Thanks Michael, I just recently bought UK -2 -1 press, and it just wiped the floor with the remix. Keep up the good work, and looking forward for more comparisons like that. Regards!
I'm with you on this Michael. I bought a near mint first pressing of the UK -2/-1 Abbey Road earlier this year and it blew my mind how fantastic it sounds. I have not heard anything sound as good as this original version cut by Malcom Davies.
Watching this with great anticipation. I have the -2 -1 OG pressing with no "Her Majesty" - I play it at least once a week, its my favorite stereo Beatles record.
The French contract is tied with that pressing. I have the first pressing uk misaligned apple pressing and I can confirm they sound very alike. The French might be a but more bass heavy tho and the harmonies might be a little better too.
Hey Michael! Another exciting video, especially for OBC members, as it’s confirmation that OG Dave really does come up with the goods. Missed yesterday’s livestream but watched it later and it just increased my excitement to see where this all goes. Very appreciative as always for your efforts! Much support and positive vibes!
Yeah, Abbey Road never needed a remix. It would've been so much better if the 50th anniversary box had simply included a new all-analog cut of the original master, plus the session outtakes.
Not true at all. Listen to the remixed version of 'here comes the sun" and now Georges voice is in the middle of the soundstage. Thats nice isnt it? I like to listen to both mixes and have different experiences with the music. Why are people like you so damn closeminded? Its baffling to me.
@@timlejon3302 Hey Tim - I replied to your comment earlier today, but now my response seems to have disappeared. In any case, the gist was that I've bought all of the Beatles remix boxes on vinyl and CD, and I certainly wouldn't spend all that money if I wasn't open to hearing something new! I've enjoyed checking them out, but with Abbey Road in particular, I think it's hard to argue that it "needed" a new mix -- it was one of the most beloved albums ever recorded in its original form. All the remastering and remixing can be fun, but because there hasn't been a AAA pressing from the original master in many, many years, it feels like the digitally remastered 2012 version and the 50th remix could begin to "replace" the original Abbey Road rather than augmenting it. (My worry, which is hopefully unfounded, is that the OG Abbey Road master tape just isn't in good enough condition to do another AAA cut.)
Another great video worthy of the Heidelberger Landstraße! I recently did a shootout of 1978’s Who Are You original pressing, compared to the 2015 remixed CD & the latest Geffen/UMe pressing on 180g. OMG! This is like watching Keith Moon being erased from The Who. Someday there will be a remix of this album whereby the drums cannot be heard at all.
I found a 1978 Japanese Toshiba “Pro-use” pressing in a bulk but recently and it’s the best I’ve yet to hear. Detailed, punchy, and the dead quiet vinyl is just stunning.
Dear Michael, first of all many thanks for the really inspiring videos and the fantastic summaries. I fully endorse with the comment from Oliver H below, please compare your UK first press with the MFSL - version from the mid 80's ... Would be interesting to hear your judgement, finally......... cheers and all the best from Bremen, Andreas
Wow just posted 4 hours ago?? That’s about the same time I just bought my original first U. K. Print -2, -1 in New Mexico U. S. WOW!! Me and You Bro!!😎😎🤘🤘
You build such great narrative around your reviews and also it takes me back to albums. I dug out the Japanese Pro-Use series (EALF-97001) which many people think is the premium pressing ( and goes for big money). I always find Japanese pressings have such a delicate feel , but sometimes a touch of brightness. I then dug out what I thought was my 1st UK pressing with the minus 1 /minus 2 matrix only to find that it is actually a french pressing on pathe marconi ( but in a UK sleeve). thats the next listen !
I recently tried picking up a french contract pressing and thought i would be getting the -2,-1 uk metal work on it but it had another matrix number "M6" with various other numbers and letters lol i wonder if its still the same pressing cause it still sounds amazing compared to the misaligned uk pressing.
This is great timing for me, as I JUST got my OG -2/-1 UK pressing a few weeks ago. Early one with no listing of "Her Majesty" on the label or back cover, and misaligned Apple on the back.
My old Mobile Fidelity is superb. Not sure what people have against it, but the bass is clear and present. The vocals are in the room with you. I doubt I'll ever get access to the UK copy you have but I'm happy with mine.
Lol I’m with you. Moff sounds great to me. I also have a -2/-1, but I haven’t been able to play records for a while so I can’t remember how they compare. Who cares ? It’s the bloody Beatles, shut up and enjoy it !
I have the MoFi, too, and was so proud I had it. I compared it to a German original 1969 pressing recently and to a later (also German) analogue DMM pressing. Both were superior. The problem with the MoFi is the midrange: the voices don't hover in the air above the instruments as they should, they are cornered by bass and treble and lose their impact. Mid-range guitars, also. The DMM pressing is a bit bass heavy, but wonderfully precise, and the old 1969, although fairly battered, is still a very satisfying experience on decent equipment. I guess that the UK original, which I haven't got, will be even better. Hard to find a copy without wear, though.
Dear Michael, First of all, compliments for your really good and inspiring videos, i really like them. You should try the Mofi Version as well, which i personally favor over the remaster. Would be interersting to conmpare with your obviously fantastic Pressing. Keep spinning, Oliver
Great presentation Michael. You are right Michael,John Lennon was more part time member by this stage.Amazing to think John wasn’t even in the studio to record Something & Here comes the Sun. Meanwhile what a great job Malcolm Davis did cutting this masterpiece.It’s an honour to own this stunning version. The -2 -1 matrix wasn’t re-cut until late 74/early 75 of which Harry Moss took over cutting duties.His versions sound great but not in the same class as the -2 -1.There are copies out from early 70s very reasonably priced. Regarding the Giles Martin remix ,god only knows why Giles meddled with his father’s magnificent work. Take care Michael Looking forward to NY Crazy Horse album out tomorrow AAA 🙌😎
Many people say that, but if you actually look at the record, there is more Lennon music (Come Together, I Want You (She's So Heavy), Because, Sun King, Mean Mr. Mustard, Polythene Pam) measured by total time than Paul's. And, of course, "Come Together" was half the double-A side single from the album.
Michael welcome to the club. Abbey Road is my favorite album of all time and I have at least 25 different versions. Maybe 4 UK originals and to me they are the best. The Blue Box versions from late 70’s to early 80!s are excellent as are the Japanese Pro Use. Heck the German pressings are excellent too!
Thank you my fine German friend for giving me yet another chance to complain about the lack of gatefold in the Abbey Road "box set!" Looking forward to the 2029 Abbey Road remaster already ... WITH gatefold please!
