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264 releasesVinyl(96)
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolydor
Netherlands“[Cover] Digitaly recorded and mixed at Polar Music Studios, Stockholm ℗ 1981 Polar Music International AB, Stockholm © 1981 Polar Music International AB, Stockholm Marketed by Polydor B.V. Printed in Holland [Label] ℗ 1981 Polar Music Int. AB Made in Holland Union Songs AB A Polar Music International Production Printed inner sleeve with lyrics Copyright © 1981 for the world by Union Songs AB, Stockholm This release has "℗ 1981 670" in the runout. See [r16950819] for similar cover and labels but containing "CUTTING ROOM SWEDEN" in the runout”
Cat#: 2311 122
The Visitors
chevron_rightMusic-Box
Greece“Digitally recorded and mixed at Polar Music Studios, Stockholm LP sleeve, Issued with a printed lyrics inner sleeve. "Digitally recorded" sticker on the front cover of some copies.”
Cat#: M. Box 342
The Visitors
chevron_rightVogue
France“Specific features: - this version has "ENREGISTRÉ ET MIXÉ PAR PROCÉDÉ NUMÉRIQUE" printed inside the rectangular box on the back cover, - runout inscriptions contain etched and stamped parts. Stamped on both sides "CUTTING ROOM SWEDEN M.P.P.V.". The rest of inscriptions (main matrix number string) is etched. M.P.P.V. can be hard to recognize and decipher due to being only partially stamped onto the surface in at least some cases. Digitally Recorded & Mixed at Polar Music Studios, Stockholm Enregistré et mixé par procédé numérique (Digital) aux Polar Music Studios, Stockholm ℗ 1981 Polar Music International AB, Stockholm © 1981 Polar Music International AB, Stockholm Copyright © 1981 for the world by Union Songs AB, Stockholm, Sweden France Imprimerie -Sorel- Printed in France Grave et Presse en France”
Cat#: 540020
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolydor
Portugal“Digitally recorded and mixed at Polar Music Studios, Stockholm. ℗ 1981 Polar Music International AB, Stockholm. © 1981 Polar Music International AB, Stockholm. POLYGRAM DISCOS SARL Fabricado em Portugal Execução Gráfica Monumental Distribuido em Portugal por Polygram A1 given as The Visitors (Crackin' Up) on inner lyrics sleeve.”
Cat#: 2311 122
The Visitors
chevron_rightCBS
Israel“℗ © 1981 Polar Music International AB. Manufactured and Distributed by CBS Records Ltd, Tel Aviv, Israel Insert with lyrics”
Cat#: CBS 85392
The Visitors
chevron_rightVogue
France“Digitally Recorded & Mixed at/Enregistrement digital et mixage aux Polar Music Studios, Stockholm ℗ 1981 Polar Music International AB, Stockholm © 1981 Polar Music International AB, Stockholm Copyright © 1981 for the world by Union Songs AB, Stockholm, Sweden France Imprimerie -Sorel- Printed in France Grave et Presse en France Disponible en cassette 740020 The runouts are hand-etched, except for the stamped "M.P.P.V."; "CUTTING ROOM SWEDEN" is etched with a pantograph. All credits in English and French.”
Cat#: 540020
The Visitors
chevron_rightAtlantic
Canada“Recorded and mixed in Stockholm”
Cat#: KSD 19332
The Visitors
chevron_rightBalet
TürkiyeCat#: LBE 237
The Visitors
chevron_rightRCA Victor
Australia“Lyrics printed on inner-gate. Digitally recorded and mixed at Polar Music Studios, Stockholm ©1981 Polar Music International AB, Stockholm.”
Cat#: VPL1 6607
The Visitors
chevron_rightRCA Victor
Australia“Lyrics printed on inner-gate. Digitally recorded and mixed at Polar Music Studios, Stockholm ©1981 Polar Music International AB, Stockholm.”
Cat#: VPL1 6607
The Visitors
chevron_rightRCA Victor / Polar
Brazil“104.8214 on front cover and labels. POLS 342 on back cover. Etched runouts, excpet "CUTTING ROOM SWEDEN", stamped.”
Cat#: POLS 342 · 104.8214
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolydor
Germany“Club-Edition. (P) 1981 Polar Music International AB, Stockholm (C) 1981 Polar Music International AB, Stockholm Aus dem Hause Deutsche Grammophon Gesellschaft mbH. Made in West Germany. Digitally recorded and mixed at Polar Music Studios, Stockholm.”
