Thanks for the kind words, Scott. I especially appreciate your observations on the design and the level of care we brought to this very important record!
Hey Scott, another wonderful review. I was listening to this album just the other day and lo and behold your review appears, I have the AP 33 and it sounds great and is dead quiet, a true classic. Stay well.
Thank you so much Scott for another wonderful review!!! Everyone at Impex Records appreciates your enthusiasm and attention to the details of our musical sound quality and packaging. I'm sorry to see the oil spot on your slipcase. I would be crying as well. I've asked Elusive Disc to help and ship a replacement slipcase to you. 🤗 Cheers-
It was my pleasure to review this marvelous release. I was just amazed at how perfectly every detail was attended to. The sound quality is sublime. Thank you to you and your team for the extraordinary care in everything you do. Thank you so much for helping to get a replacement slipcase. I'm so grateful to have a perfect set!
Aww thank you! I'm glad you enjoyed it! It's nice to know I have a fan in Switzerland! I think you will find exactly what I described on your new One Step. Hope you love it!
Hi Scott, great commentary. My copy will find its place in my collection on Saturday if all goes well with the delivery. If anything anyone can take away from this review is that this release is a must have. For those who don’t want to spend the money, as you pointed out, there are other comparable options available. Anyone who is new to record collecting, this is a title that needs to be included. Impex does a great job with their releases(One Step and non One Step) I was over the moon with excitement when they announced this release Cheers and thank you for sharing your experience with us.
Hi Brian! I'm sure you will appreciate everything that was done with this superb release. I imagine you probably have one or more pressings of this, and frankly most sound excellent, but this presentation, both physical and sonically was such a delight to me. Hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
I've heard nothing but good things about this Impex release. It is very tempting to buy it. Since I have two very nice copies of the album already, it's hard to make the leap to buy this more expensive version. I will have to think about the importance of the album to me. Thank you for the excellent review of the album; I really got a good feel for the quality of this album. 👍👍👍
It's very understandable to be hesitant about an expensive release like this. As I said, there are wonderful, fully satisfying copies out there, in print. It's a different approach to the sound, and I hope you can here it somewhere first before making the plunge. There should be plenty of time to read or view other reviews before they eventually sell out.
If I were just a jazz guy, I'd probably buy the album, but I love so many genres of music. I like to spread my money around and diversify my collection with high spots from other artists in other genres. Since I'm on a budget and have storage space limitations, I have to be careful about what I buy. With what I would pay for the one Impex album, I can buy three or more other albums and get to hear even more music.
@@audiophileman7047 The I wouldn't worry about it. Enjoy the copies you have. I'm sure they are enough for this record. You can enjoy watching the reviews but get some other music you really love it's all about the music after all and you have this music already. Sometimes the hobby can make us do things that don't make sense! Believe me, I know!
Yes, there is a method to my madness, and the great Bluesville (AS) series will begin later this year. It's very hard to find those blues records in NM originals without paying a fortune. I decided to limit my collection to what will fit on my record storage shelves. After that, I have to get rid of records when I want to buy others. That forces me to choose wisely these days. @@ThePressingMatters
Im doing the same thing, and I've already reached my maximum. Stuff has to be weeded out. But once it's gone I don't miss it. Fortunately I can house about 2,000 on my shelves but not one more!
Hi, It seems someone at Impex is going to try and source one for a replacement for the damaged slipcase. I'm thrilled about that! I'm glad you enjoyed the review. Thank you for your comment!
Thank you Anthony. By the way, to anyone reading this comment, Anthony did a beautiful written review on the Audiophilia website. Please check it out for even more insight.
Spot on review, Scott! I ordered my copy from Elusive Disc within a day or two of the prerelease announcement. Received it on Friday and played it yesterday. I am amazed at how good it is. Everyone, from the Getz family to Impex to Bernie Grundman and to Elusive Disc deserves the highest of praises in creating this pinnacle release. My copy is number 0257/7500.