Your videos are so informative! You pack a lot of information into a short video. I immediately went to Discogs and eBay to find a 1969 UK AR (-1-2) and found a good one at a decent price. Beatles are one of my favorite groups and this video helped me find a good pressing of one of my favorite albums. I'm curious how the AR from the stereo box set sounds compared to UK 1st pressing. The stereo box set got many rave reviews.
I am glad that I found this glorious -2-1 pressing in a German record store for 25€...it was Patrick The Vinyl Archivist who made me conscious that this is supposed to be the best pressing. It sounds marvelous. And it is in excellent condition too.
Yeah! Unfortunately I’m in the US and paid $125 USD for my original UK -2 -1 from Amoeba records. Worth every penny though. Sounds terrific and I hear so many things I previously missed especially the beautiful synths on “Here Comes The Sun”.., it really pops out and sounds so warm on the UK original.
@@Michael45RPM I got mine in last week. It’s a pristine vinyl. It blows away my American first pressing and my 40th. Definitely worth the hunt. And you can find it for around $80. Most are in the uk though.
The -2/-1 UK is definitely the best Abbey Road I've ever heard. I have the 3 LP set from 2019, the Japanese flag series and the MoFi, but that first UK matrix smokes everything. 👍
Parlogram Auctions also has a great video up regarding the Malcom Davis -2 -1 cut. The OG pressing of this record is the gem of my collection audio-wise. Thank you, Michael!
Very nice videos M. Me like. One question from way up north in Sweden: Whe you but on music of witch you have several pressings, wich one do you choose? Always the best one?
Wow Michael. That is an amazing review. Abbey Road is a brilliantly produced album that sounds fantastic. I would love to hear the pressing you got because you are spot on regarding the bass. I'm away to check prices. PS Lennon was always dismissive of Abbey Road. He wasn't present for a number of songs as he was in a car accident with Yoko. However he more than make up for it with I Want You (She's So Heavy) which is possibly my favourite Beatles song on AR.
I totally agree! This 1969 YEX 749-2/-1 pressing is absolutely brilliant, extremely great sounding with an amazing stage - it sounds just awesome! 😄Thanks for sharing, take care! By the way: do you wish to get another audiophile one? I highly recommend "Magical Mystery Tour Plus Other Songs" on the HÖR ZU Label, SHZE 327 A1/B3 matrix, released in 1973. But sure you know this one!
I just purchased a near mint copy of this UK pressing on ebay. I look forward to comparing it to the original mix on my MoFi original master recirding.
I've only got the 2019 3 LP set and I'm happy as Larry with it. Love the two outtake albums. More of an insight. I had the first release in Aussie back in 69, but it's long gone somewhere.
I have a misaligned apple original. It's in amazing condition and i still think it sounds incredible so never felt the need for a remastered copy. Sounds like I made the right call 😀
Great comparison. I think you did a video back when the 50th Anniversary came out. Agree on your opinion. I compared it to a German 3rd and a UK -3-4 HTM and both blow the new mix out of the water. But the new mix is just that a remix. The CD box is where its at. I had to buy both versions to get the book and fans complained enough that is why when Let It Be came out the simplified and have the CD and vinyl mirror, which is good so I only bought the vinyl Let It Be instead of having to buy both releases. Back to Abbey Road. The Box set was cut at Optimal which I have and its too quiet as well as too bass heavy. I also purchased the US copy which was cut at QRP and is a lot louder and cut hotter. But it has it downfall, while side 1 is far better on the QRP pressing it falls apart on side 2 medley and it just doesn't sound right. For Side 2 I prefer the Optimal pressing which is more balanced but still too bass heavy. Compared to the My UK and German, I like both but prefer the German pressing a bit more as it has great mids and highs and more bite. Not to say the HTM Solid State cut is bad, its just a little tamer.
Michael... If you want your wife to blindfold you and tie you to the chair, that is really your business. After all, you *ARE* German! 😂 J/K sir! Seriously, that was an amazing comparison. We should all be *EXTREMELY* thankful that you do these comparisons because this is truly vital and very important to know. Thank you!!!
For sure, of all the albums the Beatles made, Abbey Road is the best recorded one. Definitely sounds like they poured all their remaining creative output into it, most likely knowing it was their last one.
I had exactly the same experience when I got an original uk… it’s wayyyy better than anything else. It made me love abbey road so much, it has now become my favorite Beatles album.
As always, very interesting and helpful video Michael. I have the UK 3rd pressing (sounds very good) and also the box set, and prefer my vintage copy. Do you have a link to the first Abbey Road pressing on Discogs? Not sure which one is the first pressing!
You are NOT wrong! I have a few original -2/ -1 copies (including the very first issue with the misaligned Apple logo & text on the back cover, and no "Her Majesty" printed on the label); that pressing IS the best available! I have other pressings from later 70s and 80s which are very different - thin, lacking bass, etc. The original -2/ -1 was a masterpiece! 👍
My late 70's copy of Abbey Road has the heavy bass and crisp guitar as well as Billy's organ. My MOFI is very good but a little wonky in the mix. I grew up with 5 or 6 Beatles records on cassette so.....a big improvement!!!
Far more than the move to 8 track, The Beatles also moved to a solid state board. It was so shockingly different that it alarmed them, but obviously they ultimately embraced it. Us Beatle nuts talk about the "magic" of the early UK Abbey Roads. I have a -3 from 1970, and the magic is there. I suppose a first pressing may be better still, but that's hard for me to imagine. There are other Beatle gems out there that I consider audiophile. Early UK Please Please Me pressings are explosive, as it is essentially a "live in studio" recording of their Cavern set. Early UK stereo Beatles For Sale pressings also have that live feel. The studio ambience is really present on this one, often described as "holographic". And finally, unexpectedly, the US "Rock and Roll Music" comp has a very special side one. George Martin filtered the low end from the music channel and applied it the center of the soundscape, in essence a remix of these early tracks. (The UK version did not have this remix, as there was a rule at that time that the mixes could not be altered). So here we have a low generation mix that is simply oustanding. To me, these are the reference versions of these songs. So, there are more Beatle pressings to feature!
Another excellent "audiophile" Beatles pressing is the German Horzu MMT, 1973 pressing. You (Michael) should be able to find one pretty easy in Germany for a good price.
I have been enjoying your reviews very much lately. Your no nonsense style is very appealing. Can zi ask you where you got those glasses? Very striking.
I agree. I listened to the reissue of Abbey Road just once. The book is nice, though. Yes, you can’t beat the UK first pressings. Now, if only we can get UHQR version cut by Bernie, Ryan or Kevin from a tape copy of the master (why not, EMI?), that would be heaven!