Cat#: 91 676 7
The Visitors
chevron_rightCarnaby
Spain“Digitally recorded and mixed at Polar Music Studios, Stockholm Photo at Julius Kronenbergs Atelje, Skansen, Stockholm. All songs published by Union Songs AB (P)(C)1981 Polar Music International AB, Stockholm Laminated cover comes with printed inner sleeve”
Cat#: TXS 3232
The Visitors
chevron_rightAtlantic
Cat#: sd19332
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolydor
Germany“Club Edition like [r1547633] but with different Cat#: Cover und Label: 91 676 7. Matrix/Runout: 2311 122 S1..2 CUTTING ROOM SWEEDEN BF and 2311 122 S2..2 CUTTING ROOM SWEEDEN BF”
Cat#: 91 676 7
The Visitors
chevron_rightAtlantic
Canada“Released with a printed inner sleeve including lyrics. Track A1 subtitled 'Crackin' Up' on the inner sleeve. Photo taken at Julius Kronbergs Atelje, Skansen, Stockholm. Digitally recorded and mixed at Polar Music Studios, Stockholm. ℗ 1981 Polar Music International AB, Stockholm. © 1981 Polar Music International AB, Stockholm. Manufactured and distributed by WEA Music Of Canada, Ltd., a Warner Communications company. All tracks © 1981 for the world by Union Songs AB, Stockholm, Sweden. Stereo. R. All songs originally pub. by Union Songs AB.”
Cat#: XSD 19332
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolydor
Philippines“Digitally recorded and mixed at Polar Music Studios, Stockholm Photo at Julius Kronenbergs Atelje, Skansen, Stockholm. ℗ & © 1981 Polar Music International AB, Stockholm”
Cat#: 2311 122
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolydor
Germany“Digitally recorded and mixed at Polar Music Studios, Stockholm, Sweden. All songs originally published by Union Songs AB, Stockholm. ℗ 1981 Polar Music International AB, Stockholm © 1981 Polar Music International AB, Stockholm Made in West Germany Aus dem Hause Deutsche Grammophon Gesellschaft mbH Julius Kronenbergs Atelje, Skanse, Stockholm [photography location] This version has "LC 0309" at 6 o'clock at label. "Made in West Germany" in 2 lines. Labels have a black boxed Polydor logo. [r=13446035] has "LC 0309" at 9.30 o'clock at label. "Made in West Germany" in 1 line. Labels have a black & white Polydor logo, not boxed. Runouts stamped, except mastering studio sometimes etched (variant 1, 2). letters or letter + digit following mastering studio are sometimes 90° rotated, etched or stamped (variant 5 to 9). Some copies came with the additional rectangular sticker with "DIGITALAUFNAHME" printed on it.”
Cat#: 2311 122
The Visitors
chevron_rightEpic
Italy“Digitally recorded and mixed at Polar Music Studios, Stockholm”
Cat#: EPC 10032
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolar
Finland“Released with an inner lyric sleeve Track A1 called The Visitors (Crackin' Up) on Lyric Sleeve Lyric sleeve list writing credit as Benny Andersson&Björn Ulvaeus Disc labels list [a975170] as Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus Back sleeve lists as listed in the credits section. Photo[s at] Julius Kronenbergs Atelje, Skansen, Stockholm. Digitally recorded and mixed at Polar Music Studios, Stockholm ℗ 1981 Polar Music International AB, Stockholm © 1981 Polar Music International AB, Stockholm”
Cat#: POLS 342
The Visitors
chevron_rightSunshine
Zimbabwe“Made in Zimbabwe The first ABBA album to be released with color Sunshine labels after the blue & white label variant. ℗ & © 1981 Polar Music International AB, Stockholm”
Cat#: GBL(D) 515
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolydor
Netherlands“[Cover] Digitaly recorded and mixed at Polar Music Studios, Stockholm ℗ 1981 Polar Music International AB, Stockholm © 1981 Polar Music International AB, Stockholm Marketed by Polydor B.V. Printed in Holland [Label] ℗ 1981 Polar Music Int. AB Made in Holland Union Songs AB A Polar Music International Production [Sleeve with lyrics] Copyright © 1981 for the world by Union Songs AB, Stockholm This release has "CUTTING ROOM SWEDEN" stamped in the runout. See [r1451197] for similar cover and labels but containing "℗ 1981 670" in the runout.”
