The Beatles Collection (BC13) Vinyl Box Set *FULL REVIEW*

In this long overdue reappraisal of this classic vinyl box set, we look at it's contents, worldwide variations and test it for sound quality up against the UK 1st pressing discs.
We'd love you to visit our website: www.parlograma...
or our 2 eBay stores:
Parlogram: www.ebay.co.uk...
Parlogram Store: www.ebay.co.uk....
or follow us on Facebook: / parlogram
If you like classic British cars, why not take a look at out other channel dedicated to our 1968 Rover P5b: / @tarabordeaux1968

[@JamesMurphyYT]

When I lost my business in 1990, I had to sell my record collection to help feed us. Although I made money on the sale of my blue box collection, it was like a part of me died. I've since bought all the albums on CD and again on vinyl, but I really miss that box set.

[@richardjordansongs]

Hi Andrew, I'm loving your videos, very informative and well presented. I wonder how many people splashing the cash for the BC13 box set back in the day would've been disappointed that they weren't purchasing the entire Beatles catalogue? You had the handy bonus LP of 'rarities' yet you weren't getting essentials such as Paperback Writer, Strawberry Fields Forever or Hey Jude! In order to get the full experience you still had to buy the red and blue albums AND the Magical Mystery Tour LP. Thankfully, this was rectified for the later box sets with the inclusion of the Past Masters compilation.

[@Parlogram]

Good point, Richard.

[@disneyfamily5158]

I'm am the brand new (as in this afternoon) owner of a BC13, UK set from '86 and it really is a treat! The -6 cut of Rubber Soul is nothing short of brilliant, as are all of the HM cuttings in this set. So glad I got it. Thanks for the review, Andrew!

[@Parlogram]

Congratulations and enjoy!

[@shakcohen4302]

I picked up a 1985 UK BFS recently - fantastic sound as you say. Having heard/owned most of the contents of this box I agree that this is the way to go. However, not all the later DMM and digital cuts that followed are bad. I like Revolver, WA, AR and LIB on DMM (nicer than the CD for some reason) and thought the 2012 Sgt. Pepper was excellent

[@grantsclassicsongs8122]

Great review, Andrew. I have the Australian gold leaf edition which I bought new in 1982. It is set no. 3722 of 4000. The box is a little worse for wear (the gold leaf tends to lift here and there) though the records are NM. Interestingly, the sleeve for Beatles For Sale is the unique Australian sleeve whilst the sleeve for With The Beatles is the standard UK sleeve (not sure why the Australian sleeve was not included). It was great to buy this set as a 19 year old and it has been a constant friend ever since.

[@jaesenjones]

EMI Australia adopted UK sleeve art for Please Please Me, With The Beatles and Beatles For Sale progressively in the early 1980s. The first two 'stuck' while the third, a nice gatefold Beatles For Sale sleeve, was dropped the same year it was introduced.

[@LevittownHS]

I had a paper route back then, and a local record distributor saved a box set for me until I paid it off! I still have it!!

[@zundap100]

Very nice presentation of BC13, thanks.👍

[@Parlogram]

Thank you, Dan!

[@mbvideoselection]

I even have a South African cassette blue box, the first four albums being on black and red inlayed cassettes and the rest except Rarities on gold top "EMI BRIGADIERS" tapes.

[@1987VCRProductions]

I bought a U.K. import of this box set a few years ago and it’s one of the crown jewels of my record collection.

[@Jeremy-yf2jd]

Great information and all round superb video. Taking the details one further please I have a question. In the USA I once saw the LP's individually shrink wrapped in an un-numbered "Parlophone" BC-13 blue box. The 'Rarities' album had "Not For Sale" across one corner. There were no corner 'import/union jack' stickers. There was a blue folded sheet with the albums and their tracks and it said "Made In Britain." So, are these UK pressed records, then probably shrink wrapped by an importer? I presume no BC-13 records were pressed in the USA? Thank you in advance Andrew so much! Cheers! :-)

[@Parlogram]

Glad you enjoyed the video! In answer to your question - yes, all US BC13s sold in the States were imported from the UK. The information sheet and shrinkwrapping was added by the importer which would have been JEM.

[@Jeremy-yf2jd]

@@Parlogram Wow! Thank you for your realtime reply Andrew! Very, very much appreciated! Have a good Austrian late night, or wherever you are. Cheers!

[@MsSteve70]

Superb video! Thank you.

[@bosskbounty]

Had this. Should have kept it. Came for Christmas when I was 17. Loved the set, played it continually. Best thing was I hadn't heard so many of the songs before. A great experience.