I have that pressing of Abbey Road and it is WOW but listen to a mono SGT Pepper which is staggering.. Also listen to a "red Apple" Let It Be, for me on my system all the half speed remasters are poor. I have a variety of Abbey Road 1st pressings the Side A Run Out): YEX 749-2 Side B Run Out): YEX 750-1 is the best sounding
The original Red Apple label Let It Be is also a gatefold. I love it! I’m very pleased with this early pressing, but have nothing negative to say about the boxset. It’s different but still sounds good to my ears.
Michael, it will be very different to the remix etc, the old pressings rolled of the Bass and low frequencies, the new ones would be more of what they would have heard in a studio etc
@@gregles76 That's not correct. Abbey Road was recorded on 8-track, although Come Together started on 4-track and was dubbed to 8 track for subsequent overdubbing. The Beatles as a group never recorded on 16-track.
very interesting Michael I have a very early pressing which I now need to re-visit. could you explain how you identify the pressing you are talking about here?
Abbey Road the most sophisticated album ever made. Consider that George has TWO great songs ! That is three composers that all hit it out of the park - In America that means a grand slam in baseball nomenclature - The only thing I’ll never understand is why Paul decided it would be clever to put “ Her Majesty “ in the runout groove. To me it’s a novelty distraction to his magnum opus “ The End “ meaning “ And in the end, the love you take , is equal to the love you make AHH AHH “ That should have been the final word . John’s full of crap if he claims Abbey Road is his least favorite album ! He got his songs on Abbey Road ,a couple being filler - Polythene Pam - Mean Mister Muster - . He also had some classics on Abbey Road . I also have the first UK 2x1 pressing . You’re right the first 1969 pressing is as good as music gets . I’m glad I listened to your critique. Thank You…
Micheal, the 2019 was a complete remix by Giles Martin not a remaster. I too have the -2 -1 and yes it is stunning. The big difference in sound from previous Beatle albums was that it was recorded using a solid state mixing console rather the the valve one used on all other releases up to that point. The remix sounds pretty good on headphones but the original destroys it on a proper system.
Remind that the 2019 Abbey Road (50th anniversary) LP is a remix; not a remaster. Therefore the sound image may differ compared to the original LP album. The main release of The Abbey Road 50th anniversary edition was a limited 12” deluxe box/slipcase with CDs, Bluray and a beautiful book. The 3 vinyl box you refer to was a secondary release, less extragavant 😊
That’s right Harold. All anniversary releases up to and including The White Album prioritised the CD version for the deluxe treatment (more outtakes, lovely big book) They finally worked out that it was the vinyl most people were interested in and so started making both releases the same from Let It Be onwards. They are not so bright over at EMI it seems!
Again, a very nice video, Michael. However, of course, there's nothing "pseudo-scientific" about blind listening sessions if you compare it to a session in which you know exactly, which pressing is played. That's just very simple psychology if you already lean towards first pressings emotionally. Of course, that shouldn't play too much into your comparison, since the first pressing of "AR" is excellent (except for the panning on "Here Comes the Sun" that I just can't stand at all). Just saying that, generally speaking, blindtests always win over knowing what is playing...
There are UK -3 side one -2 side two lacquers which I heard a bit of each once and recall being on a par with the -2/-1. They do not seem easy to find and I do not think it's common to find both on the same record. I seem to remember they were mastered/cut shortly after the -2/-1, also by Malcolm Davies.
Sometimes I find it difficult to the find the Discogs record you have. If it’s not too much work and you already have it could you add the discog db reference to the description?
but the 50 yrs reissue is a new stereo mix. So that makes a lot of difference. And yes those new stereo mixes are made for the today market with lots of bass. Not my cup of tea.
I find myself agreeing with Michael regards the disappointing EQ profile of the 2019 remix. The listening experience was surprisingly dull and clearly missing, as Michael comments, the mid to high frequencies. An album that should have shimmered and shined with dynamic peaks and valleys sounded muted and distant, lacking emotion. My comparison, surprisingly, was a mid-to-late 70s, Capitol Canada Orange label pressing - I don't have the deep pockets for UK first pressings! I found it a much more balanced listen with the appropriate higher level frequencies present. I'd always regarded this pressing as being nothing to write home about and somewhat cold but in comparison with the 2019 remix it was more rounded. Compared to the other remixes, a definite disappointment.
I own at least 6 of these, half of them being with misaligned apples and one of them having a misprinted label. My only problem with the first pressing is how impossible it is to find a great playing copy. I Want You and The last half of the Medley become really distorted, to the point where the record becomes muddy and Ringo’s drums become unlistenable. My favorite pressing of this album is a 1978 Green Colored Vinyl reissue, which has a recut done by Harry Moss. Another great sounding pressing is a -4/-2U 1980 Harry Moss cut. Both retain the heavy bass, snappy drum sound, smooth vocals, and both don’t distort as easily as the ‘69 pressing does
Anything with Harry T Moss in the deadwax is "apparently" amazing. I have a HTM copy of Meddle that blows any other copy I've herd, away. By a lot. Even with the pops and clicks you can't deny the sound
I agree with everything you said, but I'm sorry you didn't include it in analysis Abbey Road 2009. remaster, who's the best for me...a dad is better than a son...
I have a mint 1973 Japan pressing Abbey Road that blows away the new pressings, although I enjoy the Giles remix of Abbey Road it's not in the same league sonically. The original UKs are all great sounding I have some of the Originals in Stereo and Mono and they are so enjoyable. Thanks
I think the criticism is a bit over the top. Yes, the purchased OG is probably the best sounding edition. But the comparison with the 2019 box is not fair, since it is a remix similar to Revolver. To give the remix a 4-5 is IMO unfair. It sounds good, but very different from the OG. Maybe it's because of your excellent music system that the differences are perhaps greater, but with me (I have both editions) the sonic difference can of course also be heard, but I don't feel it to be so glaring. That the Abbey Road box is inferior to the Revolver box because of the content is ok, but maybe there was not more material in sufficient quality. I would also have liked all Beatles album box sets to have the same look.
I also have an original UK press and it is of course phenomenon but to call the reissue a 4 or 5 is absurd. It’s one of the greatest albums ever made and a tenth generation dubbed cassette copy played through an old boom box is still gonna probably be a 6 so to say a reasonably priced and remastered version is only a 5 seems a tad hyperbolic. You can extol the virtues of the original without disparaging. I also feel it’s a tad showy and snobbish like “oh, look at me I have the best” while making folks who probably can’t or wouldn’t pay big bucks for an original feel less than. Two things can be true at once. Also despite whether or not there is consensus it’s still all subjective. To say any record is definitively better is a fallacy it’s simply different and perhaps more preferable.
