Why I stopped chasing brand‑new pressings

I've been on the vinyl grind for ages, but lately I realized every hype‑release binge is just a wallet‑drain. Everyone praises those shiny first‑presses like they're holy relics, but the truth: the sound quality difference is negligible, and the joy of ripping open a dust‑covered crate is real. I now hunt used bins, ignore the ‘pristine’ tag, and pay pennies for what used to be $40‑plus.

A few points:

• First‑press hype is a market scam. Labels pump up the rarity, collectors jump, then the hype fades.
• Used records often have better mastering. Lots of re‑issues get remastered, but the original pressing may sound richer.
• The joy of flipping a well‑worn sleeve beats that sterile sleeve with its glossy logo.
• Saves money for better gear (a solid tonearm, decent cartridge) – that actually improves playback.

I know this sounds sacrilegious to some, but the community's obsession with 'new pressings' feels more like status chasing than music love. I'd love to hear your thoughts— anyone else shifted to the second‑hand scene and felt the same?