Digitally remastered vinyl record? Seriously?

Regarding recordings from the 80's, like "Joshua Tree", I think there is still merit in some records made during that time period, however mastered, over many CDs made then when the technology was still new. CD sound quality overall did not mature really until perhaps the early mid 90's. Modern DACs used in a lot of home gear has come a long way in the last 5-10 years or so to finally complete the puzzle, "loudness wars" related issues aside.

For a recording from teh 80s like "Joshua Tree", these days, I would probably look first to a good modern digital remaster on CD or higher res if available and desired. The vinyl version might still be top notch as well. Digital remastering done well is usually a boon, not a curse.

MBLfan,

I would assume you are an "MBL fan"? Me too.

I have heard a top notch mbl setup expose weaknesses in format and/or recording quality in a/b comparisons. With a good mbl setup, one is likely to be able to hear any limitations in detail or dynamics incurred anywhere in the recording and manufacturing process, be they a result of analog or digital technologies.

I agree with you. It was funny but there was a thread quite a while ago that asked folks to pick their reference (whatever that means) LPs and a surprising number of those picks were from digital sources. So we may, very well, be in the minority.

Things like Dire Straits "Brothers In Arms" and Jennifer Warnes "Famous Blue Raincoat" seemed to bubble up to the surface repeatedly. There is no accounting for taste - mine included - but on LP these are chalky and hard sounding at best.

Generally, I would rather just buy the CD if something is sourced digitally.

this and that cd or not cd, but they sound definitely different vs. cd weather it's one or another's choice to buy either digitally remastered vinyl or cd.

Personally, I may never buy a "new" record again.

But always on the lookout for old releases in good playing condition, especially when they come on the cheap. I'll listen to almost anything for a couple bucks and there are many sonic treats out there from the golden age of vinyl, prior to digital taking over almost completely.