This compilation takes a track each from the first ten releases of the King Crimson Collectors' Club, which releases Crimson and Crimson-related material by subscription only through Robert Fripp's website, disciplineglobalmobile. The sound quality varies from decent to excellent, but where the sound quality suffers, the performance makes up for it. Obviously, the Collectors' Club is geared toward the serious King Crimson fan, but this overview (available without subscribing) is also good for those wanting to hear what the band has sounded like in a live setting over the years, without popping for the whole series. A Beginner's Guide also acts as a buying guide to more dedicated listeners, by allowing them to "test drive" various releases in the club, and deciding which releases appeal to them the most. Of course, the real hardcore fans know that they need to own it all (that's what the Collectors' Club is all about), but A Beginner's Guide offers a taste to those who aren't sure whether they fit into that category. -- Sean Westergaard (allmusic.com)