What the term means
Pre-production discs used to evaluate audio and manufacturing. The term should be supported by label, catalog, matrix, packaging and provenance evidence rather than seller enthusiasm.
Identification checks
- Plant labels and matrices are essential.
- Handwriting should be documented, not assumed authoritative.
- Counterfeit or fabricated test-pressing claims exist.
Condition and market
Compare equivalent copies with the same pressing type, country, completeness and condition. A rare format can still have limited demand, and a later pressing can sometimes outperform an original because of sound, packaging or availability.