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
i picked up the last (only?) mono box set today from bestbuy in my town. i guess there are occasional benefits to living in a town where no one cares about quality music. had to call elusivedisc to cancel my order. i paid $250 for the mono box set after tax. i would have to wait until october and pay $245 from elusivedisc. i figure it's well worth the $5 extra.
Bongofury,

Can you tell me how the bass level sounds on "All My Loving" off "With the Beatles" , with the new mono discs in comparison to the old?

I have been listening to my old issue CD copies of Please Please Me and With the Beatles. These do not sound bad but I think they could sound better, particularly in regards to soundstage and perhaps detail on some cuts.

The bass level in "All My Loving" in particular is quite low and buried and not clear in the mix in particular I notice on the old CD masters. Bass is not bad on most other cuts from these albums, but might be better I'm guessing.
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.
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.