US
1989- Label and catalog number
- Epic 49 68806
- Format
- 12", 33 ⅓ RPM
Vinyl pressings
by Flame Braithwaite · 1989
On The Strength was first pressed on vinyl in 1989. Every vinyl pressing is listed below with its label, catalog number and runout codes, so you can tell an original from a reissue.
8 pressings came out in 1989, the album's first year, in 3 countries. Compare the label and catalog number on your copy, then the codes etched or stamped in the runout groove (the dead wax around the label): they are the surest sign of an early pressing.
Not sure how to read the runout? See matrix numbers, runout and dead wax and how to tell a first pressing.
By decade, oldest first. Open a pressing for its full label, barcode and runout details.
| Year | Country | Label and catalog number | Format |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1989 | Australia | Epic 655238 7First year7" | 7" |
| 1989 | Australia | Epic 655238 6First year12" | 12" |
| 1989 | UK | Epic 655238 6First year12" | 12" |
| 1989 | UK | Epic 655238 6First year12", White Label | 12", White Label |
| 1989 | UK | Epic 655238 7First year7", 45 RPM, Single | 7", 45 RPM, Single |
| 1989 | US | Epic 49 68806First year12", 33 ⅓ RPM | 12", 33 ⅓ RPM |
| 1989 | US | Epic 34-68918First year7", 45 RPM, Promo · Promo | 7", 45 RPM, Promo · Promo |
| 1989 | US | Epic 34-68918First year7", 45 RPM | 7", 45 RPM |
| Year | Country | Label and catalog number | Format |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1990 | Europe | Epic 655238 77", 45 RPM | 7", 45 RPM |
| 1990 | Europe | Epic 655238 612", Maxi-Single | 12", Maxi-Single |
10 vinyl pressings of On The Strength are listed here, from 4 countries, released between 1989 and 1990.
The earliest pressings are from 1989, in US, UK, Australia. One of them is Epic 49 68806.
Check the catalog number on the label (first-year pressings use 49 68806, 34-68918, 655238 6, 655238 7) and the codes etched in the runout groove, then compare them with the pressings listed above. Later reissues often keep the catalog number but change the label design or the runout codes.
It depends on which pressing you have and on the condition of the record and its sleeve. Early pressings from the album's home country in near mint condition are usually worth the most; common later reissues are worth far less. Scan your copy with VinylLens to see its value for every grade.