Cat#: 2311 122
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolydor
Germany“On back cover: [Embossed "PRS Hannover"] [MC logo] [url=https://www.discogs.com/release/3967409]3100 622[/url] Aus dem Hause Deutsche Grammophon Gesellschaft mbH, Hohe Bleichen 14-16, 2000 Hamburg 36 Digitally recorded and mixed at Polar Music Studios, Stockholm ℗ 1981 Polar Music International AB, Stockholm © 1981 Polar Music International AB, Stockholm On labels: Made in West Germany Digitally recorded and mixed at Polar Music Studios, Stockholm, Sweden All songs originally published by Union Songs AB, Stockholm ℗ 1981 Polar Music International AB, Stockholm On inner sleeve: Copyright © 1981 for the world by Union Songs AB, Stockholm, Sweden. Similar German versions: - [r=577035] has different labels with a black ring around the center hole - [r=7273878] has different labels and runouts”
Cat#: 2311 122
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolar Music International AB
Sweden“Rare white vinyl release . I can add some facts for this release. The pressing plant Svensk Grammofonindustri (SGI) were in Bro just outside of Stockholm were the vinyl was made. I live in Bro and have met the man who was responsible for the vinyl presses at this time. He told me that they pressed a small qty, ( less then 50 pcs ) on white vinyl becuase Polar was interested to release a colored vinyl. I got my white copy from this man”
Cat#: POLS342
CD(77)
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolydor
Europe“The same as [r2720765], but with mould SID Code.”
Cat#: 800 011-2
Barcode: 0 42280 00112 4
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolydor
Germany“(P) 1981 Polar Music International AB, Stockholm. Booklet has 8 pages including lyrics. On disc: Made in W. Germany by PolyGram. Inner disc ring is coated with aluminum.”
Cat#: 800 011-2
Barcode: 0 42280 00112 4
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolar
Australia“Standard jewel case with transparent disc tray 24-page booklet: photos, liner notes, lyrics, credits [sleeve rear:] ℗ 1981 Polar Music International AB (1-10). ℗ 1982 Polar Music International AB (11-13). © 2001 Polar Music International AB. A Universal Music Company. (...) Marketed in Australasia by Universal Music Australia under exclusive license. Made in Australia. www.getmusic.com.au [disc face:] ℗ 1974 Polar Music International AB. © 2001 Polar Music International AB. A Universal Music Company. (...) Made in Australia. See booklet for further details.”
Cat#: 549 957-2
Barcode: 07 31454 99572 6
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolydor
Germany“Older press than [r=10040711]. On disc face at 3 o'clock, "Made in W. Germany by PolyGram" appears in a box next to rights society below cat. no. The runout reads "MADE IN W. GERMANY BY PDO" stamped in mould. Comes in a smooth-sided jewel case with 8-page booklet containing credits and lyrics.”
Cat#: 800 011-2
Barcode: 042280001124
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolydor
Germany“This release has not got a transparent center, [r4863829] does. Packaged in standard jewel case with 8 page booklet including lyrics and credits. Digitally recorded and mixed at Polar Music Studios, Stockholm In booklet: ℗ 1981 Polar Music International AB, Stockholm © 1981 Polar Music International AB, Stockholm Copyright © 1981 for the world by Union Songs AB, Stockholm, Sweden. All rights reserved Printed in West Germany by/Imprimé en Allemagne par Neef, Wittingen • Made in West Germany On disc: DIGITAL RECORDING Made in W. Germany All songs originally published by Union Songs AB, Stockholm ℗ 1981 Polar Music International AB, Stockholm On traycard: ℗ 1981 Polar Music International AB, Stockholm © 1981 Polar Music International AB, Stockholm CD is manufactured by PolyGram in Hanover, West Germany Printed in West Germany by/Imprimé en Allemagne par Neef, Wittingen • Made in West Germany Inside traycard: 800 011-2”
Cat#: 800 011-2
Barcode: 0 42280 00112 4
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolar
Ukraine“Booket: 4 pages Для продажу на території України.”
Cat#: 549 957-2
Barcode: 7 31454 99572 6
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolydor
Europe“This release has a transparent center, [r13081787] has not. (P) 1981 Polar Music International AB, Stockholm. Booklet has 8 pages including lyrics.”
Cat#: 800 011-2
Barcode: 0 42280 00112 4
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolydor
Europe“This version has just matrix/ runout 800 011-2 13 # and a handetched combination of two letters Digitally recorded and mixed at Polar Music Studios, Stockholm Photo at Julius Kronenbergs Atelje, Skansen, Stockholm. ℗ & © 1981 Polar Music International AB, Stockholm”
Cat#: 800 011-2
Barcode: 3 259180 001124
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolar
Europe“Released in a clear 2-CD jewel case with 24 page booklet. On back of inlay & labels: This compilation ℗ 2012 Polar Music International AB. © 2012 Polar Music International AB. Made in the EU. First cat#: On back of inlay (in white box at bottom) Second cat#: On spine”
Cat#: 3706261 · 0060253706261
Barcode: 602537062614
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolar
Europe“Sticker says "ABBA 30th Anniversary". ℗ 1981 Polar Music International AB (1-10). ℗ 1982 Polar Music International AB (11-13). © 2001 Polar Music International AB. Made in the EU.”
