Introduction For the audiophile, Japanese mini lps can become more than just a hobby.
Many collectors become real fanatics.
Luckily, you don't have to travel all the way to Japan to get your hands on them.
What They Are Mini LP CDs from Japan are re-releases of albums that originally appeared on twelve inch vinyl records.
They're really unique in that the paper or cardboard sleeves they come in are often exact detailed reproductions of the original release on vinyl.
Being small and convenient, they are quickly desired by collectors.
Japan Mini LPs often include the lyric sheets and any other extras that appeared in the original vinyl release too - scaled down to "CD" size.
These CDs can be released as individual albums or box sets.
Often they are produced in short runs and include digitally remastered soundtracks.
These are just some of the reasons that they are so in demand by collectors around the planet.
Examples Example of popular albums that have appeared in a Japan mini lp versions include:

• All of the Beatles albums
• All of Pink Floyd's recordings
• Classic Jazz and Blues titles
• and more...
  

In fact, many of the rarest and most famous albums in all genres have been re-released in this format.
For those that wish they could get their hands on the original, the Japan mini version could be the next best thing.
Getting Them Although most of these are manufactured in Japan for the Japanese market, collectors outside the land of the rising sun can still get their hands on new or used out of print editions by purchasing from reliable sellers on eBay.
Buyer Beware Beware of sellers from outside Japan, especially Chinese and Russian sellers, as there are a number of "fake" and unauthorized mini lps being produced and sold from these countries.
Check that those listed on eBay are from reliable dealers in Japan with plenty of positive feedback.