Old Bollywood Vinyl Records
The market for vintage Bollywood vinyl records has grown significantly, with rare pressings of classic soundtracks fetching high prices among collectors. However, this demand has also led to an increase in counterfeit and reproduction records being sold as original vintage pressings. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or new to vinyl hunting, knowing how to identify genuine old Bollywood records is crucial to avoid costly mistakes. This guide provides expert tips to help you distinguish authentic vintage vinyl from fakes and reissues.
Why Fake Bollywood Vinyl Records Exist
With the resurgence of vinyl popularity, unscrupulous sellers often take advantage of collectors by:
- Selling modern reprints as original vintage pressings
- Creating counterfeit copies of rare records
- Mislabeling bootleg pressings as authentic
- Altering or forging original packaging
Records from legendary films like Pakeezah, Mera Naam Joker, and Guide are particularly vulnerable to counterfeiting due to their high value in the collector’s market.
Key Signs of an Authentic Vintage Bollywood Vinyl Record
1. Check the Label and Catalog Number
Every original vinyl record has a unique catalog number printed on its label. Research the correct numbering system for the original pressing:
- HMV (His Master’s Voice) used prefixes like ECSD, EALP, or 7EP for different formats.
- Polydor pressings have distinct numeric codes.
- Columbia labels feature specific design elements from different eras.
Red Flag: Mismatched catalog numbers, blurry text, or incorrect label designs indicate a fake.
2. Examine the Vinyl’s Physical Characteristics
Authentic vintage records have specific traits:
- Weight: Original LPs from the 1960s-70s are typically 120-180 grams.
- Grooves: Real vintage records have finely cut grooves; counterfeit ones may appear shallow or poorly defined.
- Matrix Numbers: Etched in the dead wax (the inner groove area), these should match the label’s catalog number.
Red Flag: Lightweight vinyl (under 100 grams) or missing matrix numbers suggest a reproduction.
3. Inspect the Cover and Printing Quality
Original Bollywood LP sleeves have distinct features:
- Printing Technique: Vintage covers used offset printing, resulting in slightly textured, high-quality images.
- Paper Quality: Older sleeves are thicker and often show natural aging (yellowing, minor wear).
- Spine Details: Original Indian pressings often have simple spines without barcodes (barcodes were introduced in the 1980s).
Red Flag: Glossy, pixelated, or digitally reprinted covers are signs of a fake.
4. Listen to the Sound Quality
Authentic vintage records have a warm, full-bodied analog sound with slight surface noise. Bootlegs often suffer from:
- Poor mastering (muffled or overly bright audio)
- Excessive crackling not consistent with normal wear
- Skipping or distortion due to low-quality pressing
Tip: Compare the sound to a known original or digital remaster to spot inconsistencies.
5. Verify the Year of Release
Many counterfeit records claim to be from the 1960s-70s but use modern materials. Check:
- The copyright date on the label and sleeve.
- Historical release data (Discogs and specialized Bollywood vinyl forums are helpful).
Red Flag: Records claiming to be from the 1950s-60s but made of vinyl (instead of shellac for 78 RPM) are likely fakes.
Common Types of Fake Bollywood Vinyl Records
1. Unofficial Reissues
Some sellers press unauthorized copies of rare records using digital sources instead of original masters. These may look convincing but lack the depth of authentic analog recordings.
2. Reproductions with Fake Aging
Fraudsters artificially age records using:
- Tea or coffee stains on sleeves
- Sandpaper scratches on vinyl
- Fake “dust” to mimic storage wear
Detection Tip: Aging should be natural—check for uneven wear patterns.
3. Misrepresented Pressings
A record may be a genuine vintage pressing but from a different country or later reissue. For example:
- A 1980s Russian pressing sold as a 1960s Indian original.
- A 1990s EMI reissue marketed as a first pressing.
Research Tip: Cross-reference label variations with online collector databases.
Where to Buy Authentic Vintage Bollywood Vinyl
To avoid fakes, purchase from reputable sources:
- Speciality Vinyl Stores: Mumbai’s The Revolver Club, Delhi’s Gramophone House.
- Trusted Online Sellers: Discogs (check seller ratings), eBay (look for detailed photos).
- Auction Houses: Sotheby’s, Christie’s (for high-value items).
- Vinyl Collector Communities: Facebook groups, Reddit forums (experienced collectors can verify authenticity).
What to Do If You Suspect a Fake
If you’ve purchased a questionable record:
- Request a Refund: Reputable sellers should accept returns for misrepresented items.
- Report the Seller: Flag counterfeit listings on platforms like eBay or Discogs.
- Get a Second Opinion: Post clear photos in collector groups for verification.
Final Thoughts: Protecting Your Collection
How to Spot Fake Old Bollywood Vinyl Records The market for vintage Bollywood vinyl is thriving, but it requires careful navigation. By learning to spot fake records—through label checks, sound tests, and sleeve inspections—you can build an authentic collection that honors India’s musical heritage. Always buy from trusted sellers, research thoroughly, and when in doubt, consult fellow collectors. Online Vinyl Shop is the Best store to buy bollywood vinyl records online at best prices also you can check reviews of onlinevinylshop on google map for your good.