What is it with those guys over at Abbey Road, Michael? Is it that they know that the Beatles will sell regardless of what they do or don’t do with their pressings? So, they don’t get a guy like Bernie Grundman or Kevin gray to do the re-masters? I don’t get it!
The 50th Anniversary is a Giles Martin and Sam Okell remix. It definitely has more bottom and the rest of the album sounds like it was mixed down. It just sounds softer in different parts of the songs. I have an original 1969 US Jacksonville pressing that absolutely smokes the remix. It’s in VG++ condition! I also do not like the Sgt Peppers anniversary remix. My 1978 Capitol repress even sounds better. Those 2 albums did not need any type of improvement. The old saying “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” applies to this situation.
Great as usual, Michael. In many ways the recorded sound of 'Abbey Road' was a foretaste of what was to come in the production quality of numerous records that came out of studios in New York and especially California in the early '70s. Listening now to records as disparate as 'Can't Buy a Thrill' and 'Toulouse Street' you can hear how far analog recording for rock records had come by '72 (a singularly fantastic year for music, period). Still in the pre-Dolby age, 'Abbey Road' somehow achieved that 'smooth' sound well ahead of anyone else, so much so that it sounds like an early '70s recording more than any other album I can think of from 1969. I let my original of this go too long ago to remember, but I content myself now with a 'blue box' (analogue) HTM cut and a mint Toshiba Pro-Use pressing.
@@Michael45RPM mal sehen....Werde die mal mit auf die UK Liste setzen 😉. Habe gestern verstanden, dass es in England kein großes Problem ist noch an M- Exemplare dran zu kommen. PS: Der live Chat gestern war super...alles cool und schön transperent. Grüße
These comparison videos are so insightful and educational.But at the same time must be so disheartening for people getting into vinyl and who do not have the resources to seek out early pressings. Just a thought…..
Hi Michael, ive picked up a UK Abbey Road, matrix on side 1 is YEX 749-2 Side 2 is YEX 750-2. It looks like an early pressing, is this the one you have?
Basically, Giles Martin couldn't mix a cake. I find all of his remixes are too bass heavy. The only reason for buying them is for the original mono mixes and the outtakes and demos. Revolver is probably his best effort but still falls into the same trap on several songs. The best remix was done by Peter Cobbin on Yellow Submarine Songtrack. I'm sure some people like Giles Martin's remixes, but some people like Mrs. Brown's Boys.
the long and short of it is that analog tapes decay and deteriorate. you really cant lose when you have the originals. thank god ive been in the game a long long time. original wins...again and again. no one wants to hear it...
Sometimes, sometimes not. If anyone can point to an OG of Pet Sounds that comes near to certain later pressings I will eat a hat of their choosing. For the record my personal top marks go the 1972 repress, followed by Kevin Grey’s efforts and the bog standard Capital 50th mono.
According to the Abbey Road engineers, the tapes are in very good shape. It just needs really good mastering/cutting engineer to cut the album properly. The 2019 edition is not even the original stereo mix, it's a remix.
If you’re an audiophile an abbey road original is the only one worth having. Some originals might be better than represses but not by a significant amount where it justifies spending hundreds more. This original abbey road could be bested if they repress it the same way they did the red and blue albums in 2014.
John Lennon was on Heroin during Abbey Road He couldn’t come together Does yours lp miss Her Majesty on the back cover and label? That’s the 1st press - fabulous They were not going to put it on the record initially so it is a hidden track On an early version of the medley from the box Polythene Pam climaxed to Her Majesty (poor choice) - not Came in through the bathroom window Thought you were going to hype the GERMAN Horzu Magical Mystery Tour - killer sounding stereo on the correct release Don’t like the reissues sound quality outside of the mono boxset Lack air and tweak bass and other things in the REMIX
Thanks Michael, I just recently bought UK -2 -1 press, and it just wiped the floor with the remix. Keep up the good work, and looking forward for more comparisons like that. Regards!
Michael...I agree with you....I was lucky to get one of these several months ago, and indeed it blew away every other copy I had! Chapeau:):)
I'm with you on this Michael. I bought a near mint first pressing of the UK -2/-1 Abbey Road earlier this year and it blew my mind how fantastic it sounds. I have not heard anything sound as good as this original version cut by Malcom Davies.
Fascinating...and very good to know...thank you you Michael! Cheers! 😉
Great overall view of Abbey Road. It’s such a great album. Enjoyed the video.
Watching this with great anticipation. I have the -2 -1 OG pressing with no "Her Majesty" - I play it at least once a week, its my favorite stereo Beatles record.
The French contract is tied with that pressing. I have the first pressing uk misaligned apple pressing and I can confirm they sound very alike. The French might be a but more bass heavy tho and the harmonies might be a little better too.
Hey Michael! Another exciting video, especially for OBC members, as it’s confirmation that OG Dave really does come up with the goods. Missed yesterday’s livestream but watched it later and it just increased my excitement to see where this all goes. Very appreciative as always for your efforts!
Much support and positive vibes!
How can I connect with OG Dave ?
Yeah, Abbey Road never needed a remix. It would've been so much better if the 50th anniversary box had simply included a new all-analog cut of the original master, plus the session outtakes.
Preach Derek!
Not true at all. Listen to the remixed version of 'here comes the sun" and now Georges voice is in the middle of the soundstage. Thats nice isnt it?
I like to listen to both mixes and have different experiences with the music. Why are people like you so damn closeminded? Its baffling to me.
@@timlejon3302 Hey Tim - I replied to your comment earlier today, but now my response seems to have disappeared.
In any case, the gist was that I've bought all of the Beatles remix boxes on vinyl and CD, and I certainly wouldn't spend all that money if I wasn't open to hearing something new! I've enjoyed checking them out, but with Abbey Road in particular, I think it's hard to argue that it "needed" a new mix -- it was one of the most beloved albums ever recorded in its original form.
All the remastering and remixing can be fun, but because there hasn't been a AAA pressing from the original master in many, many years, it feels like the digitally remastered 2012 version and the 50th remix could begin to "replace" the original Abbey Road rather than augmenting it.
(My worry, which is hopefully unfounded, is that the OG Abbey Road master tape just isn't in good enough condition to do another AAA cut.)
Another great video worthy of the Heidelberger Landstraße! I recently did a shootout of 1978’s Who Are You original pressing, compared to the 2015 remixed CD & the latest Geffen/UMe pressing on 180g. OMG! This is like watching Keith Moon being erased from The Who. Someday there will be a remix of this album whereby the drums cannot be heard at all.
