Matrix stamper numbers

[jfine]

This is probably a long shot, but does anyone know if like a matrix stamper number chart from say, Capitol records, is available? For example by looking at a given run off number of

SKAO-406 - 1 - x5

versus

SKAO-406 - 1 - x3

I would assume the x3 is an earlier press, hence possibly a better sounding press because of the sound loss from each successive matrix stamp?

Another reason is it would be nice to know if you have gotten a first press or a fifth press if you knew first pressing matrix numbers.

I know there's a ton of info on collector beatle presses to figure out first pressings, but who figured that out and where is that info kept?

[chosenhandle]

If I were looking at that record, I would probably check the Goldmine reference guide to determine the catalog number for the first pressing. In this case, I would assume the SKAO-406 would be that number, although there are cases where that isnt true. The second number I would see as the laquer number, the third set I would read as mother/stamper number. In your case, the record is the first pressing, first stamper, "X" mother and 5th (or 3rd) stamper.

Each laquer is different and therefore, the first may not be the best. Case in point is the Magical Mystery Tour German HorZu, where the second is by far the best. The mother/stamper numbers usually are a lot better the lower they are.

Each record company has its own way of doing it and I think I learned from experience. I personally have never seen a complete "capitol" or "EMI" reference chart.

There is an RCA discography online, mainly for the classical records.

[trinescope]

From what I've been able to come up with from a few different sources, the last two digits (letter, number) on Capitol indicate the cutting lathe and the lacquer number. For example, F4 indicates the fourth lacquer from the "F" lathe (a Neumann). The most common lathe codes are E, F (Neumann), G, H (Scully), and Z (outside mastering). I don't know the other lathe codes.

[Jay Pemberton]

Look over on stevehoffman.tv. William Brown (handle 'W. B.') who has written books such as a Columbia Records singles discography, has many postings there explaining the Capitol matrix codes, which also indicate which studio did a particular cutting.

[trinescope]

That's where I got my info as well.

pressing plant initials