Can anyone tell me what OBI means on Japanese import?

I would like to explore getting the best quality recordings for a few Pink Floyd albums?

On ebay I see gold 24bit, MSFL Jap obi import - very confusing?

Thanks
Gary

The Obi strip is the paper edging down the side of a Japanese album/CD.

Thanks Steve, do you know if these are a better recording?
regards
Gary

As Steve said, it is a strip of paper. It comes from the japanese word for "sash" ie the sash that ties a kimono or martial arts gi together. It is used in the descriptor to let the prospective buyer know that the obi IS included in the packaging, as originally purchased, and as such is in more mint condition and hence more valuable. It has nothing to do with the aural quality of the item. It is decorative and descriptive only.

Some of them are and some of them are not - there is no general rule. They are however highly collectible and folks spend hours discussing on how to best preserve the OBI strip.
You can find 100s of long threads on each of the Pink Floyd albums & best version on the SH forum.

Just one example:
http://www.stevehoffman.tv/forums/showthread.php?t=151778&highlight=pink+floyd

Thanks MilesSmiles, hard to believe there are so many different copies......very interesting link. Thank you
Gary

Never ever throw your OBI's away. Biggest mistake if you are collecting Japanese pressings.

It can sometimes double the value of your disc.

quote:

Originally posted by ewemon:
Never ever throw your OBI's away. Biggest mistake if you are collecting Japanese pressings.

It can sometimes double the value of your disc.

Very true, I learned this the hard way - threw them all away until a few years ago. However, since I'm not planning to sell any of them I don't mind too much.