Cat#: 549 957-2
Barcode: 7 31454 99572 6
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolydor
Germany“The first Abba CDs ever produced were never designed for public consumption. Indeed, they predate the release of the first CDs to the general public. The story of Abba on CD began in the technical laboratories of PolyGram in West Germany. In the run-up to the official launch of the CD format in 1983. PolyGram produced a number of different prototype discs of differing musical genres to test their manufacturing processes and eventually promote the new format among the press. The chosen pop CD prototype was The Visitors, seemingly chosen because it had been mostly digitally recorded and it was the then latest record by PolyGram’s best-selling European artist, Abba. In all, there were three different prototypes of The Visitors produced, each with different characteristics. Only one of these versions is known to be playable – the other two only appear to have been preserved encased in plastic in commemorative pieces presented to PolyGram staff to celebrate the launch of the new format. All three versions have identical disc faces, which feature a different textual layout to the publicly released version. The most notable of these is that the catalogue number is printed as 8000 112 on the prototypes but appears as 800 011-2 on the released version. [r8771861] (Prototype 1) The first version can be identified from its data side, which features no matrix number etched on the inner hub and strange grooves throughout the disc unlike any subsequent CDs. It is highly unlikely to have been playable. [r8771945] (Prototype 2) The second version may have been playable but it is doubtful whether it played The Visitors. The data side’s matrix number is 400 029-2, which corresponds with the early classical release, the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra’s version of Tchaikovsky’s Symphonie Nr. 6. As a result, it seems likely that this ‘dummy’ version was produced for marketing purposes. [r8771955] (Prototype 3) The third version was definitely playable and was sent out to the press with pre-production CD players for review purposes. Among these reviewers were Bjorn, Benny and Abba’s manager Stig Anderson, who were presented with copies (and a CD player) by PolyGram in August 1982. While the third version was essentially the finished product, it wasn’t the one that made it into the shops in March 1983. [r4091246] (Commercial Release) For a start, the text print on the CD had been changed to exclude track running times so that there was more space for producing and publishing credits. The digits in the title’s catalogue number had also been reshuffled to follow the familiar pattern adopted by all PolyGram CD releases until the late 1990s. In addition, it is possible that the actual mastering on the disc was also changed – early reviewers of the disc had observed that tape hiss was audible during the segue between Slipping Through My Fingers, which was recorded on analogue equipment, and Like An Angel Passing Through My Room, which had been recorded digitally. This hiss isn’t evident on the commercially released version of the album.”
Cat#: 8000 112
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolydor
Germany“The first Abba CDs ever produced were never designed for public consumption. Indeed, they predate the release of the first CDs to the general public. The story of Abba on CD began in the technical laboratories of PolyGram in West Germany. In the run-up to the official launch of the CD format in March 1983, PolyGram produced a number of different prototype discs of differing musical genres to test their manufacturing processes and eventually promote the new format among the press. The chosen pop CD prototype was The Visitors, seemingly chosen because it had been mostly digitally recorded and it was the then latest record by PolyGram’s best-selling European artist, Abba. In all, there were three different prototypes of The Visitors produced, each with different characteristics. Only one of these versions is known to be playable – the other two only appear to have been preserved encased in plastic in commemorative pieces presented to PolyGram staff to celebrate the launch of the new format. All three versions have identical disc faces, which feature a different textual layout to the publicly released version. The most notable of these is that the catalogue number is printed as 8000 112 on the prototypes but appears as 800 011-2 on the released version. [r8771861] (Prototype 1) The first version can be identified from its data side, which features no matrix number etched on the inner hub and strange grooves throughout the disc unlike any subsequent CDs. It is highly unlikely to have been playable. [r8771945] (Prototype 2) The second version may have been playable but it is doubtful whether it played The Visitors. The data side’s matrix number is 400 029-2, which corresponds with the early classical release, the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra’s version of Tchaikovsky’s Symphonie Nr. 6. As a result, it seems likely that this ‘dummy’ version was produced for marketing purposes. [r8771955] (Prototype 3) The third version was definitely playable and was sent out to the press with pre-production CD players for review purposes. Among these reviewers were Bjorn, Benny and Abba’s manager Stig Anderson, who were presented with copies (and a CD player) by PolyGram in August 1982. While the third version was essentially the finished product, it wasn’t the one that made it into the shops in 1983. [r4091246] (Commercial Release) For a start, the text print on the CD had been changed to exclude track running times so that there was more space for producing and publishing credits. The digits in the title’s catalogue number had also been reshuffled to follow the familiar pattern adopted by all PolyGram CD releases until the late 1990s. In addition, it is possible that the actual mastering on the disc was also changed – early reviewers of the disc had observed that tape hiss was audible during the segue between Slipping Through My Fingers, which was recorded on analogue equipment, and Like An Angel Passing Through My Room, which had been recorded digitally. This hiss isn’t evident on the commercially released version of the album.”
