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Beatles Remasters: Mono vs. Stereo Debate Thread

On September 9th, the entire Beatles catalog will be released in both mono and stereo remastered versions.

The issue of this thread is simply mono or stereo, and why? I only have the stereo CD versions that were available in the mid to late 1990s. I am too young to remember the original releases.

Until the albums are released, I'd like to get your take on the issue based on what has been on the market up to this point. After they are released, I'd like to hear from people who purchase either the stereo, mono, or both of the new reissues.

What are the pros and cons of the different mixes? Which do you plan on purchasing, if any? Discuss.
blackstonejd
wildoats
339 posts
 
I got my mono box on 9/9/09 and have only listened to a few cuts from a few of the discs but I am very happy with the sound. I have heard things I never heard before especially little guitar licks that weren't audible before. It it also very evident how good Ringo is on drums and Paul on bass, way more prominent. I will get the later albums in stereo as I understand Mr. Martin fixed the stereo as opposed to the earlier mixes. Listening using my dads old 75 watt pioneer receiver (1975 in years too)as my other amp went TU. I think when I get a real amp this stuff will really kick.
barrelchief
290 posts
 
If you know, please chime in and let me know if the mono remastered cd's can be bought individually, or if they are only available as a boxed-set. Thanks.
synthfreek's avatar
synthfreek
627 posts
 
Do the monos have the quicktime movies?
cyclonicman
693 posts
 
Barrelchief, as of now, mono versions are only available by purchasing the boxed set. Originally limited to 10,000 sets in the USA, now supposedly issuing 50,000 mono boxed sets.
shadorne's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
shadorne
7,333 posts
 
Barrelchief, as of now, mono versions are only available by purchasing the boxed set. Originally limited to 10,000 sets in the USA, now supposedly issuing 50,000 mono boxed sets.

Given that the MONOS seem to be in hot demand and are generally regarded as "better" - what is the chance that the public reaction might cause Recording Labels to actually sit up and take notice???

Here we have a contest between the latest and greatest stereo brick wall limited compression "loud" mastering techniques (state of the art for 2009 and done extremely well - i.e. just the "right" amount of compression according to modern standards) and the old tube based mastering consoles and mono recordings of the 60's??

Would it not be funny if Record Labels discover that people prefer the more natural uncompressed sound of the older material - even in MONO!!!

It would be a revelation, a massive eye opener to the industry if 60's MONO is competitive and judged by many to be BETTER sounding than modern "State of the Art" loud hot compression!
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