Todd Rundgren- A Wizard A True Star 1973 Test Pressing LP ******

$

500

Todd Rundgren- A Wizard A True Star 1973 ORIGINAL 1973 TEST PRESSING LP *EXTREMELY RARE*

Matrices read: K45513 A1 ’RAYS’ / K45513 B1

That makes it a UK test pressing, mastered by Ray Staff in London, England. Interestingly, the sleeve this came with is German - but then the inner is a period-correct UK sleeve with plastic lining. Possibly someone combined them later so as to not misplace this extremely rare unlabeled disc, regardless, this is how it came when I acquired it from a reputable UK seller, who only sells the cleanest, most obscure UK vinyl. Test pressings are always a mystery and near perfect, unusual ones line this often come from collections of mastering engineers, label execs or DJ’s who were active in the 60’s-70’s.

Disc is in EX+ to NM-condition. It has been well cared for and looks unplayed with just a few micro paper scratches, only visible if you really scrutinize under hard light. They have no effect on sound whatsoever. No bag rash from UK inner sleeve plastic. No funky tobacco or mildew smells. A beautiful sheen to surface (see pics). The streaks on the vinyl in a few pics are just reflections. Just a lovely disc. Plays quietly. Only one or two extremely minor pops at the beginnings of sides 1 and 2 that will most likely clear with an ultrasonic cleaning. Disc hasn't been cleaned, just surface dusted with a Music Hall carbon fiber brush.

The cover is in VG- condition with some minor edgewear and a few minor surface scratches.

This test pressing is one of the most full-bodied sounding versions of the AWATS lp I've come across. It rivals the Robert Sterling RL pressing white label promo copy and is possibly even better but this may be subject to taste and equipment used. Many of the mass produced general release copies of AWATS notoriously sounded thin because Rundgren squeezed so much music on each side. I think the mix on this test disc is slightly different than the final pressing. There is just more body to the sound and they are possibly are subtle differences in the levels of things here and there and I think it’s they are either still tinkering with the mastering EQ and level, or it could just be that it’s printed directly from the source tape or lacquers so it’s revealing more audio information. That said, there are so very few test pressings of AWATS that have ever turned up, if you love this album or want an ultimate gift for a Todd fan, don't miss out on an opportunity to own this amazing artifact. Bid with confidence. I am a 100% positive feedback ebayer since 2003. Shipped with USPS Priority Mail.