[@macdrummer007]

Definitely on my bucket list. By the way which versions of BC13 have the 'inner groove' from SPLHCB? I read not all do. If I do get one, I would like to think the one I had would have this.

[@federalisticnewyorkians4470]

If it’s good enough for Harry Moss it’s good enough for me

[@williampowell6067]

I’m curious regarding the matrix numbers for the NZ box. Because I can’t seem to find any place to reference. I was around 12 When I received the box as a gift. So it was before 1980. Here is an example. Matrix for With The Beatles is YEX447 R1. My previous post I stated 1980. Now I seem to think it was before...my box is not a flip top.

[@stuartshire]

Great stuff Andrew , any idea why the most recent stereo box was taken from Digital instead of Analogue ? Cost cutting ? ( forgive the pun )

[@Parlogram]

They probably thought nobody cared if it was digital or analogue. It would have cost more too.

[@TheHutt]

Thanks for the informative review! However, it would be more helpful to make a comparison with the original 1978 BC13, not the one from 1985.

[@Parlogram]

Agreed. But it was the only one I had access to at the time.

[@TheHutt]

@@Parlogram Yes... it really doesn't help that there were several issues of those. In Germany, if you got a BC13 box, you might have had a collection of then-current German pressings of the time ('78), or a set of Sweden-pressed records in German covers, or a set of unlabeled analogue DMM pressings ('85), or even a set of digital-sourced DMM pressings ('87)...

[@Parlogram]

@@TheHutt Yes, I've since discovered and had them all. Maybe I should do a video comparing all the German ones?!

[@TheHutt]

@@Parlogram Might be interesting. I actually made the work of compiling the German cuts (of the pre-digital era) on Stevehoffman. And am currently going through them in a series of shootouts. :)

[@daveeaglestone548]

Hi my beatles friend love the videos on the Beatles I am a big fan of there's I have the Beatles LP blue box set But wood you do a video on the Beatles RED mono box set form 1982 There is a video of the black mono box set please please do a video of it please Your video r fantastic my friend keep it up Dave.

[@Parlogram]

Thanks for watching, Dave. A video on the red mono box set is already in production and will be out soon.

[@rustykoehler2789]

I currently own rubber soul abby road and sgt peppers. On records revolver and let it be will be next. What else should I buy of theirs.

[@reuvengershon6625]

Everything

[@JustFortheRecord66]

All of them! And then the US Capitol albums!

[@williamtyler9123]

A few weeks ago I purchased a UK BC-13 from 1986. Do the mid 1980s boxes sound as good as the late 1970s boxes? I don’t have any pressings from those years to compare too. Any insight would be greatly appreciated.

[@Parlogram]

If they are all analogue cuttings, they should be just as good as the earlier discs. As digital cuttings didn't come in until 1987, you should be OK.

It seems like US version is better in sleeves quality (colors)...

[@JustFortheRecord66]

Those copies in the late 70s US BC13 boxes were simply earlier UK issues with laminated sleeves, which I personally prefer. I used to have the black mono BC10 box also, but sold that when the 2014 mono box came out, though I still have a full set of the ‘82 mono uK lps bought individually (and the Japan red vinyl set from that year). I sold a later BC13 set on eBay, to Curt Smith of TFF a few years ago, which I thought was cool!

[@chrissyman77]

Cds on vinyl is a gross oversimplified statement, the vinyl was cut from high res 24 bit 96 but yes I agree they could have done better, it's a shame they didn't use DSD like with the Rolling Stones as the job ABKCO did was outstanding, sounding far better than the originals.

[@reuvengershon6625]

I sold my 2012 stereo vinyl box set cos I didn't like the mixes. The vinyl was too quiet and less top end than originals. Bought the BC13 instead.

[@mikejeffries8630]

@@reuvengershon6625 But (with the exception of Help and Rubber Soul), the mixes are exactly the same.

[@reuvengershon6625]

@@mikejeffries8630 when I say mixes I meant mastering, which is very different.

[@mikejeffries8630]

They were cut from 24bit/44.1 Hz, not 96Hz.

[@mikejeffries8630]

@@reuvengershon6625 Actually, I did wonder if this is what you meant. Like you, I also sold my 2012 LPs because they were not as good as my late 70s pressings.

[@ldchappell1]

In 1978, John's last album was "Rock And Roll" from 1975. 75 to 80 was the period he took to raise his son, bake bread and smoke thai sticks.

