Why You Should, Or Shouldn’t, Use Outer Sleeves With Your Vinyl Records

Vinyl records have experienced a remarkable resurgence in recent years, captivating music enthusiasts with their warm sound and nostalgic appeal, but care needs to be taken to ensure your treasured collection maintains its pristine condition. One useful accessory for safeguarding your treasured vinyl is the outer sleeve. In this article, we will explore why using vinyl outer sleeves are vital but also why you may choose not to use them.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF USING VINYL OUTER SLEEVES?

Protects against dust and dirt

Vinyl records, as well as their artwork, are incredibly susceptible to dust, dirt, and other contaminants. Outer sleeves act as an additional barrier, shielding your records from potential hazards. By storing your records in protective sleeves, you significantly reduce the risk of dust settling on not only the album artwork but the vinyl surface itself.

Preserves album artwork

Vinyl records often boast exquisite album artwork, which is an integral part of the overall aesthetic experience. Outer sleeves help to preserve the visual appeal of your record covers by preventing damage from handling, storage, and even accidental spills. Keeping your albums in outer sleeves can help to maintain the artwork's vibrant colours, thereby ensuring your collection remains visually captivating.

Minimizes ring wear and edge damage

Ring wear and edge damage are common issues that vinyl records can face due to improper storage. Ring wear occurs when vinyl records are stored without sleeves, causing the album cover to rub against the record next to it, resulting in circular marks. Outer sleeves provide a protective layer that prevents this friction and minimises the risk of ring wear. However, if you stack your records too tightly in your Kallax unit, or stack records in piles, ring wear can still occur. Additionally, outer sleeves can offer some protection to the easily bent and dinged edges of a record jacket, thereby reducing the chances of edge damage.

Facilitates easy handling and transportation

Vinyl records should always be handled with care to avoid accidental damage and no more is that true than when moving your records around. Whether you’re transporting your albums from your shelf to the turntable, or moving home, outer sleeves provide an additional step of protection that some people will value.

Enhances long-term durability

Vinyl records are precious artefacts that can last indefinitely if properly cared for and outer sleeves play a vital role in maintaining the long-term durability of your records. By shielding them from potential hazards, such as scratches, dust, and sunlight exposure, outer sleeves can help ensure your vinyl collection remains in pristine condition.

DO YOU HAVE ANY RECOMMENDATIONS FOR WHICH OUTER SLEEVES TO BUY?

When choosing outer sleeves, opt for high-quality polyethylene or polypropylene sleeves, as they are anti-static and provide excellent protection against dust and static buildup.

While I’ve had mixed experiences with known and reputable brands, forgive me for not recommending a specific brand to purchase. If possible, next time you’re at your local record store, have a look at the options they have for sale and if they sell outer sleeves individually, pick up a couple of different ones and give them a try for each sleeve is different and some may appeal to you while others may not.

Additionally, regularly inspect your outer sleeves for any signs of wear or damage as even the most reputable sleeves can wear over time or in some cases sweat your collection if you live in an area with fluctuating climates. If you notice any problems, replace them as soon as possible or when necessary in order to maintain continuous protection for your vinyl records.

WHAT ARE THE DISADVANTAGES OF USING VINYL OUTER SLEEVES?

While using outer sleeves with vinyl records is generally recommended for optimal protection and preservation, it's important to acknowledge that there might be certain scenarios where individuals may choose not to use outer sleeves. Here are a few potential reasons why someone might opt against using outer sleeves:

Accessibility for frequent use

If you frequently play your vinyl records and prefer quick and easy access to them, using outer sleeves might add a frustrating extra step in removing the record from its outer sleeve. Some collectors, such as myself, prioritise convenience over the added protection provided by outer sleeves.

Limited storage space

Outer sleeves, while rather thin, can slightly increase the overall thickness of a record, which may become a concern if you have limited storage space. In such cases, individuals may choose to maximise their storage capacity by opting not to use outer sleeves.