Have you heard the 1983 Polydor HMV pressing of Who’s Next. It’s pretty damn good.
I found a 1978 Japanese Toshiba “Pro-use” pressing in a bulk but recently and it’s the best I’ve yet to hear. Detailed, punchy, and the dead quiet vinyl is just stunning.
Thanks once again for your honesty
Dear Michael, first of all many thanks for the really inspiring videos and the fantastic summaries. I fully endorse with the comment from Oliver H below, please compare your UK first press with the MFSL - version from the mid 80's ... Would be interesting to hear your judgement, finally......... cheers and all the best from Bremen, Andreas
Wow just posted 4 hours ago?? That’s about the same time I just bought my original first U. K. Print -2, -1 in New Mexico U. S. WOW!! Me and You Bro!!😎😎🤘🤘
You build such great narrative around your reviews and also it takes me back to albums. I dug out the Japanese Pro-Use series (EALF-97001) which many people think is the premium pressing ( and goes for big money). I always find Japanese pressings have such a delicate feel , but sometimes a touch of brightness. I then dug out what I thought was my 1st UK pressing with the minus 1 /minus 2 matrix only to find that it is actually a french pressing on pathe marconi ( but in a UK sleeve). thats the next listen !
I recently tried picking up a french contract pressing and thought i would be getting the -2,-1 uk metal work on it but it had another matrix number "M6" with various other numbers and letters lol i wonder if its still the same pressing cause it still sounds amazing compared to the misaligned uk pressing.
This is great timing for me, as I JUST got my OG -2/-1 UK pressing a few weeks ago. Early one with no listing of "Her Majesty" on the label or back cover, and misaligned Apple on the back.
Hmm, I better get on Dave's list for one of those.
My old Mobile Fidelity is superb. Not sure what people have against it, but the bass is clear and present. The vocals are in the room with you. I doubt I'll ever get access to the UK copy you have but I'm happy with mine.
Lol I’m with you. Moff sounds great to me. I also have a -2/-1, but I haven’t been able to play records for a while so I can’t remember how they compare. Who cares ? It’s the bloody Beatles, shut up and enjoy it !
I have the MoFi, too, and was so proud I had it. I compared it to a German original 1969 pressing recently and to a later (also German) analogue DMM pressing. Both were superior. The problem with the MoFi is the midrange: the voices don't hover in the air above the instruments as they should, they are cornered by bass and treble and lose their impact. Mid-range guitars, also. The DMM pressing is a bit bass heavy, but wonderfully precise, and the old 1969, although fairly battered, is still a very satisfying experience on decent equipment. I guess that the UK original, which I haven't got, will be even better. Hard to find a copy without wear, though.
Dear Michael, First of all, compliments for your really good and inspiring videos, i really like them. You should try the Mofi Version as well, which i personally favor over the remaster. Would be interersting to conmpare with your obviously fantastic Pressing. Keep spinning, Oliver
Great presentation Michael.
You are right Michael,John Lennon was more part time member by this stage.Amazing to think John wasn’t even in the studio to record Something & Here comes the Sun.
Meanwhile what a great job Malcolm Davis did cutting this masterpiece.It’s an honour to own this stunning version.
The -2 -1 matrix wasn’t re-cut until late 74/early 75 of which Harry Moss took over cutting duties.His versions sound great but not in the same class as the -2 -1.There are copies out from early 70s very reasonably priced.
Regarding the Giles Martin remix ,god only knows why Giles meddled with his father’s magnificent work.
Take care Michael
Looking forward to NY Crazy Horse album out tomorrow AAA 🙌😎
Many people say that, but if you actually look at the record, there is more Lennon music (Come Together, I Want You (She's So Heavy), Because, Sun King, Mean Mr. Mustard, Polythene Pam) measured by total time than Paul's. And, of course, "Come Together" was half the double-A side single from the album.
Michael welcome to the club. Abbey Road is my favorite album of all time and I have at least 25 different versions. Maybe 4 UK originals and to me they are the best. The Blue Box versions from late 70’s to early 80!s are excellent as are the Japanese Pro Use. Heck the German pressings are excellent too!
Thank you my fine German friend for giving me yet another chance to complain about the lack of gatefold in the Abbey Road "box set!" Looking forward to the 2029 Abbey Road remaster already ... WITH gatefold please!
Excellent video Michael! Thanks for posting. That album is one of my choices for the first order
Your videos are so informative! You pack a lot of information into a short video. I immediately went to Discogs and eBay to find a 1969 UK AR (-1-2) and found a good one at a decent price. Beatles are one of my favorite groups and this video helped me find a good pressing of one of my favorite albums. I'm curious how the AR from the stereo box set sounds compared to UK 1st pressing. The stereo box set got many rave reviews.
I have an original -1 -2 copy and it is still one of the best sounding pressings I own. Well worth grabbing if you come across one in good condition.
I have 2 now lol best pressing ever
I am glad that I found this glorious -2-1 pressing in a German record store for 25€...it was Patrick The Vinyl Archivist who made me conscious that this is supposed to be the best pressing. It sounds marvelous. And it is in excellent condition too.
This is amazing.... and a big score
Yeah! Unfortunately I’m in the US and paid $125 USD for my original UK -2 -1 from Amoeba records. Worth every penny though. Sounds terrific and I hear so many things I previously missed especially the beautiful synths on “Here Comes The Sun”.., it really pops out and sounds so warm on the UK original.
All the UK pressings of Abbey Road get excellent reviews re SQ.
@@Michael45RPM I got mine in last week. It’s a pristine vinyl. It blows away my American first pressing and my 40th. Definitely worth the hunt. And you can find it for around $80. Most are in the uk though.
The -2/-1 UK is definitely the best Abbey Road I've ever heard.
I have the 3 LP set from 2019, the Japanese flag series and the MoFi, but that first UK matrix smokes everything. 👍
Parlogram Auctions also has a great video up regarding the Malcom Davis -2 -1 cut. The OG pressing of this record is the gem of my collection audio-wise. Thank you, Michael!
Yes indeed...it was Parlogram's video that got me to get one of these. What a gem!!
@@michaellourie4252 Me too, with the misaligned Apple logo. It sounds great!
Very nice videos M. Me like. One question from way up north in Sweden: Whe you but on music of witch you have several pressings, wich one do you choose? Always the best one?
in 90% of the time i do
Wow Michael. That is an amazing review. Abbey Road is a brilliantly produced album that sounds fantastic. I would love to hear the pressing you got because you are spot on regarding the bass. I'm away to check prices.