[@acamaro5648]

The " Rarities " album included in my blue box collection has a " Not For Sale " on the corner. All the songs are in mono. The rest of the albums , including Please Please Me and With The Beatles are in "stereo". They are Parlaphone labeled.

[@lpquagmire3621]

For a box set that seemingly represents an opportunity for customers to complete their Beatles collection in one tidy purchase, it's interesting to note that MAGICAL MYSTERY TOUR is conspicuously absent. If this set is fashioned after the band's UK releases, then Britain's MAGICAL MYSTERY TOUR E.P. should have been included as well. It's exclusion unfortunately means that an otherwise complete assemblage of the group's discography is missing key tracks such as "Strawberry Field's Forever," "Penny Lane," and "I Am the Walrus," among others. Also missing in action is the "Lady Madonna" single, along with "I Feel Fine" and "I'm Down." How or why these oversights went undetected is one of the great mysteries of recorded sound...

[@SydneyDrums]

This entire box set is still missing nearly 50 Beatle songs

[@andyhowells2657]

i actually went out and bought Magical mystery Tour on LP shortly after buying this set. At this point I also had The Beatles 1967-70 and the Fame reissue of a Collection of Beatles Oldies (I didn't feel the Red album was great value for money as most of the songs I wanted on LP were on Oldies But Goldie's) - so asides from the original single verson of Love Me Do (which I won on the Heineken cassette - but that's another story!) I pretty much had all the recordings I wanted at that point!

[@jongerdemann2824]

I was inspired to pick up a Japanese version in exquisite condition at a good price. I still didn’t have all their albums on vinyl so this rounded up my collection.

[@anthonycraig1458]

I definitely have a soft spot for that Rarities album. I bought it in the early 80s when I was trying to collect every Beatles song as cheaply as possible using pocket money! It was a good way to fill in some gaps and although Past Masters superceded it, nowhere else do you get the random selection of You Know My Name sandwiched between two German songs! The running order of the songs is ingrained in my memory.

[@enricosanchez894]

I bought it thinking there'd at least be alternate takes. I guess I should've read the fine print before buying it.

[@markwinters3079]

I just bought a UK set off Discogs that is near-mint condition. I had originally bought one in 1984 but later gave it away in the early 1990s because I thought with the CDs the set would be an anachronism. Little did I realize at the time how good the set really was. Andrew, you are 100% right in how excellent these analogue disks sound. Thanks for the recommendation.

[@Parlogram]

Congratulations Mark!

[@davidaston5773]

@@Parlogram 2024! (imagine the voice over in your ivdeo when you do your year reviews). I am looking at someone who has one. In fact, he has several White Albums which are first pressings (and others) with errors and NO EMI? I've started collecting vinyl in the last 2 weeks, but, my interest in them was due to watching yourself and Vinyl Rewind? Some people may have rarities and never even be aware of them. I was amazed by how a ULTRA rare "Elvis Presley - Blue Moon of Kentucky" was £5,000? See, some people may see something worth A HUGE amount and think it's junk? Talk about ironic. Peace and love, David

[@acamaro5648]

I bought this blue box set in 1988 from a publishers clearing house mail order. Some of the album covers were slightly damaged like if the box was crushed on a corner. But the vinyls had no damage at all. They sounded amazing. First thing I did was to record all the albums into high bias cassettes using my Technics turntable and casette deck recorder. 32 years later those cassettes still sound amazing. And I've only played those vinyls 2 times. I still own the box set. Sometimes I've thought of selling the box set so someone else can enjoy them since I'm not getting any younger. And my son and daughter are not that into Beatles.

[@izmee6852]

Hey! You should upload them to KZbin somehow lol

[@acamaro5648]

@@izmee6852 the cassettes or the vinyl ? Or both lol....

[@macdrummer007]

Andrew, have you ever heard or seen of a counterfeit box for BC13? Do they exist? I have just seen image of the front cover of the box and John's signature pretty much touches the edge? The other signatures seem centered, so it looks odd? Never seen that before.

[@anton88ist]

The UK BC13 box from 1987 included some DMM pressings: "12 Sides of these records were cut by using the DMM (Direct Metal Mastering) technology sourced from the original analog master tapes" (www.discogs.com/de/The-Beatles-The-Beatles-Collection/release/4927821). And the 1987 German BC13 box included "12 LP's that had been direct metal mastered from a digitally re-mastered original tape to give the best possible sound quality" (www.discogs.com/de/The-Beatles-The-Beatles-Collection/release/5114961).