Display purposes

If you enjoy displaying your records, you may prefer to showcase the record covers without any additional sleeves. This approach allows for a more direct viewing experience that won’t detract from the album artwork and can be more aesthetically pleasing.

Budget constraints

While quality outer sleeves are reasonably affordable, the cost can become excessive if you have a large collection or are new to collecting. If budget constraints are a factor, some collectors may decide to invest in other aspects of their setup or collection.

It's essential to note that while there are pros and cons for the utilisation of vinyl outer sleeves, any decision should be considered, and respected, in the context of individual preferences and circumstances. Yes, it's generally advisable to use outer sleeves to protect and preserve vinyl records, as they offer significant advantages in maintaining longevity and the visual appeal of your collection, but I choose to no longer use them.

WHY I DON'T USE OUTER SLEEVES?

Throughout the years, I’ve been a staunch believer in outer sleeves for all the positives initially outweighed any negative aspects. It wasn’t until I was culling some records from my collection recently that I came across an intriguing aspect. All of my records were in mint condition. Like minty mint condition. I had been so overprotective that I realised I wasn’t enjoying the collection. I was preserving it. For what, for whom? I do not know.

Perhaps I wanted to retain the value in case I wanted to sell the collection. Still, that means that in the meantime, I wouldn’t be enjoying my records.

I know, I wanted them to be in pristine condition so that my children will inherit a magnificent record collection that they can thoroughly enjoy. Yet, I’m still not enjoying my collection, am I?

Records are meant to be played and the addition of a plastic sleeve makes the process even more cumbersome. Plus, who cares if a cover gets damaged? I know, I know, blaspheme! But seriously, if I can’t enjoy my records then why do I have them?

It was this thought process that spawned an experiment whereby I decided to take a small collection of cherished records and remove the outer sleeves. After so many years, it was a little disconcerting, but then over a series of weeks I started to appreciate the collection more and I even found myself spinning more vinyl due to the ease of access.

There is no denying that the spines look far better when displayed without the pesky outer sleeves and the thinner covers are now easier to find and read than they were before which, of course, adds to the appeal.

I also found that I can still look after my collection as I normally would. I would pull them in and out carefully and wouldn’t overpack a cube. So far nothing detrimental has occurred and even if it does, it will be my damage, my crease, my blemish and I’ll have the pleasure of knowing that I created a memory with an album that I love.

I soon came to think of my vinyl collection as a series of CD digipaks, only bigger. The problems that can occur with digipaks are worthy of an article on their own, but if you take care of your digipaks, they tend to hold up pretty well; certainly as well as any record without an outer sleeve. And, yes, I am well aware of CD outer sleeves but that is a whole other level of music-collecting care that I’m unwilling to entertain.

In conclusion, using outer sleeves with your vinyl records can effectively shield them against dust, dirt, and other potential hazards, thereby helping to protect album artwork, and minimise wear and tear. Whether or not you choose to use outer sleeves is a subjective preference and is yours alone. Yes, there are some lively discussions online about such topics, but you’d do yourself a favour by ignoring them and enjoying your record collection, your way, either with or without protective sleeves.

Why A Carbon Fibre Brush Is A Must-Own For All Vinyl Record Collectors

For many vinyl record collectors, the pursuit of perfect sound is a never-ending journey. From carefully selecting a high-quality turntable and speakers to meticulously curating one’s collection, every aspect of the vinyl experience is carefully considered and refined. However, the carbon fibre brush is one tool that is often overlooked but including one in your vinyl toolbox can make a significant difference to the sound quality of your records.

What Is A Carbon Fibre Brush?

A carbon fibre brush is a small tool designed to clean the surface of your vinyl records. It consists of a handle and a brush made from thousands of ultra-thin carbon fibres, which are densely packed together. When used correctly, a carbon fibre brush can remove dust and debris from the grooves of your records thereby reducing surface noise and improving the overall sound quality of your records.