PS Lennon was always dismissive of Abbey Road. He wasn't present for a number of songs as he was in a car accident with Yoko. However he more than make up for it with I Want You (She's So Heavy) which is possibly my favourite Beatles song on AR.
OG listener here, the muddiness, sound stage has a character, which the band heard as a band and approved back in the day with the then technology.
I totally agree! This 1969 YEX 749-2/-1 pressing is absolutely brilliant, extremely great sounding with an amazing stage - it sounds just awesome! 😄Thanks for sharing, take care!
By the way: do you wish to get another audiophile one? I highly recommend "Magical Mystery Tour Plus Other Songs" on the HÖR ZU Label, SHZE 327 A1/B3 matrix, released in 1973. But sure you know this one!
The 1973 French/UK contract pressing is up there too!
Great video Michael, I need this pressing. Abby Rd is one of my favorites
join the OBC :-)
I have plans to, that said I have a very cool story to tell you. Something awesome is happening because of this video :)
I just purchased a near mint copy of this UK pressing on ebay. I look forward to comparing it to the original mix on my MoFi original master recirding.
I've only got the 2019 3 LP set and I'm happy as Larry with it. Love the two outtake albums. More of an insight. I had the first release in Aussie back in 69, but it's long gone somewhere.
wow...thanks Michael for spittin the truth as always
I have a misaligned apple original. It's in amazing condition and i still think it sounds incredible so never felt the need for a remastered copy. Sounds like I made the right call 😀
Great comparison. I think you did a video back when the 50th Anniversary came out. Agree on your opinion. I compared it to a German 3rd and a UK -3-4 HTM and both blow the new mix out of the water. But the new mix is just that a remix. The CD box is where its at. I had to buy both versions to get the book and fans complained enough that is why when Let It Be came out the simplified and have the CD and vinyl mirror, which is good so I only bought the vinyl Let It Be instead of having to buy both releases. Back to Abbey Road. The Box set was cut at Optimal which I have and its too quiet as well as too bass heavy. I also purchased the US copy which was cut at QRP and is a lot louder and cut hotter. But it has it downfall, while side 1 is far better on the QRP pressing it falls apart on side 2 medley and it just doesn't sound right. For Side 2 I prefer the Optimal pressing which is more balanced but still too bass heavy. Compared to the My UK and German, I like both but prefer the German pressing a bit more as it has great mids and highs and more bite. Not to say the HTM Solid State cut is bad, its just a little tamer.
Michael... If you want your wife to blindfold you and tie you to the chair, that is really your business. After all, you *ARE* German! 😂 J/K sir! Seriously, that was an amazing comparison. We should all be *EXTREMELY* thankful that you do these comparisons because this is truly vital and very important to know. Thank you!!!
Of course we WILL want pictures... especially if things get lively! 😁
For sure, of all the albums the Beatles made, Abbey Road is the best recorded one. Definitely sounds like they poured all their remaining creative output into it, most likely knowing it was their last one.
I had exactly the same experience when I got an original uk… it’s wayyyy better than anything else. It made me love abbey road so much, it has now become my favorite Beatles album.
The second UK (1985) -6/-4 Harry Moss remaster is absolutely fantastic, and even beats out the -2/-1 original IMO.
As always, very interesting and helpful video Michael. I have the UK 3rd pressing (sounds very good) and also the box set, and prefer my vintage copy. Do you have a link to the first Abbey Road pressing on Discogs? Not sure which one is the first pressing!
You are NOT wrong! I have a few original -2/ -1 copies (including the very first issue with the misaligned Apple logo & text on the back cover, and no "Her Majesty" printed on the label); that pressing IS the best available! I have other pressings from later 70s and 80s which are very different - thin, lacking bass, etc.
The original -2/ -1 was a masterpiece! 👍
My late 70's copy of Abbey Road has the heavy bass and crisp guitar as well as Billy's organ. My MOFI is very good but a little wonky in the mix. I grew up with 5 or 6 Beatles records on cassette so.....a big improvement!!!
I have the second UK pressing Michael and it also is stunning
Far more than the move to 8 track, The Beatles also moved to a solid state board. It was so shockingly different that it alarmed them, but obviously they ultimately embraced it.
Us Beatle nuts talk about the "magic" of the early UK Abbey Roads. I have a -3 from 1970, and the magic is there. I suppose a first pressing may be better still, but that's hard for me to imagine.
There are other Beatle gems out there that I consider audiophile. Early UK Please Please Me pressings are explosive, as it is essentially a "live in studio" recording of their Cavern set.
Early UK stereo Beatles For Sale pressings also have that live feel. The studio ambience is really present on this one, often described as "holographic".
And finally, unexpectedly, the US "Rock and Roll Music" comp has a very special side one. George Martin filtered the low end from the music channel and applied it the center of the soundscape, in essence a remix of these early tracks. (The UK version did not have this remix, as there was a rule at that time that the mixes could not be altered). So here we have a low generation mix that is simply oustanding. To me, these are the reference versions of these songs.
So, there are more Beatle pressings to feature!
Dear Michael. I’ve got the 1969 german pressing in very good shape . Sounds good to me. But is that pressing realy so much worser?
Another excellent "audiophile" Beatles pressing is the German Horzu MMT, 1973 pressing. You (Michael) should be able to find one pretty easy in Germany for a good price.
Hi Michael (and Dave), I have a beautiful NM UK -4/-2 pressing here. Would that compare to the -2/-1 to your knowledge?
I have been enjoying your reviews very much lately. Your no nonsense style is very appealing. Can zi ask you where you got those glasses? Very striking.
I agree. I listened to the reissue of Abbey Road just once. The book is nice, though. Yes, you can’t beat the UK first pressings. Now, if only we can get UHQR version cut by Bernie, Ryan or Kevin from a tape copy of the master (why not, EMI?), that would be heaven!
I have that pressing of Abbey Road and it is WOW but listen to a mono SGT Pepper which is staggering.. Also listen to a "red Apple" Let It Be, for me on my system all the half speed remasters are poor. I have a variety of Abbey Road 1st pressings the Side A Run Out): YEX 749-2 Side B Run Out): YEX 750-1 is the best sounding
The original Red Apple label Let It Be
is also a gatefold. I love it! I’m very pleased with this early pressing, but have nothing negative to say about the boxset. It’s different but still sounds good to my ears.