Cat#: 8000 112
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolydor
Canada“Polygram Records”
Cat#: 422 800 011-2
Barcode: 04228000112497
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolydor / Polar
Europe“Made in the UK by Universal M&L Remastered in 24 bit. Four bonus tracks (tracks 10 to 13). Track 8: Incorrectly credited in track list as by "B. Andersson / S. Anderson", but correctly in lyrics section as "B. Andersson / B. Ulvaeus" Photo taken at Julius Kronbergs atelje [Julius Kronbergs studio], Skansen, Stockholm”
Cat#: 533 978-2
Barcode: 7 31453 39782 8
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolar
Europe“This release appears to be by Optimal Media GmbH. It is similar externally to [url=https://www.discogs.com/release/1335495]this release[/url] by EDC and [url=https://www.discogs.com/release/6111979]this release[/url] by Universal M & L. The matrix pattern suggests it is from 2015 or later. Packaging is a jewel case with 24-page glossy booklet. [From the rear cover:] ℗ 1981 Polar Music International AB (1-10). ℗ 1982 Polar Music International AB (11-13). © 2001 Polar Music International AB. Made in the EU. [From the disc front:] ℗ 1981-1982 Polar Music International AB. © 2001 Polar Music International AB. [From the booklet:] Recording sessions began in March 1981 and continued until November 1981. Recorded at Polar Music Studios in Stockholm, Sweden. Thanks to [url=https://www.discogs.com/artist/1184164-G%C3%B6rel-Hanser]Görel Hanser[/url] and [url=https://www.discogs.com/artist/4021301-Carol-Benny]Carol Benny[/url].”
Cat#: 549 957-2
Barcode: 7 31454 99572 6
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolydor
Europe“℗ 1981 Polar Music International AB, Stockholm. © 1981 Polar Music International AB, Stockholm. On CD: Made in France by PDO, this one is made by [url=http://www.discogs.com/ABBA-The-Visitors/release/2720765]PMDC[/url] Track A1 subtitled 'Crackin' Up' on the inner sleeve. Photo taken at Julius Kronbergs Atelje, Skansen, Stockholm. Digitally recorded and mixed at Polar Music Studios, Stockholm. All tracks © 1981 for the world by Union Songs AB, Stockholm, Sweden.”
Cat#: 800 011-2
Barcode: 0 42280 00112 4
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolar
Europe“Standard jewel case with transparent disc tray 24-page booklet: photos, liner notes, lyrics, credits Sticker on jewel case front: "['Polar' logo] / 24 BIT DIGITALLY REMASTERED. / FEATURING BONUS TRACKS, EXTENDED / LINER NOTES, LYRICS AND NEW PHOTOS." [sleeve rear:] ℗ 1981 Polar Music International AB (1-10). ℗ 1982 Polar Music International AB (11-13). © 2001 Polar Music International AB. A Universal Music Company. (...) Made in the EU. LC 00309 [disc face:] ℗ 1981-82 Polar Music International AB. © 2001 Polar Music International AB. A Universal Music Company. (...) Made in the EU. BIEM/MCPS. LC00309. See booklet for further details. Made in the EU.”
Cat#: 549 957-2
Barcode: 7 31454 99572 6
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolar
Europe“℗ 1981 Polar Music International AB (1-10). ℗ 1982 Polar Music International AB (11-13). © 2001 Polar Music International AB. Made in the EU.”
Cat#: 549 957-2
Barcode: 731454995726
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolydor
Germany“(P) 1981 Polar Music International AB, Stockholm. Booklet has 8 pages including lyrics. On the disc label there is no inscription about the country (factory) of the disc manufacturer. At the same time, there is text on the inner MIRROR surface: MADE IN GERMANY BY PMDC ZC”
Cat#: 800 011-2
Barcode: 0 42280 00112 4
The Visitors
chevron_rightPhilips
NetherlandsCat#: 800011 2 12
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolydor
Australia“℗ 1981 Polar Music International AB, Stockholm. © 1981 Polar Music International AB, Stockholm. Marketed in Australasia by PolyGram under exclusive license. Made in Australia Track A1 subtitled 'Crackin' Up' on the inner sleeve. Photo taken at Julius Kronbergs Atelje, Skansen, Stockholm. Digitally recorded and mixed at Polar Music Studios, Stockholm. All tracks © 1981 for the world by Union Songs AB, Stockholm, Sweden.”
