Question: When you all buy a new album now meaning the 180gm releases or reissues...does the vinyl not look smooth to you. I notice that they vinyl grooves are patchy or spotty even after a good cleaning. Is it because of the vinyl that's used. The sound is excellent etc...but when you look at it closely it doesn't seem as smooth as vinyl purchase from the past. Still I love buying them regardless.

I have noticed "defects", perhaps more than back in the day when all we could buy was vinyl.

Defects such as not cleanly cut spindle holes, making the record to not sit flat on the platter.

And, rough edges all around the record, ooh!

BTW, I thought the 180gm "virgin" vinyl meant not-used vinyl?

mostly posting to say - it is weird that you both have guys with their arms crossed in your avatar.

haven't purchased new rock vinyl in at least 7 years, but wow that stuff's expensive. i recall 10 years ago when 180 gram stuff would come out and it was half (or less, tom waits re-issues are $24) than the prices now.

I was having a bad manicure day...

ah, that explains it.