Recording quality...


A lot of time here is spent discussing equipment, which is to be expected.  But even the best gear will not mask a lousy recording.  Let's face it, some labels use better recording equipment, microphone placement, mixing and so on to create stunning sound.  Other labels just don't sound as good.  

Case in point...when I purchase a recording, I'm looking for a recording date within the last five years.  I realize that some classic recordings took place years ago recorded with analog equipment, but it will still sound old on anything modern you play it on.  I'm not a big fan of remastering either.  Look, I realize that we can't bring back Miles Davis or get Pink Floyd back together to do a modern recording, but imagine if we could.

Once, when I was a kid, I was lucky enough to witness a live recording session in a real studio.  This was in the late 60s, when real musicians played real instruments.  They used these gigantic Scully tape machines with inch-thick Ampex 456 tape running at fast speed and a mixing board, which was the most modern recording equipment of the time.  Today, that equipment belongs in a museum, considering the modern tools that recording engineers have now.  

My point here is that great equipment is nice, but paired with a recent recording using modern tools, the sound is so much better.  Just my humble opinion.  What say you to this?
128x128mikeydee

Showing 1 response by falconquest

This has always been a challenge. We assemble incredible sound systems  and yet source material is just as important. Tell you what, I'll take those old Ampex recordings any day. Just listen to "Time Out"  from Dave Brubeck. This was recorded in the 50's and yet simply sounds outstanding!

My go to source for the best version of a particular CD (or LP) is the Steve Hoffman forum. Contributors often have listened to many versions of a given CD and will rank them for sound quality. Interestingly most are not newer recordings. The closer you get to the original master.....in most cases....the better the sound quality. Good luck with your search.