Cat#: 800 011-2 · 800011-2
Barcode: 0 42280 00112 4
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolydor
Germany“DIGITAL ⋆ STEREO 800 011-2 All songs written, arranged & produced by Benny Andersson & Björn Ulvaeus Engineered by Michael B. Tretow Digitally recorded and mixed at Polar Music Studios, Stockholm ℗ 1981 Polar Music International AB, Stockholm © 1981 Polar Music International AB, Stockholm CD is manufactured by PolyGram in Hanover, West Germany Printed in West Germany by/Imprimé en RFA par Münsterman, Hannover-Made in West Germany Copyright © 1981 for the world by Union Songs AB, Stockholm, Sweden. All rights reserved All rights of the producer and of the owner of the work reproduced reserved ⋆ Unauthorised copying, hiring, lending, public performance and broadcasting of this recording prohibited ⋆ Alle Urheber- und Leistungsschutzrechte vorbehalten ⋆ Kein Verleih! keine unerlaubte Vervielfältigung, Vermietung, Aufführung, Sendung!”
Cat#: 800 011-2
Barcode: 0 42280 00112 4
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolydor
Germany“The first Abba CDs ever produced were never designed for public consumption. Indeed, they predate the release of the first CDs to the general public. The story of Abba on CD began in the technical laboratories of PolyGram in West Germany. In the run-up to the official launch of the CD format in March 1983, PolyGram produced a number of different prototype discs of differing musical genres to test their manufacturing processes and eventually promote the new format among the press. The chosen pop CD prototype was The Visitors, seemingly chosen because it had been mostly digitally recorded and it was the then latest record by PolyGram’s best-selling European artist, Abba. In all, there were three different prototypes of The Visitors produced, each with different characteristics. Only one of these versions is known to be playable – the other two only appear to have been preserved encased in plastic in commemorative pieces presented to PolyGram staff to celebrate the launch of the new format. All three versions have identical disc faces, which feature a different textual layout to the publicly released version. The most notable of these is that the catalogue number is printed as 8000 112 on the prototypes but appears as 800 011-2 on the released version. [r8771861] (Prototype 1) The first version can be identified from its data side, which features no matrix number etched on the inner hub and strange grooves throughout the disc unlike any subsequent CDs. It is highly unlikely to have been playable. [r8771945] (Prototype 2) The second version may have been playable but it is doubtful whether it played The Visitors. The data side’s matrix number is 400 029-2, which corresponds with the early classical release, the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra’s version of Tchaikovsky’s Symphonie Nr. 6. As a result, it seems likely that this ‘dummy’ version was produced for marketing purposes. [r8771955] (Prototype 3) The third version was definitely playable and was sent out to the press with pre-production CD players for review purposes. Among these reviewers were Bjorn, Benny and Abba’s manager Stig Anderson, who were presented with copies (and a CD player) by PolyGram. While the third version was essentially the finished product, it wasn’t the one that made it into the shops in March 1983. [r4091246] (Commercial Release) For a start, the text print on the CD had been changed to exclude track running times so that there was more space for producing and publishing credits. The digits in the title’s catalogue number had also been reshuffled to follow the familiar pattern adopted by all PolyGram CD releases until the late 1990s. In addition, it is possible that the actual mastering on the disc was also changed – early reviewers of the disc had observed that tape hiss was audible during the segue between Slipping Through My Fingers, which was recorded on analogue equipment, and Like An Angel Passing Through My Room, which had been recorded digitally. This hiss isn’t evident on the commercially released version of the album.”
Cat#: 8000 112
The Visitors (+7 Bonus Tracks)
chevron_rightNot On Label (ABBA)
Russia“"+7 Bonus Tracks" on front cover, "(+7 Bonus Track)" on spine No cat# on release. Only "UC" appears (an abbreviation of 'Ultimate Collection') Durations printed on cover are incorrect. Actual durations (from CD) given above. Packaged in jewel case with black tray (since back cover is blank on inner side). Booklet is 4 pages, where pages 2 & 3 are blank.”
Tape(91)
The Visitors
chevron_rightSunshine
South AfricaCat#: L4 GBL (N) 515
The Visitors
chevron_rightVogue
France“Manufactured with an engraved [[l=AGI] logo] on cassette. Made in France Duplicaté en France Printed in France Also issued [url=http://www.discogs.com/release/2994297]with a J-card printed by Imprimerie Saint-Roch.[/url]”
Cat#: 740020
The Visitors
chevron_rightLinfair 福茂唱片
Taiwan“Taiwan edition. Manufactured and distributed by LINFAIR MAGNETIC SOUND LTD.”
