Import CD's--any advantage?

mmadden28

Other than remastered CDs out of Japan, is there any advantage to buying an Import CD vs a domestic one? Specifically quality, audio, liner notes, etc.

I'm looking at a CD (released 2010) that's available on Amazon, but also available through Amazon Marketplace as a Limited Edition Import (from Germany) for about $5 more. The Import was released only a month after the domestic so its not a remaster or anything of that sort.

vc69

Sometimes imports have a different track listing/extra tracks. As a collector, I sometimes buy imports for the sake of "completeness". As for SQ... sometimes there is a difference, mostly there is not.

mmadden28

Thanks VC.
Well Amazon raised the price on the domestic, soI ordered the import-What the heck right?

I'm still interested in any other comments/opinions on 'Import' CD's.

F1nut

For Japanese issues the packaging is usually top notch. The discs are a better quality as well.

Wade Spradley

I am into Japanese Anime CD soundtracks, and sometimes the only way to find stuff is through places like CD Japan(online). Also, most of these soundtracks are shorts runs that may be available for two or three years depending on how popular it is and the number produced. Reissues of CD's are generally available for longstanding anime. But are limited issues as well. The used CD market is usually a pretty good source there, and sometimes you can find out of print CDs for decent prices. But my experience is based on what I saw in early 1993 (before most of the online stuff now) before I arrived in Korea, having done leave en-route through Japan for 10 days, with a friend in the USMC. Traveling the subway, definitely an experience through Tokyo during rush hour, and of course the bullet train too.

You will also find with Special Japanese Sound Scores/Tracks CD issues, sometimes they are released in limited runs such as Raiders of the Lost Ark and other movie soundtracks with more music tracks that not available on the standard initial issue CD release you would find in the USA.

But most people do not realize the sticker shock of Japanese CD prices, which fluctuate to the value of the yen. The average general music CD price is usually around $30.00(USD), and on up depending on its issue, first/second run etc.... Older releases that are reissues generally will run about $20.00(USD). This is just a general overview. I have purchased other music such as Cheap Trick, from japanese vendors due to the non availability of certain albums that have not been printed in awhile.

If you look through ebay and amazon you will see that the Japanese are aware of the American collectors market for certain items and prices will reflect. But beware there are also false companies that will produce pirated CD materials, and will try to undercut prices to make quick profits. It happens in the Anime market quite a bit, on both DVD's and CDs. So its best to educate yourself, and know what you are getting yourself into.

Sorry for the long post. But this is a quick overview of my general experience.

Wade Spradley

Just a few more notes, first run Japanese music/soundtrack CD's/initial pressing (mainly Anime) will come with extra items. Also they are generally package with a Special album covers that normally would be changed when the second pressing is released after the sold out first issue. CD quality is first rate, on any issue of the CD.