Expert: James Michael Anderson - 6/10/2007

Question
Hi James,

I've been surfing Ebay during this Pepper anniversary period, trying to score
the best possible original pressing I can afford. I find myself struggling to
decide between bidding on NM versions of the original Capitol stereo
pressing (inner sleeve and cutout included), or going after a Parlophone
pressing, typically the more expensive choice. My question is, which of these
is the better investment for me to make as a collector? I already have a
reissue copy of Pepper that I love to listen to, I just want to acquire an
original copy to add to my collection. Thanks!

Doug
Washington, DC

Answer
This is tough one as it is as much about personal preference as anything else.  Typically, the Parlophone would be a better investment.  However, for Sgt. Pepper, the best would be the Parlaphone in MONO rather than Stereo.  That was considered the definitive version according to the Beatles.  There are slight variations in the mixes on several of the songs.