[@deusdedithkojiuchino9349]

I bought this box set of a guy,he told me as never hear the discs and was in good condition of use.This box was make it in Japan and all with Apple stamp,I found interesting so.The sound is clean and good.Perfect collection my guess.In 2009 the EMI remake that new remaster in this box,clean the sound,but in low frequence and I found lost of a few the power of sound,about this new version.So when I hear that box set,I don´t lost my money and make good business with the guy as sale for me the box.Uchino of Japan.Thank you.

[@deusdedithkojiuchino9349]

Really I liked this box set,the sound is clean and seen as was make it today these records.

[@carlosbaltazar6935]

I just got this one near mint for 400 usd. The vinyls have never been played. I'm thrilled to rediscover the discography through the collection.

[@ColumbariumS]

😮 I bought a house in Australia and I have a blue Australian version on my bookshelf. Very new. How much is this thing worth?

[@leovandenberg848]

Great video! I already have the albums 5 times so not buying this box. I do have the cassette box though. I really like the golden casstte box from australia!

[@georgeprice4212]

Got the 1980's edition in 1987 for my 18th birthday, just prior to the CD's being issued.

[@djgaryowens]

Very interesting again. Me being an original customer of this boxed set when it came out I felt like I had been mugged when I saw the "Rarities" LP being sold by itself a short time later after I had re bought albums that I already owned to get that one album which was nothing special at all. At least the USA version of "Rarities" was a little more adventurous than the UK one, after the 1980's began I went into the mysterious world of Beatles bootlegs.

[@williampowell6067]

I’ve been waiting for someone to finally post a review of this box. I bought mine in 1980 at Beverly Records in Chicago, and they are still at the same location. My set’s from New Zealand. My Rarities album has the gatefold with the Butcher cover. This album has always frustrated me! I have the other version as well. My Grandmother loved the Beatles and i remember fondly when she bought me the White Album in 1978 on white vinyl...thanks for the post!

[@Alex-ej3by]

I have one of these blue boxes I found in my dads loft wrapped up and unopened. How much is it worth now do you think?

[@PetePassolt]

I have a still sealed US box , numbered limited edition. Can’t bring myself to open it.

[@glen-scott]

Hi Andrew, I just wanted to say a big thank you for your amazingly informative Beatles-related videos. I bought a BC13 boxset on your recommendation, and it was delivered today. I've started listening to it and am absolutely delighted with the sound quality. It's saved me a lot of time (and possibly money, too) compared to buying each stereo album in a decent condition. I look forward to your future Beatles videos!

[@Parlogram]

Glad to have been of help, Glen. Spread the word!

[@KBTime]

Like you, I LOVED Rarities when I first discovered it... except I'm speaking of the American album of the same name. And I didn't hear it until 1992, when I was first learning about "rare" Beatles material. To that time, my only experience was with the 1988 CDs -- except for Past Masters, which we didn't have yet. So everything on the US Rarities was interesting to me (except "I'm Only Sleeping," which was the UK stereo mix). My only qualm with the U.S. version is that it did not include the five tracks which -- as of 1980 -- had only appeared on other Capitol/Apple compilations: A Hard Day's Night, From Me To You, Get Back (45 mix), Let It Be (45 mix) and I'm Down. Not exactly rare songs, but including them would have made the U.S. "Rarities" the true missing puzzle piece for a complete catalog on US vinyl (provided one bought the other 17 Capitol/Apple albums).

[@jeotts]

I also like that the gatefold is a pic from the 'Butcher' photo session in '66 :)

[@deerslayercowboywong]

We too got ours from Publsher's Clearing House in the `80's and only played each one once to record on cassette to listen to on a road trip from Michigan to Massachusetts. Totally awesome!

[@McMieke]

I have the New Zealand box set with a different Rarities album on the Capitol label.

[@bedlach]

I was hoping you'd mention the unique numbered US version, with a differently laid out box and Rarities lp. Over here, it's extremely sought after. Also, I'd love a sonic review of the Japanese box, which ignites heated debate in the forums I'm part of.

[@davidreckamp8161]

The earliest BC-13's album covers imported into the U.S. from the UK had laminated sleeves, but this obviously ended when EMI quit laminating the covers and went to the less desirable (read: cheaper) matte-finish.