Cat#: KAB 272
The Visitors
chevron_rightVogue
France“Black lettering on cassette shell. "V" (stands for "Vogue") engraved on cassette shell on B side. Sleeve is printed by [l294846]. There is "Enregistré et mixé par procédé numérique" on the inlay. Also, see these close issues : - [r=10855326] with blue lettering on cassette shell. Sleeve is printed by [l294846]. There is "Enregistré et mixé par procédé numérique" on the inlay. - [r=8840315] with black lettering on cassette shell but duplicated by [l2704313]. Sleeve is printed by [l272692]. There is "Enregistré et mixé par procédé numérique" on the inlay. - [r=2994297] with black lettering on cassette shell. Sleeve is printed by [l294846]. There is no "Enregistré et mixé par procédé numérique" on the inlay. - [r=36609796] with black lettering on cassette shell but with "V" engraved on cassette shell on A side. Sleeve is printed by [l294846]. There is "Enregistré et mixé par procédé numérique" on the inlay. First catalog number appears on spine and second catalog number appears on cassette. Made in France Duplicaté en France Printed in France”
Cat#: 740.020 · 740020
The Visitors
chevron_rightRCA / RCA Victor
Australia“Grey cassette shell, white paper labels with black text and red RCA logo Made in Australia Approximate timing Side 1 17:47 Approximate timing Side 2 20:15 NB outdent Side 1 approx 2min. 28sec”
Cat#: VPK1 6607
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolar
Finland“Cover photos: Julius Kronenbergs Atelje, Skansen,Stockholm Digitally recorded and mixed at Polar Music Studios, Stockholm ℗ 1981 Polar Music International AB, Stockholm © 1981 Polar Music International AB, Stockholm Helsingin Paino Oy All songs originally published by Union Songs Ab”
Cat#: PMC 342
The Visitors
chevron_rightAtlantic
Canada“℗ © 1981 Polar Music International AB The cassette has a fine grain texture and has no text moulded into shell. Similar version: [r=9396233]: The cassette has 'MADE IN CANADA" moulded into shell, upper right, on 1 side.”
Cat#: XCS-19332
The Visitors
chevron_rightRCA Victor
UruguayCat#: MCUS 385
The Visitors
chevron_rightCBS
Israel“℗ © 1981 Polar Music International AB. Manufactured and Distributed by CBS Records Ltd, Tel Aviv, Israel”
Cat#: 40 85392
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolar
Sweden“Digitally recorded and mixed at Polar Music Studios, Stockholm Photo at Julius Kronenbergs Atelje, Skansen, Stockholm. ℗ & © 1981 Polar Music International AB, Stockholm Tape without paper labels - see also [url=https://www.discogs.com/release/3584841]release with paper labels[/url] This white shell version of this release has the old Polar logo printed on the shell and has a different layout: - ABBA logo is on the lower part of the shell - Catalogue number is on the right side - "All right reserved" and "Dolby Stereo" are missing Same as [r12940288] but this one has magenta printed letters on the shell. The release with the new Polar logo printed on it can be found here: [r8836797]”
Cat#: PMC 342
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolar
Sweden“Digitally recorded and mixed at Polar Music Studios, Stockholm Photo at Julius Kronenbergs Atelje, Skansen, Stockholm. ℗ & © 1981 Polar Music International AB, Stockholm Almost identical to this release: [r8836797]. But with different details in the center of the cassette around the window. This edition has no numbers below the window.”
Cat#: PMC 342
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolydor
Austria“Informations from insert: Digitally Recorded & Mixed at Polar Music Studios, Stockholm ℗ 1981 Polar Music International AB, Stockholm All songs originally published by Union Songs AB, Stockholm, Sweden Printed in Austria by Menzel Druck Informations from labels: Made in Austria ℗ & © 1981 Polar Music International AB, Stockholm”
Cat#: 3100 622
The Visitors
chevron_rightEpic
ItalyCat#: 40EPC 10032 · 40 EPC 10032
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolar
Sweden“This version has dark blue text on this version of cassette (see pictures). The case itself and the J-card seems to be identical to [r8836797] .”
Cat#: PMC 342
The Visitors = ザ・ビジターズ
chevron_rightDiscomate
Japan“1st Japanese cassette issue. Comes in a slipcase with insert.”
Cat#: DCP-1807
The Visitors
chevron_rightAtlantic
United StatesCat#: CS 19332
The Visitors
chevron_rightVogue
France“Also issued [url=https://www.discogs.com/release/8840315]with a J-card printed by France Imprimerie Sorel.[/url]”
Cat#: 740.020 · 740020
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolydor
Singapore“Grey cassette shell, red paper labels with black text. Front cover printed in landscape format”
Cat#: 3100 622
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolar
Sweden“Digitally recorded and mixed at Polar Music Studios, Stockholm Photo at Julius Kronenbergs Atelje, Skansen, Stockholm. ℗ & © 1981 Polar Music International AB, Stockholm Tape with paper labels - see also [url=https://www.discogs.com/ABBA-The-Visitors/release/8836797]release without paper labels[/url]”
Cat#: PMC 342
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolydor
India“Marketed by Music India Ltd.”
