The World’s First LPs–A Deep Dive into Columbia’s Groundbreaking ML 4000 and CL 6000 LP Series

Before June 21, 1948, the 78 RPM shellac records were the golden standard. They have their drawbacks though. They’re noisy, fragile and can only fit a 3-5 minutes of content on each side. For an artist to release a full album they would have to press multiple discs and include them in a book with multiple sleeves containing multiple discs, hence how ‘albums’ earned their name. Columbia Records came up with a solution though, an innovation so mind boggling, it would change the record industry forever. Enter the Vinyl LP. The LP standing for “Long Play” used specially engineered micro-grooves that enabled the artist to fit an entire album on one disc containing multiple tracks per side. Additionally, the LP featured much better frequency reproduction, they didn’t wear out as fast and they were touted to be unbreakable. They were light-weight and deserved a big launch. On June 21, 1948 at the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel, Columbia held a much anticipated press conference announcing their new technology that would completely disrupt the record industry.

When Columbia Records introduced the ML 4000 and CL 6000 series LPs, they were offering listeners unparalleled access to high-quality recordings of classical and popular music that they already had access to on 78 shellac recordings. These albums, with their innovative design, historical significance, and collectible appeal, continue to fascinate audiophiles and vinyl collectors today. Let’s explore these iconic series, their standout releases, and the nuances that make early pressings so special. Columbia announced the introduction of the ML 4000 their 12″ offering with classical being the music of choice while the CL 6000 series was their 10″ offering with jazz and vocal titles making the cut.

We will dive in to each series to learn what makes each of them special and which titles you may want to look out for to add to your collection.

The ML 4000 Series: The Dawn of the 12-Inch LP

The ML 4000 series represented Columbia’s classical music showcase for the newly introduced LP format. Its larger 12-inch size and 33 1/3 RPM speed allowed extended playtimes, perfect for classical works that previously required multiple 78 RPM discs.

The First LP: ML 4001

The series launched with ML 4001, featuring Nathan Milstein performing Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto in E Minor, with Bruno Walter conducting the Philharmonic-Symphony Orchestra of New York. This wasn’t just a record—it was a statement. ML 4001 demonstrated the LP format’s ability to present complete works with unmatched clarity and fidelity, a breakthrough for classical music lovers.

Some Key Releases

1. ML 4001 – Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto
   As the first LP ever released, this is the crown jewel of the ML 4000 series. Early pressings featuring “Non-Breakable Vinylite” on the front cover are particularly sought after.
2. ML 4021 – Ravel / Debussy: La Valse / Iberia
   Conducted by Fritz Reiner, this album captures some iconic compositions and is highly valued for its historic and artistic significance.
3. ML 4049 – Tchaikovsky: 1812 Overture
   Conducted by Eugene Ormandy, this release often commands premium prices, especially in pristine condition with the original cover.

Cover Variants and Early Pressing Indicators

• Non-Breakable Vinylite: The earliest pressings prominently display “Non-Breakable Vinylite” on the front cover. Later pressings simplify this to just “Non-Breakable.”
• Top Flap: Early sleeves feature top loading openings with a flap. Later pressings no longer utilized the flap and just had an opening at the top.

The CL 6000 Series: Columbia’s First 10-Inch LPs

While the ML 4000 series catered to classical audiences, the CL 6000 series was Columbia’s response to shorter compositions and more mainstream genres. These 10-inch LPs offered portability and accessibility, making them perfect for pop, jazz, and light classical recordings.

The First 10-Inch LP: CL 6001

The first entry and the most sought after release in this series, CL 6001, reissued The Voice of Frank Sinatra in the LP format. Originally released in 1946 as a collection of 78s, this recording of Sinatra’s early work was reimagined for the LP format in 1948, offering fans improved fidelity and a sleeker listening experience on a 10″ disc. Of note is that the earliest and most sought after copy of CL 6001 was repressed multiple times and had difference colored sleeves and most notably remove the word “Vinylite” from the front cover and the flap on the top of the outer sleeve. Clean copies of CL 6001 are very difficult to find and should be on the want list of Frank Sinatra fans and collectors alike.

Some Key Releases

1. CL 6001 – The Voice of Frank Sinatra
   This historic record remains one of the most collectible LPs of all time. As with the ML series, look for covers that say “Non-Breakable Vinylite” for the earliest pressings.
2. CL 6019 – Frank Sinatra–Christmas Songs by Sinatra
   A cornerstone of jazz history, this record is treasured for its nostalgia and artistic and historical value, and early pressings are rare finds.
3. Beatrice Kay, The Elm City Four – Naughty Nineties
   Featuring some of Beatrice Kay’s most iconic performances, this LP is highly collectible, especially in excellent condition.

Cover Variants and Collectible Details

• Non-Breakable Vinylite: Like the ML series, the earliest CL series pressings feature this phrase prominently on the cover.
• Design Variants: Some CL covers, particularly those for jazz records, were issued with alternate artwork or slight design changes over time, adding to their collectible allure.

Scarcity and Value: What Makes These Records Desirable?

Collectors are drawn to the ML 4000 and CL 6000 series for their historical significance and rarity, especially early pressings. Factors influencing value include:

1. Condition: Pristine vinyl and well-preserved jackets significantly increase a record’s value. Since these have been around since 1948, copies in VG+, EX or NM condition are very rare.
2. Label Variations: Contrary to a common misconception, the six-eye Columbia label was introduced later, in 1956. Early ML and CL pressings instead feature Columbia’s earlier LP labels, which are plain and utilitarian compared to later designs. They can be identified with a blue or red label with gold print, “COLUMBIA” clearly printed at the top and a deep groove pressed into the label. Other varients may also exist.
3. Scarce Titles: Releases such as ML 4001 and CL 6001 and most others in the series can be difficult to find, particularly in excellent condition, and can fetch high prices at auctions.

Technical Achievements of the LP Format

Both series showcased Columbia’s groundbreaking technology, led by Dr. Peter Goldmark. Key innovations included:

• Microgroove Design: Enabled longer playtimes and higher fidelity.
• Vinylite Composition: Durable and lightweight, offering a significant improvement over shellac.
• Optimized Recording Techniques: Enhanced clarity, making classical and vocal performances more vivid than ever before.

Conclusion: Collecting a Piece of History

The ML 4000 and CL 6000 series are more than just records—they’re artifacts of a pivotal moment in recorded music history. Whether you’re captivated by Milstein’s Mendelssohn or Sinatra’s crooning, these LPs offer a connection to a golden era of recording innovation.

For collectors, the thrill lies not just in the music but in the hunt: seeking out early pressings with “Non-Breakable Vinylite,” unearthing color variants, and uncovering rare titles in pristine condition.

So, the next time you’re crate digging, keep an eye out for these Columbia gems. You might just spin a piece of history on your turntable.

Check out episode 18 of Vintage Media Grading–The Podcast by pressing the “play” button above.

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