Michael, it will be very different to the remix etc, the old pressings rolled of the Bass and low frequencies, the new ones would be more of what they would have heard in a studio etc
The 2019 pressing is not the original 1969 stereo mix but a new remix from the original multitracks.
also it was there only album recorded in 16 track not 8 as mentioned in the video.
@@gregles76 That's not correct. Abbey Road was recorded on 8-track, although Come Together started on 4-track and was dubbed to 8 track for subsequent overdubbing. The Beatles as a group never recorded on 16-track.
very interesting Michael
I have a very early pressing which I now need to re-visit. could you explain how you identify the pressing you are talking about here?
You an see it in the Matrix
@@Michael45RPM thanks Michael. I don't have the -1-2 pressing - shame, but still a great record!
Abbey Road the most sophisticated album ever made. Consider that George has TWO great songs ! That is three composers that all hit it out of the park - In America that means a grand slam in baseball nomenclature - The only thing I’ll never understand is why Paul decided it would be clever to put “ Her Majesty “ in the runout groove. To me it’s a novelty distraction to his magnum opus “ The End “ meaning “ And in the end, the love you take , is equal to the love you make AHH AHH “ That should have been the final word . John’s full of crap if he claims Abbey Road is his least favorite album ! He got his songs on Abbey Road ,a couple being filler - Polythene Pam - Mean Mister Muster - . He also had some classics on Abbey Road . I also have the first UK 2x1 pressing . You’re right the first 1969 pressing is as good as music gets . I’m glad I listened to your critique. Thank You…
Micheal, the 2019 was a complete remix by Giles Martin not a remaster. I too have the -2 -1 and yes it is stunning. The big difference in sound from previous Beatle albums was that it was recorded using a solid state mixing console rather the the valve one used on all other releases up to that point. The remix sounds pretty good on headphones but the original destroys it on a proper system.
Remind that the 2019 Abbey Road (50th anniversary) LP is a remix; not a remaster. Therefore the sound image may differ compared to the original LP album. The main release of The Abbey Road 50th anniversary edition was a limited 12” deluxe box/slipcase with CDs, Bluray and a beautiful book. The 3 vinyl box you refer to was a secondary release, less extragavant 😊
That’s right Harold. All anniversary releases up to and including The White Album prioritised the CD version for the deluxe treatment (more outtakes, lovely big book) They finally worked out that it was the vinyl most people were interested in and so started making both releases the same from Let It Be onwards. They are not so bright over at EMI it seems!
it's both remixed and remastered, you can't have a remix without making new masters but you can remaster without remixing ;)
I have this early pressing with the misaligned apple on the back cover and it is my go to out of the 30 or so copies I have.
"Dam it, what have they done to the bass" I had to laugh 😂
There were eight-track-recordings by The Beatles before the "Abbey Road" album. "Hey Jude" for example.
Again, a very nice video, Michael. However, of course, there's nothing "pseudo-scientific" about blind listening sessions if you compare it to a session in which you know exactly, which pressing is played. That's just very simple psychology if you already lean towards first pressings emotionally.
Of course, that shouldn't play too much into your comparison, since the first pressing of "AR" is excellent (except for the panning on "Here Comes the Sun" that I just can't stand at all). Just saying that, generally speaking, blindtests always win over knowing what is playing...
There are UK -3 side one -2 side two lacquers which I heard a bit of each once and recall being on a par with the -2/-1. They do not seem easy to find and I do not think it's common to find both on the same record. I seem to remember they were mastered/cut shortly after the -2/-1, also by Malcolm Davies.
Michael :
The 2009 Remaster is a wonderful update of the original master. I prefer it.
The 2019 remix was a letdown.
I have the -2/-1 and the -4/-3. The -2/-1 definitely sounds better. Tough to find a clean one anymore though!
cool review !
Sometimes I find it difficult to the find the Discogs record you have. If it’s not too much work and you already have it could you add the discog db reference to the description?
Michael, I’ve heard the best sounding Abbey Road is the Ampex US reel to reel from 1970. Have you heard this as well?
but the 50 yrs reissue is a new stereo mix. So that makes a lot of difference. And yes those new stereo mixes are made for the today market with lots of bass. Not my cup of tea.
I find myself agreeing with Michael regards the disappointing EQ profile of the 2019 remix. The listening experience was surprisingly dull and clearly missing, as Michael comments, the mid to high frequencies. An album that should have shimmered and shined with dynamic peaks and valleys sounded muted and distant, lacking emotion. My comparison, surprisingly, was a mid-to-late 70s, Capitol Canada Orange label pressing - I don't have the deep pockets for UK first pressings! I found it a much more balanced listen with the appropriate higher level frequencies present. I'd always regarded this pressing as being nothing to write home about and somewhat cold but in comparison with the 2019 remix it was more rounded. Compared to the other remixes, a definite disappointment.
I own at least 6 of these, half of them being with misaligned apples and one of them having a misprinted label. My only problem with the first pressing is how impossible it is to find a great playing copy. I Want You and The last half of the Medley become really distorted, to the point where the record becomes muddy and Ringo’s drums become unlistenable. My favorite pressing of this album is a 1978 Green Colored Vinyl reissue, which has a recut done by Harry Moss. Another great sounding pressing is a -4/-2U 1980 Harry Moss cut. Both retain the heavy bass, snappy drum sound, smooth vocals, and both don’t distort as easily as the ‘69 pressing does
Anything with Harry T Moss in the deadwax is "apparently" amazing. I have a HTM copy of Meddle that blows any other copy I've herd, away. By a lot. Even with the pops and clicks you can't deny the sound
I agree with everything you said, but I'm sorry you didn't include it in analysis Abbey Road 2009. remaster, who's the best for me...a dad is better than a son...
I have a mint 1973 Japan pressing Abbey Road that blows away the new pressings, although I enjoy the Giles remix of Abbey Road it's not in the same league sonically. The original UKs are all great sounding I have some of the Originals in Stereo and Mono and they are so enjoyable. Thanks
Abby Road is my favorite of the post Help Albums.
I have the 2-1 pressing cannot be beat.
