The original Hip Pocket format ran from 1967-69 and included more than 60 titles. The records measuring just 3 7/8 inches were manufactured in either 33-1/3 or 45 rpm speeds and could be played on a standard turntable that did not auto-return the tone arm.
The format aimed at the “music-loving young set,” who want their music “portable, low-priced and groovy”, boasted a versatility ahead of it’s time, enabling kids to carry up to 50 of the virtually indestructible, wafer thin releases at a time.
Ace’s new CD based Hip Pocket series (measuring 4 7/8 inches) presents classic albums from the Ace vaults in replica LP packaging. More titles will follow over the next few months. Please note these releases unfortunately still require laser pick up rather than tone arm and belt drive to perform. We're hopeful that the new format will encourage the people in hardware-land to develop a battery operated "single-play" style Hip Pocket CD player..no news as yet on this though.
For full details see releases/products below.