Why Is A Carbon Fibre Brush Necessary?

Like it or not, vinyl records are extremely sensitive to dust and debris. Every time you play a record, dust and other particles accumulate on the surface and in the grooves of the record. Over time, this build-up can cause unwanted surface noise. A carbon fibre brush is designed to gently remove debris and prevent it from accumulating on both the record and your turntable’s stylus. The result is usually perceptible in that it can improve the sound quality of your records by reducing unwanted pops and clicks as well as reducing static.

When dust and debris accumulate in the grooves of a record, it can interfere with the stylus' ability to accurately track the grooves, resulting in additional surface noise and distortion. By using a carbon fibre brush to remove debris, you can ensure that your stylus can accurately track the grooves, resulting in a cleaner and more detailed sound.

Don’t get me wrong, using a carbon fibre brush isn’t the final word in keeping your record collection clean, but it is your first line of defence when playing the records that make up your cherished collection. By regularly cleaning your records with a carbon fibre brush, you can ensure that they remain in excellent condition for years to come.

How Do You Use A Carbon Fibre Brush?

While there are no hard and fast rules pertaining to correct usage, and everyone will have their own method, here's a step-by-step guide on how I use a carbon fibre brush when playing my vinyl records:

Step 1: Remove the record from its sleeve and place it on the spindle on the turntable.

Step 2: Get the record spinning; but don’t drop the needle just yet.

Step 3: Hold the carbon fibre brush by its handle and gently place the brush on the record surface. Be sure to hold the brush perpendicular to the surface to ensure that the fibres get into the grooves.

It's important to note that you should never apply too much pressure when using a carbon fibre brush on a vinyl record. Excessive pressure can damage the record and push debris further into the grooves resulting in distortion or skipping.

Step 4: Allow the record to spin for approximately three rotations then gently move the carbon fibre brush to the edge of the record and off the turntable’s platter. Check the brush for any dust or debris that has been collected. You can use a soft cloth or your fingers to gently remove any debris from the brush, but I’ve found that flicking it (away from the record, of course) against the brush’s handle is usually all that is needed to keep the brush clean.

Step 5: Play Side A of the record and then when it’s time to flip it over, repeat the process for Side B.

Does It Matter Which Carbon Fibre Brush I Buy?

When selecting a carbon fibre brush, it's important to consider the quality of the brush and the materials used to make it as not all brushes are created equal. A high-quality carbon fibre brush will have a dense array of carbon fibres, which are thin enough to get into the grooves of the record and remove debris effectively. The handle should also be sturdy and comfortable to hold, and the brush should be easy to clean and maintain.

Do You Have A Recommendation For Which Carbon Fibre Brush I Should Buy?

I can only speak from personal experience and can subsequently recommend Project’s Brush It as Project’s vinyl cleaning accessories have yet to let me down. There are, however, plenty of notable alternatives and it’s recommended that you go for a known brand rather than the many generic options available. Your turntable manufacturer or dealer should be able to help you choose a carbon fibre brush that will last you for years; provided you look after it, of course!

While a carbon fibre brush may seem like a small investment, it can make a significant difference in the quality of your vinyl listening experience. By using a carbon fibre brush to clean your records regularly, you can ensure that they remain in excellent condition and that you're getting the most out of your turntable, speakers, and most importantly, your record collection.

Moreover, taking care of your vinyl collection with a carbon fibre brush can save you money in the long run. If you neglect to clean your records properly, you may find that you need to replace them more frequently due to wear and tear and the build-up of dust and debris on your stylus will also lessen its life. Plus, who doesn’t like a nice clean surface; it just makes the experience that much more enjoyable, doesn’t it?

In conclusion, a carbon fibre brush is a must-have tool for all vinyl record collectors. It offers a range of benefits, from improving the sound quality of your records to extending their lifespan and results in a more satisfying and rewarding vinyl listening experience.