Cat#: 3100 622
The Visitors
chevron_rightAtlantic
Canada“℗ © 1981 Polar Music International AB The cassette has a fine grain texture and has 'MADE IN CANADA" moulded into shell, upper right, on one side. Similar version: [r=9742329]: The cassette has no text moulded into shell.”
Cat#: XCS-19332
The Visitors
chevron_rightAtlantic
United States“Later 1980's RCA club version.”
Cat#: CS 19332
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolydor
GermanyCat#: 22 702-5 · 3421 189
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolydor
Germany“℗ 1981 Polar Music International AB, Stockholm Printed in West-Germany Digitally recorded and mixed at Polar Music Studios, Stockholm, Sweden All songs originally published by Union Songs AB, Stockholm”
Cat#: 3100 622
Video(8)
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolar
Europe“Released in a clear 2-CD jewel case with 24 page booklet. On back of inlay & labels: This compilation ℗ 2012 Polar Music International AB. © 2012 Polar Music International AB. Made in the EU. First cat#: On back of inlay (in white box at bottom) Second cat#: On spine”
Cat#: 3706261 · 0060253706261
Barcode: 602537062614
The Visitors (Deluxe Edition)
chevron_rightPolar
ColombiaCat#: 00602527925295
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolar
Indonesia“Manufactured and printed in Indonesia”
Cat#: 279 252-9
Barcode: 6 02527 92529 5
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolar
Europe“Released in a clear 2-CD jewel case with 24 page booklet. On back of inlay & labels: This compilation ℗ 2012 Polar Music International AB. © 2012 Polar Music International AB. Made in the EU. First cat#: On back of inlay (in white box at bottom) Second cat#: On spine”
Cat#: 3706261 · 0060253706261
Barcode: 6 02537 06261 4
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolar / Universal
Thailand“Manufactured and printed in Thailand”
Cat#: 279 252-9
Barcode: 6 02527 92529 5
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolar
Europe“Issued in 8-panel glossy digipak and plastic slipcase. 24-page booklet. No durations appear on the release. DVD production: Filmtech, Stockholm. Made in the EU.”
Cat#: 00602527925295
Barcode: 602527925295
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolar
South Korea“Issued in 8-panel glossy digipak. No plastic cover case. 24 page booklet. Sticker in Korean. Manufactured in Korea.”
Cat#: 279 252-9 · DC30125
Barcode: 8808678250299
The Visitors = ザ・ヴィジターズ
chevron_rightPolar
Japan“Thick jewel case. SHM CD.”
Cat#: UICY-15146
Barcode: 4 988005 714558
Other(8)
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolar
Europe“Released in a clear 2-CD jewel case with 24 page booklet. On back of inlay & labels: This compilation ℗ 2012 Polar Music International AB. © 2012 Polar Music International AB. Made in the EU. First cat#: On back of inlay (in white box at bottom) Second cat#: On spine”
Cat#: 3706261 · 0060253706261
Barcode: 602537062614
The Visitors (Deluxe Edition)
chevron_rightPolar
ColombiaCat#: 00602527925295
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolar
Indonesia“Manufactured and printed in Indonesia”
Cat#: 279 252-9
Barcode: 6 02527 92529 5
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolar
Europe“Released in a clear 2-CD jewel case with 24 page booklet. On back of inlay & labels: This compilation ℗ 2012 Polar Music International AB. © 2012 Polar Music International AB. Made in the EU. First cat#: On back of inlay (in white box at bottom) Second cat#: On spine”
Cat#: 3706261 · 0060253706261
Barcode: 6 02537 06261 4
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolar / Universal
Thailand“Manufactured and printed in Thailand”
Cat#: 279 252-9
Barcode: 6 02527 92529 5
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolar
Europe“Issued in 8-panel glossy digipak and plastic slipcase. 24-page booklet. No durations appear on the release. DVD production: Filmtech, Stockholm. Made in the EU.”
Cat#: 00602527925295
Barcode: 602527925295
The Visitors
chevron_rightPolar
South Korea“Issued in 8-panel glossy digipak. No plastic cover case. 24 page booklet. Sticker in Korean. Manufactured in Korea.”
Cat#: 279 252-9 · DC30125
Barcode: 8808678250299
The Visitors = ザ・ヴィジターズ
chevron_rightPolar
Japan“Thick jewel case. SHM CD.”
Cat#: UICY-15146
Barcode: 4 988005 714558