[@ch-nw8df]

Hi, I’m just wondering if Palogram have reviewed The BC13 box from the Netherlands in 1985, I’m interested in a copy for sale, thanks for any information 👍🏻

[@Parlogram]

We reviewed the Dutch BC13 in this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bp7Ji3uHbadmp68si=2M5z390QXmsHrJCn

[@davidgangemi3314]

Hi,Andrew. I just bought a stunning mint 1982 Stereo Sgt Pepper with long matrix -1 and -3 . Harry Moss' initials appear on Side 2. This cut sounds quite exhilarating throughout the mix. The inner sleeve has a 347 printed at the bottom. Would this be from the 1981 BC13 box set? Perhaps the seller who commissioned it to the shop I bought it from had his info mixed up. It is a 2 box Parlophone. Would appreciate your help.

[@Parlogram]

It's unlikey its from 1981 set as long matrices didn't appear until 1983/4.

[@MarshGooch]

Despite all of your great videos regarding BC13 box sets, I haven't found anything regarding the USA version. It is a BC13 that appears to carry all UK pressings and covers except Rarities, which is the original US version you discussed in your video on the Rarities album. BUT what about the other albums? What pressings are they and therefore how do they rate against the UK and German box sets?

[@Parlogram]

Unfortunately, there has never been a U.S. equivalent of the BC13 set. For various reasons, the U.S. Capitol albums are sonically inferior to the UK and many European pressings. We have done numerous videos on many of the Capitol albums which you can view in this playlist: kzbin.info/aero/PLZczbX_Vy3bA-7lk7CHgQZ-MLcETcXb-R

[@patrickleahy9718]

Parlogram Auctions I’m looking at a UK blue box, a Japanese blue box and a US versions all around the $325-$380. I want to stick with the original UK covers BUT am considering the Japanese for the quality. If you had to choose between the two, which would you choose and why. Thanks

[@Parlogram]

Patrick, I'd go for the Japanese box, mainly because of the quality of the vinyl.

[@patrickleahy9718]

Parlogram Auctions Understood. Thank you

[@pauljames1586]

Hi Andrew! Does the long Matrix cut found on your 1985 ‘A Hard Days Night’ indicate a DMM pressing? Thank you!

[@MitchellHang]

As mentioned in the video, EMI didn't start using DMM until 1988, so the chances of the 1985 long-matrix cut on AHDN being DMM is certainly unlikely.

[@markhugill2415]

Mate I’m so glad I come across your channel and this video I’ve been after some good quality Beatles vinyl for a while now and today I’ve just my brand new never played box set off eBay the seller bought from elderly neighbour who’d had it in his collection from new, I’ve been incredibly lucky there can’t be many of these that’s never been played I couldn’t be happier, appreciate your content they’re so educational I don’t know what year it is but is it only your 1985 set that’s analog ?

[@Parlogram]

Congratulations Mark! All of these sets are 100% analog. They were discontinued when the CDs were released. Enjoy!

[@mbvideoselection]

I always got the impression that the copies for this box weren't prepared for this box, but were just whatever normal individual copies the local factory made at the time, and just whacked them in a box.

[@TheHutt]

Depends. The UK BC13 certainly were regular copies. German BC13 had new covers printed (with a special price code, 198 in 1978 and 064 in 1985). They also had White Album without title/number and without photos/poster (photos were combine to a separate poster).

[@patrickleahy9718]

What about the MFSL box set.? Wasn’t that made with the original analog tapes? Also, can you review that box set?

[@Parlogram]

MFSL did use the original masters but added quite a lot of EQ which made them sound...different. I will do a video on the box set when/if I get hold of one.

[@patrickleahy9718]

Parlogram Auctions I’m looking at a UK blue box & a Japanese blue box. I want to stick with the original UK covers BUT am considering the Japanese for the quality. If you had to choose between the two, which would you choose and why. Thanks

[@patrickleahy9718]

Parlogram Auctions I’m looking at a UK blue box, a Japanese blue box and a US versions all around the $325-$380. I want to stick with the original UK covers BUT am considering the Japanese for the quality. If you had to choose between the two, which would you choose and why. Thanks

[@elchichosantana6410]

I love London Town. Its a Celtic Rock to its finest.

[@georgeferns6482]

I have the SA release of this box set. Love it too bits…

[@sampoernaquatrain1710]

Thank you for this excellent video! I just picked up an unplayed, 100% complete Japanese box a few days ago, and it's one of the biggest scores I've made in a long, long time. A crown jewel of my collection that I will treasure!

[@Parlogram]

Enjoy!

