Code on Japanese CDs
Code on Japanese CDs
Japanese CDs are known for their distinctive features, including the presence of an obi strip and various codes printed on the packaging. These codes provide valuable information about the CD, such as release dates, rental permissions, and pricing details. In this article, we will explore the significance of these codes and their implications for Japanese CD releases.
Obi Strip
One notable feature of Japanese CDs is the obi strip, a paper strip that is wrapped around the spine of the CD case. The obi strip serves as an additional piece of information and often contains essential details about the CD release. These details may include labels, catalog numbers, barcodes, release dates, and prices. The obi strip plays a crucial role in providing important information to collectors and enthusiasts.
Release Dates
The obi strip typically displays multiple dates, each with its own significance. The primary date listed is the official release date when the CD is first made available in stores. This date indicates the start of the CD’s availability to the public. Additionally, in the case of reissues, the obi strip may also include the date of the album’s original release, particularly for vinyl LPs. This information allows collectors to trace the history and chronology of the CD release.
Furthermore, there may be a separate date that indicates when the retailer is permitted to sell the CD at a price different from the official price. This date serves as a guideline for retailers regarding pricing strategies and ensures consistency in the market.
Rental Permission
On the obi strip, you may come across a circled symbol, often a capital “Y” inside a circle. This symbol indicates “Yogaku,” which means that the rights for the CD release are held by a non-Japanese company. CDs featuring this symbol are not allowed to be rented to the Japanese public for one year after the official release date. This restriction is in place to protect the interests of the record companies and maintain control over the distribution and sales channels of these CDs.
Price Maintenance
The obi strip typically displays two prices: one inclusive of tax and one exclusive of tax. It is a legal requirement to provide both prices, even though the tax rate is consistently 5%. The presence of these prices ensures transparency in pricing. Additionally, the obi strip includes a date that signifies until when the seller must sell the CD at the listed price. After this date, the CD can be sold at any price determined by the retailer. This system of price maintenance aims to regulate the market and prevent excessive price fluctuations.
In conclusion, the codes found on Japanese CDs, particularly on the obi strip, offer valuable information about the release, including release dates, rental permissions, and pricing details. These codes serve various purposes, such as providing historical context, ensuring price consistency, and controlling the rental distribution of CDs. Collectors and enthusiasts often pay close attention to these codes as they contribute to the overall understanding and appreciation of Japanese CD releases.
Sources:
- “Japanese CD dates: rental permission, price maintenance, or…?” by mjb5310, Steve Hoffman Music Forums (https://forums.stevehoffman.tv/threads/japanese-cd-dates-rental-permission-price-maintenance-or.234759/)
- “Obi Strip” – MusicBrainz (https://musicbrainz.org/doc/Obi_Strip)
- “Japanese Paper Sleeve Mini Vinyl LP Replica CD – What is an obi strip?” – Mini LPs (http://www.minilps.net/mini-lp-replicas/what-is-an-obi-strip/)
FAQs
Code on Japanese CDs
What is an obi strip on a Japanese CD?
An obi strip is a piece of paper that is wrapped around the spine of a Japanese CD case. It provides additional information about the CD release, such as labels, catalog numbers, barcodes, release dates, and prices.
What do the release dates on the obi strip indicate?
The release dates on the obi strip serve different purposes. The primary date listed is the official release date when the CD is first made available in stores. For reissues, the obi strip may also include the date of the album’s original release. Additionally, there may be a separate date indicating when the retailer can sell the CD at a different price from the official price.
What does the circled symbol, often a capital “Y” inside a circle, mean on the obi strip?
The circled symbol represents “Yogaku,” which indicates that the rights for the CD release are held by a non-Japanese company. CDs featuring this symbol are not permitted to be rented to the Japanese public for one year after the official release date.
Why are there two prices listed on the obi strip?
The obi strip usually displays two prices: one inclusive of tax and one exclusive of tax. It is a legal requirement to provide both prices, even though the tax rate is consistently 5%. These prices ensure transparency in pricing and comply with regulations regarding tax-inclusive pricing.
What does the date listed on the obi strip regarding price mean?
The date listed on the obi strip indicates until when the seller is obligated to sell the CD at the listed price. After this date, the CD can be sold at any price determined by the retailer. This system of price maintenance aims to regulate the market and prevent excessive price fluctuations.
Are the release dates on Japanese CDs consistent across different releases?
No, the release dates can vary depending on the specific CD release. Different releases may have different official release dates and pricing guidelines. It’s important to refer to the obi strip or other official sources for accurate and up-to-date information for each particular CD release.
Are obi strips found on all Japanese CDs?
While obi strips are commonly found on Japanese CDs, not all CDs may include them. Some releases, especially those targeted at international markets, may not have obi strips. However, obi strips are often highly valued by collectors and enthusiasts due to the additional information they provide.
Can the rental restrictions on Japanese CDs be applied to CDs released by Japanese artists?
The rental restrictions generally apply to CDs released by non-Japanese companies. CDs released by Japanese artists or Japanese record labels may not have the rental restriction symbol on the obi strip, as the rights for those releases typically remain within Japan.