Bad Omens has built a loyal fanbase with their distinct sound, and for vinyl collectors, owning a genuine pressing of their albums is a must. However, with the rise of counterfeit records, ensuring authenticity is more important than ever. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a new fan looking for your first Bad Omens vinyl, here’s how to verify that you’re getting the real deal.
Purchase from Official or Trusted Retailers
The best way to ensure authenticity is to buy directly from trusted retailers. This reduces the risk of receiving a counterfeit or low-quality bootleg pressing. Consider purchasing from:
- The official Bad Omens store – The band’s own website often sells exclusive editions.
- Major online retailers – Established sellers like Amazon, BrooklynVegan, and Revolver Magazine stock official releases.
- Independent record stores – Well-known local or online record stores typically source directly from labels.
For a reliable purchase, you can check out Bad Omens vinyl from a trusted music retailer.
Check for Limited Edition Releases
Bad Omens frequently releases limited edition vinyl, often featuring exclusive colors or artwork. Before buying, cross-check the details with:
- The official band website
- Record label announcements
- Collector sites like Discogs
If a seller claims to have a rare edition, verify its existence by checking these sources. Limited editions often have specific pressing numbers or unique features, so compare the details carefully.
Examine the Packaging and Artwork
One of the easiest ways to spot a fake vinyl is by looking at the packaging quality. Pay attention to:
- Cover artwork clarity – Genuine records have sharp, high-resolution images, while fakes may appear grainy or pixelated.
- Text and printing quality – Authentic vinyl will have precise printing without smudging or faded text.
- Stickers and serial numbers – Some releases include holographic stickers or unique serial numbers for verification.
Compare your vinyl to official product images online to spot any discrepancies.
Inspect the Vinyl Pressing and Label
The vinyl itself can reveal a lot about its authenticity. Key things to look for include:
- Label accuracy – Check for font differences, incorrect album titles, or missing logos.
- Catalogue numbers – Authentic records have specific catalogue numbers that match official pressings.
- Matrix runout markings – Look at the engraved numbers on the vinyl’s inner ring (runout groove) and compare with Discogs listings.
If anything seems off – from mismatched fonts to misaligned labels – it could be a fake.
Be Cautious of Third-Party Sellers
Buying from third-party sellers on platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or even Discogs requires extra caution. Before making a purchase:
- Check seller ratings and reviews – Look for positive feedback from past buyers.
- Ask for detailed photos – Request clear images of the front, back, and vinyl label.
- Avoid deals that seem too good to be true – If the price is suspiciously low, it might be a counterfeit.
Verify with Online Resources
There are several online resources to cross-check authenticity before making a purchase:
- Discogs – Search for the specific pressing to compare details.
- Vinyl collector forums – Sites like Reddit or dedicated vinyl groups can offer verification help.
- YouTube unboxing videos – Watching a real unboxing of the album can help identify differences in fakes.
Consider Sound Quality Differences
If you’ve already purchased a vinyl and suspect it’s fake, sound quality can be a giveaway. Bootleg pressings often have:
- Lower audio quality – Authentic vinyl has crisp, well-mastered sound, while fakes may sound muffled.
- Background noise or distortion – Poor pressings may have pops, skips, or uneven playback.
- Thinner or warped vinyl – Counterfeit records are often made from lower-quality materials.
Takeaways
Ensuring you have a genuine Bad Omens vinyl comes down to buying from reputable sources, checking artwork and pressing details, and using online resources for verification. By taking these steps, you can confidently add authentic records to your collection and enjoy the best possible sound quality.
