BACK TO 78s: If you’re still a...

BACK TO 78s: If you’re still a low-tech pop fan, don’t let all that talk about CDs and DAT throw you. In fact, the always-offbeat Rhino Records is about to revive the oldest disc format of them all--78 r.p.m. records. The label will announce plans this week to release “Jukebox Classics,” a 25-disc boxed set featuring 50 golden-age rock hits, including Jerry Lee Lewis’ “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On” and the Chordettes’ “Mr. Sandman,” which were both at one time issued as 78s. Rhino co-chief Harold Bronson said the package, geared toward collectors whose jukeboxes only play the 78 format, was the first new release of 78s since the format lapsed in 1959.

“The toughest thing for us to find someone who could master the records, because most mastering studios don’t have machines that are compatible with 78s anymore,” Bronson said. “We ended up doing all of the mastering at a lathe in someone’s living room here in L.A.” Bronson said the set, which will retail in most stores for about $100, will include hits by the Everly Brothers, Dion & the Belmonts, the Olympics, the Chiffons and Rosie & the Originals.