I think the criticism is a bit over the top. Yes, the purchased OG is probably the best sounding edition. But the comparison with the 2019 box is not fair, since it is a remix similar to Revolver. To give the remix a 4-5 is IMO unfair. It sounds good, but very different from the OG. Maybe it's because of your excellent music system that the differences are perhaps greater, but with me (I have both editions) the sonic difference can of course also be heard, but I don't feel it to be so glaring. That the Abbey Road box is inferior to the Revolver box because of the content is ok, but maybe there was not more material in sufficient quality. I would also have liked all Beatles album box sets to have the same look.
im with you I have an OG to and the remix and I like the remix very much. I also have a atmos surround system it sounds unbelievable in atmos,
I also have an original UK press and it is of course phenomenon but to call the reissue a 4 or 5 is absurd. It’s one of the greatest albums ever made and a tenth generation dubbed cassette copy played through an old boom box is still gonna probably be a 6 so to say a reasonably priced and remastered version is only a 5 seems a tad hyperbolic. You can extol the virtues of the original without disparaging. I also feel it’s a tad showy and snobbish like “oh, look at me I have the best” while making folks who probably can’t or wouldn’t pay big bucks for an original feel less than. Two things can be true at once. Also despite whether or not there is consensus it’s still all subjective. To say any record is definitively better is a fallacy it’s simply different and perhaps more preferable.
Another great one. Does anyone know if there were 2 versions cut of Abbey Road in 69? Mono + stereo?
stereo only.
@@gregles76 thank you!
What is it with those guys over at Abbey Road, Michael? Is it that they know that the Beatles will sell regardless of what they do or don’t do with their pressings? So, they don’t get a guy like Bernie Grundman or Kevin gray to do the re-masters? I don’t get it!
Abbey Road and Sgt Pepper's both won best engineered recording Grammys.
@Michael- if you don’t mind how much this OG copy of Abbey Road cost you ?
this really varies depending of the condition Amitava
Nice video!
Any Rolling Stones UK OG coming your way?
yes and video too
The best thing about replacing the other copy with the UK pressing? The UK pressing takes up almost no shelf space
The skinny laminated jacket on mine is pretty dang thin now as well!
Micheal do you have any plans to do Sgt Pepper Mono/Stereo originals versus remix
no comparison they are 2 completely different things. You really can only compare the same mixes across different pressings, in my view.
@@gregles76 Erm yes you can
The 50th Anniversary is a Giles Martin and Sam Okell remix. It definitely has more bottom and the rest of the album sounds like it was mixed down. It just sounds softer in different parts of the songs. I have an original 1969 US Jacksonville pressing that absolutely smokes the remix. It’s in VG++ condition! I also do not like the Sgt Peppers anniversary remix. My 1978 Capitol repress even sounds better. Those 2 albums did not need any type of improvement. The old saying “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” applies to this situation.
Great as usual, Michael. In many ways the recorded sound of 'Abbey Road' was a foretaste of what was to come in the production quality of numerous records that came out of studios in New York and especially California in the early '70s. Listening now to records as disparate as 'Can't Buy a Thrill' and 'Toulouse Street' you can hear how far analog recording for rock records had come by '72 (a singularly fantastic year for music, period). Still in the pre-Dolby age, 'Abbey Road' somehow achieved that 'smooth' sound well ahead of anyone else, so much so that it sounds like an early '70s recording more than any other album I can think of from 1969. I let my original of this go too long ago to remember, but I content myself now with a 'blue box' (analogue) HTM cut and a mint Toshiba Pro-Use pressing.
Hi Michael, was hast Du da für eine Ausgabe UK first oder .....?
Grüße aus der Eifel
Ja genau
@@Michael45RPM mal sehen....Werde die mal mit auf die UK Liste setzen 😉.
Habe gestern verstanden, dass es in England kein großes Problem ist noch an M- Exemplare dran zu kommen.
PS: Der live Chat gestern war super...alles cool und schön transperent.
Grüße
It looks like Abbey Road album from The Beatles Collection BC13.
These comparison videos are so insightful and educational.But at the same time must be so disheartening for people getting into vinyl and who do not have the resources to seek out early pressings. Just a thought…..
Hi Michael, ive picked up a UK Abbey Road, matrix on side 1 is YEX 749-2 Side 2 is YEX 750-2. It looks like an early pressing, is this the one you have?
No.
YEX 749-2, YEX 750-1
Sorry yes, side 2 is YEX 750-1
They aren’t the same.. the 2019 is a remix not a remaster. They are intended to sound different.
Just more evidence Giles doesn’t know what he’s doing
Basically, Giles Martin couldn't mix a cake. I find all of his remixes are too bass heavy. The only reason for buying them is for the original mono mixes and the outtakes and demos. Revolver is probably his best effort but still falls into the same trap on several songs. The best remix was done by Peter Cobbin on Yellow Submarine Songtrack. I'm sure some people like Giles Martin's remixes, but some people like Mrs. Brown's Boys.
it's to compensate for the crappy bass you get for half-wit mastering that Miles Showell likes
Friend, I’ve never had a not bassy Abbey Road. It’s always been bassy to me. Am I wrong? I’m going to look for those matrixes
Have you heard of the French contract pressing? That's a beefy pressing
Sounds like you've been hanging out at Tom Port's house!
Just wondering if the OBC membership is planning on being opened up again?
it will eventually happen....
@@Michael45RPM Thanks! looking forward to it! :) Enjoying the channel very much!
How dies one actually find these -2 -1 runout pressings on Discogs? Is there a way to search the varoius pressing out?
On Discogs... hmmm not that easy
@@Michael45RPM If not on Discogs where else?
Just type into discogs Abbey Road YEX 149-2 YEX 150-1
the long and short of it is that analog tapes decay and deteriorate.
you really cant lose when you have the originals. thank god ive been in the game a long long time.
original wins...again and again.
no one wants to hear it...
Sometimes, sometimes not. If anyone can point to an OG of Pet Sounds that comes near to certain later pressings I will eat a hat of their choosing. For the record my personal top marks go the 1972 repress, followed by Kevin Grey’s efforts and the bog standard Capital 50th mono.
According to the Abbey Road engineers, the tapes are in very good shape. It just needs really good mastering/cutting engineer to cut the album properly. The 2019 edition is not even the original stereo mix, it's a remix.
If you’re an audiophile an abbey road original is the only one worth having. Some originals might be better than represses but not by a significant amount where it justifies spending hundreds more. This original abbey road could be bested if they repress it the same way they did the red and blue albums in 2014.
Hey Michael why don't you talk about the best German band in my opinion ELOY- timeless masterpiece
one by one.... it will happen eventually
John Lennon was on Heroin during Abbey Road
He couldn’t come together
Does yours lp miss Her Majesty on the back cover and label?
That’s the 1st press - fabulous
They were not going to put it on the record initially so it is a hidden track
On an early version of the medley from the box Polythene Pam climaxed to Her Majesty (poor choice) - not Came in through the bathroom window
Thought you were going to hype the GERMAN Horzu Magical Mystery Tour - killer sounding stereo on the correct release
Don’t like the reissues sound quality outside of the mono boxset
Lack air and tweak bass and other things in the REMIX