

Big Star – Third (Ardent Studios Test Pressing)
An original Ardent Studios test pressing of Big Star’s third album, commonly known as Third (or Sister Lovers). Housed in a plain sleeve annotated "Big Star 3rd Album," this is a rare production copy from one of the most celebrated and elusive albums in American rock history.
Recorded between 1974 and 1975 at Ardent Studios in Memphis, Third remained unreleased in its intended form for several years, becoming one of rock’s most mythologised lost albums. Led by Alex Chilton, the record departed from the power-pop sound of the band’s earlier releases in favour of deeply personal, experimental songs including "Kanga Roo," "Holocaust" and "Take Care." Though commercially overlooked at the time, it has since been recognised as a landmark recording, influencing generations of alternative and indie musicians.
Produced in extremely limited numbers for internal review during the manufacturing process, test pressings such as this were never intended for commercial sale and are considerably scarcer than standard releases.
This example comes directly from the personal collection of Mary Cobra (Mary Ramirez), founding guitarist of The Detroit Cobras, whose archive reflects a lifelong appreciation for influential rock and independent music.
Key Details & Collectability
- Original Ardent Studios test pressing of Big Star’s Third.
- Plain sleeve annotated "Big Star 3rd Album."
- Produced in very limited numbers for internal production and quality control.
- One of the most acclaimed and influential cult albums in rock history.
- From the personal collection of Mary Cobra (Mary Ramirez) of The Detroit Cobras.
- A highly desirable production-era artefact for collectors of Big Star.
Pairs well with
Provenance
Disclaimer: Use of Recorded Material or Photography
By bidding on or purchasing any item from this collection that includes recorded audio material (such as master tapes, demo recordings, or unreleased sessions), or photography you agree to the following terms:
- These recordings and photographs are sold strictly for private, non-commercial use by the winning bidder only.
- Ownership of the physical item does not grant any rights to the underlying recordings, compositions, performances, images or intellectual property. All rights remain with the original rights holders.
- You may not reproduce, copy, distribute, publish, share, broadcast, perform, licence, monetise, or otherwise exploit them in any form.
- They must not be shared with third parties in any format, whether for free or for financial gain.
- Any unauthorised use may result in legal action, including claims for copyright infringement, injunctive relief, and recovery of damages and legal costs.
By proceeding with a bid or purchase, you confirm that you understand and accept these terms in full.
As a condition of sale, purchasers of recorded media, photographs, or other copyrighted materials may be required to sign a transfer agreement acknowledging that ownership of the physical item does not confer any intellectual property, copyright, publishing, master recording, or exploitation rights in the underlying works.
Before you bid
Before you bid:
Please note that, on top of the final bidding price, you (the buyer) will be charged the following:
- Buyer premium of 20% on top of the final hammer price. E.g. for a winning bid of $100, you will pay $120 plus shipping, insurance, and taxes. The buyer premium helps us invest in curation, appraisals, verification, content and platform development.
- Shipping, packing, insurance & handling costs - see 'shipping' section below for more details
- Import duties and taxes - these vary by location and are payable by the buyer upon delivery, if applicable
Shipping & insurance
Shipping method: All orders are shipped tracked.
Insurance: For all orders over $200 we will include 1.3% on top of the hammer price to cover insurance.
Packing: We work with trusted packing teams to ensure the best delivery of your items. This will be added to the final cost.
Expected delivery: Item ships 2 weeks after auction closes. Delivery time varies by location.
The bidding process
We run a popcorn bidding process. This means that if you put a bid in within the last minute of the auction, the clock will extend for another 5 minutes. This allows everyone time to get their bids in fairly.
The Yardbirds – Having a Rave Up Signed LP
Detroit Grande Ballroom – A Tribal Rock Flow Concert Poster
The Vapors – Second Album Test Pressing
Beach Boys Test Pressing – Celebration Festival (Annotated)
Johnny “Bee” Badanjek Stage Suit
WAX POETICS LIMITED PRINT: MAVIS
WAX POETICS LIMITED PRINT: KING
WAX POETICS LIMITED PRINT: KEB
Frankie Crocker WBLS Subway Sign
If you have any questions, you are always welcome to contact us. We'll get back to you as soon as possible, within 24 hours on weekdays.
-
Shipping Information
Use this text to answer questions in as much detail as possible for your customers.
-
Customer Support
Use this text to answer questions in as much detail as possible for your customers.
-
FAQ’s
Use this text to answer questions in as much detail as possible for your customers.
-
Contact Us
Use this text to answer questions in as much detail as possible for your customers.













































































































