[@TheApplecorped]

A great box set but I still love my mfsl box

[@camillabahiense9408]

I have the brazilian verson

[@jaesenjones]

EMI Australia released the gold box in 1984 as a delayed response to the set reaching gold status some four years earlier. The gold set lasted well into 1987 and was available in parallel to the blue set, which remained available until early 1989, just after the 'bread box' was released. It was during this time that one could buy a blue box with digital remastered pressings (except for Rarities, of course).

[@BeAGoodDoga]

That reminds me: I just recently bought the cassette version of the “bread box” set, but it’s missing a few tapes, & labels use left overs from mostly the 1981-82 reissues, except for Magical Mystery Tour & Let It Be, which use labels from 1986 & 1987 respectively.

[@daveeaglestone548]

Hello friend Can not what to see that video of the Beatles RED box Dave.

[@gustercc]

That’s the one I want to watch too

[@marty48]

My understanding was that they didn't cut the albums specially for this box, they just filled the boxes with existing stock in every country, so the quality can vary a lot. I have a strange one: the box and covers are German, but the records are Norwegian. Many of them sound very good, some are average and there are two or three duds.

[@TheHutt]

I know of a Swedish-German box (German covers, Swedish records), but it's the first time I hear about Norwegian copies!

[@marty48]

@@TheHutt That's the one I have, I wrote Norwegian instead of Swedish by mistake, sorry (I must have been listening to Rubber Soul too much lol)

[@TheHutt]

@@marty48 "Norwegian Blue! Beautiful plumage!" :) Sorry, could not resist.

[@PaulLea]

Hi Andrew, I bought my blue box in New Zealand in 1978 when I was 18. It cost about 70 dollars and thw box wasn't flip top and not fake leather texture either...but the biggest rip off was Sgt Pepper, it was not gatefold and had no cut out sheet, also the inner sleve was just plain white paper. Aparently thats how all Sgt Pepper LPs were from 67 to the Early 80s. I didn't get my hands on a decent gatefold Sgt Pepper until I moved to Australia in 1984. I really enjoy your clips...keep 'em coming !.

[@AlexKozhevnikov-f1w]

Hello! Thanks for the great content! I'm very glad I found your channel! Could you help me with a few questions? It will be from the UK-editions. 1. Records in Box-78 are records that were pressed between 1976-1978? 2. If yes, how was the box formation process? They took records from the shelves of factories, for example, 1976, printed an inner sleeves for it with a date like XX78, where XX is the packing date, and packed it in a Blue Box? 3. Or for Box-78 the records + inner sleeves were specially printed in 1978, and XX in the printed date means the month of printing of the record itself? 4. If there was a special print for Box-78 exactly in 1978, do these records differ from the regular editions of 1976,1977 in any way?

[@AverageJoeVinyl]

Hi Andrew! Any chance of a review of the Beatles CD Singles box set? I know you've done the various vinyl versions.

[@slowpawstevet3676]

Hi Andrew, on some of your videos you mention the Harry Moss stereo recuts of Beatles albums released around 1985/6 ( i tried the With The Beatles album recently and liked it a lot ), i think it would make and interesting comparison study to cover these one day? :-)

[@ubetucan2747]

G'day again Andrew, very happy to say that I have managed to find UK Blue Box, still in the process of listening to each record. It contains a mix of 1978 to 1980 pressings, and they sound great. When in the process looking for this set, I came across an empty Blue Box I couldn't identify. All the markings (writing, signatures, Cat # etc) to match a regular UK Box, except for the words "MADE IN ENGLAND" in uppercase text just below the Cat # on the RHS of the box. Can't say I have seen on before or since. Any idea of the year/version or the destination country? Cheers Dave

[@ubetucan2747]

G'day Andrew, thanks for another very informative video that answered most of my questions about this box set. Was there much colour variation in the the manufacture of the UK boxes between '78 to '86? In Australia, the first 2000 boxes were imported from the UK and filled with local pressings from Nov 78 to early April '79. From then on EMI Australia produced the boxes locally, with the main difference being a lift-off lid (instead of the UK Flip Top). Hoping to find a UK Box Set myself to compare with the Aussie versions. Nice to see some of the other versions from different countries too.

[@Parlogram]

G'day! The UK boxes were pretty consistent colourwise and were textured. UK sets are still plentiful but heavy to ship so I hope you can find one locally. Stay tuned for our next video which will all be about the original Australian albums. Cheers, Andrew.