Excellent! Thank you so much for letting me know your impression of it. I was very careful to be thorough in describing exactly what I heard, and you are the second to comment that is was right on the money! Enjoy, my friend!
I am getting so excited as my Impex copy has been shipped! I have never heard this record so my take on it will be a virgin experience! Your explanation of the whole project and process made me take a leap of faith!
This was a wonderful review. I could hear the joy in your voice. I only have the AP 33 rpm version so I am looking forward to hearing this one. The packaging looks great and I hope you are able to get a replacement for your cover. Those things happen to all of us. 🤗 Take care.
Hi Melinda! Thank you so much. I truly am excited by this release, it was hard to hide it! Yet I tried to give everything a fair and balanced assessment. All different, all great. I hope you enjoy this release as I have been.
I hope you love this one as you do your previous copy. You'll have two of the best, each offering a different look at this landmark recording. Spend some time with the Impex and its beauty will be revealed.
@@ThePressingMatters Absolutely. I was thinking that it would be difficult for Impex to get to the level of AP45rpm, given it is so much above other vinyl versions I heard (all you have mentioned bar the Mofi), but now I'm prepared to be flabbergasted.
Scott, I have the AP 33 rpm pressing and that pressing sounds incredible to me. I thought long and hard about whether or not to buy this issue but decided to pull the trigger. After your review I’m super excited to hearing this reissue. Thanks for the review.
You're welcome and I hope you like this edition as much as I do. I suggest setting a special quiet night, release any expectations, and take the whole thing in, in one sitting. You'll hear the differences I described, and the honest, unadorned and intimate nature of this presentation should win you over.
Great review ! I was hesitant about ordering another copy of this recording but after your review I'm especially looking forward to hearing it (my copy should arrive this weekend). Maybe Impex / Elusive Disc might send you a copy of the Jennifer Warnes - Famous Blue Raincoat 1 Step. I still haven't pulled the trigger on that one. Would love to see a review. Thanks again for this revealing review.
Thank so much for your comment. I really enjoyed doing this one, and tried to give all these pressings their due. But after all the back and forth was over and I really focused on the One Step exclusively is when my appreciation deepened. Each time I play it I find something else to love. I hope you have the same experience. Famous Blue Raincoat is a favorite record. I do have an original and the older 3LP 45. I would love to get the One Step now after experiencing this one. I know I could do justice to the music and the record's importance, with some interesting comparisons.
Your review sounds about as precise and resolute as the pressing you review! My parents basement was the same in the 1970s where they held their monthly "disco parties" . My dad spent some time in South America in the 1960s and brought his love for bossa nova into the basement as well.
Your comment made me smile! It's funny how that lounge trend started to take shape in America with the hi-fi boom of the late 50's. The console stereo was a big part of it. It was still a 'cocktail culture' so a place for dad to listen to his records undisturbed or for the couple to entertain with the smoking and drinking away from the main household made perfect sense.
You're welcome. I think you'll hear the differences I spoke about. Nuance and subtlety are the keywords here. Two different approaches, each equally valid and thrilling. You'll love how you can see into the One Step. It's so quiet it's like Joao is singing right across from you!
Hi Scott, I knew this was gonna be great but I still planned to not buy it. Competing demands on my financial resources, running out of space for additional records, etc etc. But after watching this, I immediately placed my order. I loved everything about this video, from your personal story, which led nicely into your discussion of the music and its impact, and everything else. Fantastic comparisons, too, as is your standard. Impex is indebted to you. And so am I. Best, Ron C.
Hi Ron, I think you'll find my descriptions accurate and knowing your system this is going to be reproduced beautifully. I look forward to hearing back with your thoughts on it. Thanks for the kind words on my presentation.
