Unlike promotional pressings, acetates are far less likely to be distributed to radio stations and media people for advance airplay and review. Label information is usually typed or handwritten in blank spaces provided for those details as well as session or reference notes. For the most part, acetates find their way into the hands of collectors the same way as most manufacturing by-products do, passing from friends and relatives in the industry to fandom. Since the acetate is lathe-cut during the early stages of production, changes are often made before the final version of the track is completed. These are the ones most coveted by collectors.
Some acetates are worth more than their weight in gold.
Several dozen Beatles acetates, from the collection of their one-time manager, Brian Epstein, have been sold in recent years. New column usually appears on Sunday. Select a site from menu below and we'll transport you directly there.