[@ubetucan2747]

@@Parlogram Thanks for your reply. This will be interesting, as opinions on Aussie vinyl is often divided. I find some pressings approach being on par with UK originals, especially if imported UK mothers were used. Worldwide, EMI went to great lengths to standardise record producing equipment (Consoles, Lathes and Presses) as far as practicable. With a few tweaks of the available technology, EMI Australia Recording Engineers produced some great records in the 80's, the Sgt Pepper Audiophile press for example. Haven't heard a lot of the German DMM or Japanese pressings but they appear highly regarded from what I've read. As a child, the local radio stations played a mix of imported US and UK recordings as well as our local 45's. I find the "Dexterised" recordings vaguely familiar and re-assuring. Looking back I'm sure that sound is a reflection of the hype at that time.

[@jaroslavvrabel9713]

Super video. I have 2 boxes of Beatles BC13 + MMT, German 1978 + White album, page 3.4 label DMM + several other Beatles albums around 1985 and Italian 1982 ??? + MMT 1977. Quality approximately the same. Little+ for German pressing. They are better than MFSL and Japanese, the problem of treble and bass. Deviation from the original. The quality of the vinyl is excellent.

[@arthurhenderson2188]

The New Zealand box I got in 1981 had the original UK sleeves for both WITH THE BEATLES and BEATLES FOR SALE. Those peculiar Aussie sleeves were only ever seen here on import copies. The PLEASE PLEASE ME album you show as being part of the NZ box is actually Australian and I suspect the entire contents of that box is Australian. MAGICAL MYSTERY TOUR is visible and this was never part of the NZ box. Most of the LP's in the NZ box were laminated front and back, the exceptions being the White Album and PEPPER. The covers for these two were in a matt finish and looks like they'd been pulled from existing stocks. All covers and records were made in NZ though strangely, BEATLES FOR SALE and YELLOW SUBMARINE both have the NZ prefix of PCSM on the covers but the Australian prefix PCSO on the records. For a time, HMV/EMI NZ made a non-sensical move and replaced the British RARITIES album with the American RARITIES.

[@jpreza]

Awesome video mate! Recently treated myself to one of these blue boxes that I found at my local record shop here in Chicago. About a year and a half ago, they had one for $189 and I passed on it, mainly dismissed it because imo not having MMT included and missing most of the single tracks, I thought it was not a good buy. I've reconsidered it since after hearing good things about it. Prices have been going up and bought a 1986-87 edition (UPC on the back of the jackets, except for BFS) for $300. My question is: I heard you mentioned that DMM was not used for BC13, because EMI did not use DMM until this set was deleted. Discogs lists this 1986-87 set as being partially DMM, so I'm confused. Hopefully you can clarify. Thanks as always! 🍺🍻

[@atreju65]

How is it possible you can find copies in NM- or VG+ condition for less than €50,00 on e.g. Discogs? Thanks for answering, the noob.

[@QuinnTeal]

So a month ago I came across a blue box that was from New Zealand here in the states. It has the us rarities album instead of the rarities of the uk box any ideas why?

[@nigelcalvert536]

You're a mine of information on Beatles recordings that's for sure. I bought a UK BC13 about ten years ago. Most of them have liners with the date code on and are from various months in 1982 so it is quite a late one. Many of the matrix numbers are the same as the ones you showed, some a little earlier. I have the black stereo set and white mono set with on vinyl but I still play the BC13 ones a lot. I bought the blue Singles BSC1 and EP BEP14 sets as well to complete that collection. I always look out for your videos - hope you have many more to come!

[@elchichosantana6410]

I have the cassette box version here in the Philippines. It was distributed by our local Dyna Records back then. I still have it. The sound quality sucks

[@pauljames1586]

Hello, what was the 4th album you preferred from the BC13 box? I counted three: With The Beatles, Help!, and Rubber Soul.

[@youtubeviewer7030]

the beatles collection was issued in Australia in February 1979 at the price of $100 i had two choices The Beatles collection or the beatles box i chosed the latter as coast $70

[@reuvengershon6625]

I've got this. Fro ebay. Was hoping for the valve versions but I think I got the digital mixes from around 85. Green writing Apple label goes all the way round. I can give more details

[@binxboi7156]

Got lucky and score this set for $100. Seller said he’s had it for over 40 years and never spun it. It’s crisp.

[@starlasmith256]

I bought 4 sets of this from publishers clearing house in 1985 or so for 100.00 each. I gave 2 to good friends and kept 2 to record onto cassette tapes with. They play and sound like the originals.

[@Ad.Dd.James.]

I bought this set from a second hand record dealer in Tasmania for $400.00AUD in 2018. It’s all in VGC and I do think the business I bought it from had it marked down to low in price. These BC-13 Beatles vinyl boxsets are a rare find in a small independent record store these days.

