SAX 2569 TEST PRESSING Bruckner Symphony 4 KLEMPERER UK Columbia 1st Matrix RARE

$

199

ORIGINAL UK EMI / COLUMBIA FACTORY TEST PRESSING

BRUCKNER: SYMPHONY NO. 4 in E-FLAT MAJOR ("ROMANTIC")

OTTO KLEMPERER • THE PHILHARMONIA ORCHESTRA

ULTRA-RARE ARCHIVAL MASTERPIECE FROM THE GOLDEN AGE OF CLASSICAL STEREO

Overview

Up for auction is a premier holy grail artifact for serious classical vinyl collectors and audiophiles: an original, vintage UK factory test pressing of Anton Bruckner’s Symphony No. 4 in E-Flat Major ("Romantic"). This historic archival disc directly precedes the iconic 1965 commercial release of the highly sought-after catalog number SAX 2569.

Manufactured in strictly limited quantities at EMI’s historic Hayes plant for studio executives, producers, and audio engineers, factory test pressings of this caliber offer an uncompromised window into the original master tapes. Because these discs were struck from the freshest, earliest generation of stampers before mass commercial wear occurred, they deliver an incredibly deep soundstage, wide dynamic range, and stunning tonal clarity.

The Performance

This session captures legendary conductor Otto Klemperer leading the Philharmonia Orchestra at the absolute peak of their creative powers. Produced by the renowned Walter Legge, Klemperer’s interpretation of Bruckner’s 4th is universally celebrated by classical critics for its monumental structure, rich brass textures, and profound emotional weight.

Technical Specifics

• Country of Manufacture: United Kingdom (EMI Hayes Plant)

• Record Label: EMI / Columbia Records (UK) White Label / Factory Test Pressing

• Catalog / MPN Number: SAX 2569

• Format: 12" Heavyweight Vinyl LP, Stereo, 33 ⅓ RPM

• Producer: Walter Legge

• Audio Fidelity: High-Fidelity Audiophile Presentation

• Fidelity Level: Audiophile / High-Fidelity

• Run Time: Approx. 61 minutes

• Unit Quantity: 1 (Unit)

Definitive Matrix / Runout Information

The dead wax area confirms the earliest possible factory pressing ancestry, complete with authentic, internal studio-control hand etchings:

• Side A Matrix (Machine Stamped): SAX 2569 A - 1 - 1 - 2 (First Master Cut, Mother 1, Stamper 2)

• Side A Studio Etching (Hand-Engraved): Contains internal mastering studio control archive codes S P S 2 2 A

• Side B Matrix (Machine Stamped): SAX 2569 B - 01 - 01 - 1 (Absolute first master cut sequence from the Hayes plant configuration)

Condition & Grading

• The Vinyl: MINT (M)

• Visual Description: Inspected under a direct, intense light source. The vinyl surface is flawless, retaining its brilliant, high-gloss original factory black sheen. There are absolutely no paper scuffs, hairlines, or marks of any kind. An immaculate archival copy.

• The Labels: Genuine, blank white factory labels. In pristine condition with light production-era handling cues as shown in the high-resolution photos.

• The Sleeve: NEAR MINT (NM)

• Visual Description: Exceptional condition for a vintage studio artifact. The original white studio/library cardboard storage jacket is remarkably clean and rigid, showing virtually zero shelf wear. The original hand-lettered index card detailing the composer, catalog number, conductor, and orchestra is firmly attached and perfectly legible. No seam splits, tears, or significant age-toning.

Professional Shipping & Insurance Policy

Due to the extraordinary rarity, pristine condition, and significant value of this archival test pressing, it will receive premier white-glove packaging treatment:

• The vinyl will be carefully housed in a brand-new anti-static inner sleeve.

• The record will be safely shipped outside of the outer cardboard jacket to completely eliminate the risk of edge split or seam damage during transit.

• The entire package will be sandwiched between rigid cardboard flats and wrapped inside a heavy-duty, double-walled specialized vinyl box.

• Worldwide Shipping via Fully Tracked & Fully Insured Premium Priority Services only.

Bid with absolute confidence. Please review the high-resolution images provided and feel free to reach out with any technical or shipping inquiries.