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 Here is a list of Frequently Asked Questions. Click on the
questions below to read the answers. If you have a question not listed here, you can post a message on our
Forum or contact us directly.
1. What is a CD-R acetate?
2. What is a Digipak?
3. What is an OBI strip?
4. How can you tell a Japanese promo and retail release apart?
5. What is a matrix number?
6. Where can I buy the items on this site?
7. How are the rarity ratings calculated?
1. What is a CD-R acetate?
These CDs are not factory pressed, but burned, much in the same way as you would write to a CD using a CD writer.
Because of this, they can come in a variety of colours and do not require any special CD player to use. These are
generally produced in very limited quantities.
2. What is a Digipak?
A Digipak is a type of CD case which can vary in size, but is usually the same size as a regular plastic CD case.
The front and back covers of the case are made of card instead of plastic.
3. What is an OBI strip?
An OBI strip is a small strip of paper containing release information which comes wrapped around the side of
certain CDs, usually those from Japan. They usually wrap around the spine and cover a portion of the front and back. |
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| OBI strip on left side |
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4. How can you tell a Japanese promo and retail release apart?
Japanese promo releases usually have a numbered sticker on the packaging, often on the back. The inner ring of the
CD itself is in most cases is engraved with the text 'Promo - Not for Sale' (or similar) in either Japanese or English.
There are exceptions to these rules, and they do not necessarily always apply to Japanese promo-only items.
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| Promo sticker |
Inner ring of CD |
5. What is a matrix number?
The matrix number of a CD, DVD or piece of vinyl is a series of characters that is located on the inner ring. On
a CD or DVD it can sometimes only be seen by holding the disc up to light. The matrix number of a release can be very
useful for identifying specific editions or pressings.
The matrix numbers shown in the item descriptions on this site are for illustrative purposes only. They can vary
slightly depending upon when the item was produced.
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| The matrix number of a CD |
6. Where can I buy the items on this site?
The items on this site vary in rarity and so this depends on the item you're after. A lot of the items can be
found in record stores, however you might need to look harder for the rarer items. In terms of buying online, we'd
recommend places like eil.com,
TokyoMusicJapan.com,
GEMM,
MusicStack,
netsoundsmusic.com, and of course
eBay. You can also try our
Forum.
7. How are the rarity ratings calculated?
The rarity ratings are calculated using flagged items. Users can create lists of items they have
or want by flagging them. You can read more about this in the profile area.
If you disagree with any ratings, why not start flagging items in your collection?
You might see some changes!
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