[@daveeaglestone548]

Hi again can you do video of the Beatles please please me gold on black the rare stereo LP form 1963.

[@48musicfan]

I got my set while on vacation in Europe in 1979 with my family. I talked my mother into buying it for me as a Christmas gift when we visited a record store in Sweden. I had to be willing to carry it everywhere we went for a month...which I dutifully did. The other stipulation was once we got back home in Washington State my mother would put it up in the closet until Christmas. It was purchased in July.😳It seemed like an eternity.

[@mountainmanpicker]

Great video! New subscriber here and absolutely LOVE THE BEATLES!

[@Parlogram]

Thank you and welcome aboard!

[@frederickfranchi6408]

Let's just cut right to it, the mono box set from 2014 is the best!!! The 2009 box that is really good, and the Giles Martin remixes are also excellent those other presents to me don't hold up and I have sold them all!!! I can't comment on the original presents although many people who have them say they're the best so maybe they are🤔✌

[@enricosanchez894]

You listened to every track of every album twice? That sounds a little labor intensive.

[@Disappointed-dom]

I bought an empty box on eBay and put my Beatles capitol compilations from the 70s rock and roll music - love songs etc inside the box. I would love to have this set for collective purposes.

[@wininboy]

Another great video! Thank you very much for making these. Next up: a review of the new mono box! ;-) I'm also curious as to why you say that an all-analog release of the stereo lp's, much like they did the mono, is "almost zero"? Since we can all agree that the old MFSL set is a dud, The Beatles' stereo catalogue did not see a worthy "audiophile" release yet. Heck, they could even issue it on 45rpm lp's, why not? If any band deserves the full treatment, it's these boys, right? And if the success of the mono set is anything to go by, and the prices currently paid, the market seems ready for one, surely? Anyway, thanks again!

[@Parlogram]

Thanks, glad you enjoyed it. A review of the mono box is on my list. I really don't see an all analogue stereo set coming out. I don't think Apple believes the market for it is big enough, but we live in hope!

[@sebastianpiazza796]

Great job insightful and well researched thank you

[@AppleCorp3]

I was able to find an ‘85 set super cheap because the box was falling apart. It’s a great set, and I play these copies a lot, when I’m not willing to risk the originals my collection!

[@andyhowells2657]

i bought my set for around £85 in 1986 from my mother's mail order catalogue - I wasn't disappointed and admittedly they were all copied straight on to cassettes. There were a couple of scuffs on the tops of a couple of sleeves (and a pop on let It Be) but all in all it was an excellent set. A friend looked after it for me for a while but sadly scuffed the box a bit on the front. Still its not doing bad for nearly 40 years old and I still pull them out to play from time to time. Love the videos - you are covering aspects I often think about and your presentation is brilliant!

[@Parlogram]

Thank you kindly, Andy!

[@larsbecker4371]

Absolutely brilliant video - thank you!

[@richarddakin8343]

Andrew: When you received your stereo vinyl box set, as I recall from your segment about it, it would appear that you got an aftermarket package. It included a 2017 Sgt. Pepper remix album. Strange for a box set from 2012! We’re you able to get an original set, say from the EU?

[@Parlogram]

That's right, Richard. I bought it used on eBay.

[@TheHSIHP]

I just bought a bunch of these pressings individually from a local shop. They sound great! I'm super happy to have found them. Much better than my US pressings.

[@Parlogram]

Congratulations and enjoy!

[@jozefserf2024]

Who was this mysterious genius Harry Moss?

[@dimitriballas5283]

This video is "Another winner not from Ernie but from Parlogram Auctions"

[@andyjt11]

I'm looking to pick up all the Beatles albums in Analogue, someone is offering a Japanese box set (mint) for a good price. But I'm torn. Do I jump for the Japan issue, or hunt around for a UK one. I'm based in the Czech Republic, and the Japan box set looks like a real quality release, but people complain about the sound/tone. What do you think, do I jump and get the Japan issue?

[@Parlogram]

I'd recommend a German set over a Japanese one.

[@SuperUniverse2009]

what do you think about the italian edition

[@aapablaz]

Any mfsl box set video analysis?

[@ianz9916]

I just bought the 1985 BC13 set on eBay. The vinyl is near mint although the sleeves all have a bit of wear. I did notice that sellers are quoting you in their sales pitch. Maybe you should be asking them for a cut of the profits.

[@Parlogram]

Good idea, Ian!