Born to Run: Why the Poor Sound Quality?

Hi Onhwy61,

This is intended to be plain English, not hyperbole. And no, there's nothing wrong. They all sound like hash, grating to my ears with little bottom end and the vocals lost somewhere in the mix. All 'cept for maybe the anniversary release of BTR which sounds acceptable. Others have commented on the wall of sound approach, but.... Given S'steen's supposed meticulous approach in the studio, it's surprising.

Agree with Astewart8944. I actually think that is a small (and I mean small) reason why Springsteen has always sounded better live. The studio team holds the sound back and the constant redoing no doubt robs a sense of spontaneity and excitement that comes through so much better in the live performances. Love the Boss and have seen him at least 50 times since I first saw him in 75, but have generally been disappointed in the tin ears of all involved in his studio work with the exception of those albums mentioned above. Hopefully, the sound on the latest effort is a harbinger of good sound to come.

I guess it depends upon what "listenable" means, Lenny : ) I listen, but usually while I'm doing something like cleaning the house.

I agree with other comments, and would add The Rising to the "better sound" pile. Definitely agree that Bruce's sound could be so much better. Re not hearing much bass: The River and Born in the USA are major examples.

p.s. Darkness has some great dynamic range, e.g., Streets of Fire and Something in the Night.