@@ThePressingMatters Holy ****. What a magnificent record. The whole package, really. I knew this Impex One Step would sound amazing, but I can't buy every UHQR/OneStep etc, and I already have a NM 1982 Japanese pressing I'm pretty happy with. The thing about your excellent video that convinced me to buy this (and this will reveal how superficial I am, probably) is your description of the exceptional attention to every detail and every aspect of the package, including not just SQ but also the book & packaging, getting the cover just right, the texture of the outer box, everything. Most of my OneSteps and UHQRs have nice packaging but any extras aren't especially meaningful. The music of course is most important. But for me, part of why I love vinyl is the entire experience, the tactile experience of the jacket and full-size photos & notes, compared to the miniature versions in CDs or nothing with hi-res streaming or hi-res downloads. But even on SQ alone, this Impex release is super worth it. My Japanese pressing is very nice. But the Impex really drew me in and allowed me to experience more fully the emotional impact of this music. I've only had this for 3 hours and I've already listened to it 2 times. And a brief comparison with my Japanese pressing. Anyway, now that I know how happy this release makes me, I really don't care about having spent $130 for it. It's so worth it. Thanks again for another killer video essay on such an important release of such an important and joyous record. Warmly, Ron
@@rc2257 So I'm still at 100% 😁 I LOVED reading your review. I could feel your excitement. I can tell you appreciate what they did with this gorgeous, thoughtful presentation. Those kind of things bring me joy. But the sound of the record is something I noticed it took a few plays to truly reveal its unique beauty. It's so disarming the first time you hear it. The resolution is stunningly good. You're the first to comment, thank you so much for letting us know about your experience! Take care, Scott
@@rc2257 The bonus cuts are pretty special too and actually are quite welcome after the main record. It was fun to hear the radio edit of Ipanema in glorious mono! Astrud centered! The live Cocovado is nice in its slower pace and unadorned beauty.
Yes although i forgot to mention it in my review, I LOVED the bonus tracks. I usually don't like bonus tracks tacked on to a classic album but these were so special it worked beautifully.
Impex is a classy company and set a standard with sound and packaging imo. Ive never had a clunker and most of the time excellent sound. Sounds like a winner Scott. Thanks for an excellent review.
They really do reach for the top! How I would love to work for a company that has such high standards. I've never found anything with Impex that was less than excellent. Hopefully I will delve into some of their past releases I haven't gotten to, and will keep an close eye on the next projects they are working on.
Very good review. A great effort profuse in this one. I bought the Mobile Fidelity LP when it was issued in the '90 and I was suddenly amazed by the quality of the record: so smooth, so detailed, so present and natural. A sonic masterpiece of the era. And I never felt the need to buy one different pressing. But at this time I am bit curious and tempted to buy the Impex reissue. I will see. Thanks again
Hi Alexandre, Sometimes it's like that, and this album really inspired me. So beautiful, it would be a shame to hide the emotion. It makes the most compelling video.
Thank you for the review on this album, thoroughly enjoyed it and love the channel. We own Impex Records “Legrand Jazz” and just adore that record. Keep up the great work, looking forward to your next video Scott!🙏🏻🎧
You're welcome! Thank you for watching and commenting! Legrand Jazz has been on my wishlist for some time. I'd better pull the trigger before it disappears. I think you'll like what's coming up next!
Scott , again thank you for your reviews . Yes your reviews do encourage me to play my records . Your review of this double album gave me confidence to buy the albums because you speak so passionately and cleverly about it. It is a wonderful pressing Scott , thank you . Regards Bruce .
Hi Bruce, Thank you so much. I just found this message in the "held for review" section which i rarely check. Thank you so much for your contribution to the channel. Its much appreciated!
Love what you are saying about having earned a *greater appreciation* for Stan Getz playing due to this great pressing! That right there alone is worth the price of admission!
Great review and this 1step series that Impex are doing are outstanding. I do hope you get a replacement outer case , they are beautiful and my favourite out of the high end boxed . Cheers Scott for your honest opinion 🎉🎉😁
Thank you, and I agree, the effort and results achieved are outstanding. I hope I can get a replacement too. It's too beautiful to be marred by an unighy stain!
@@ThePressingMatters it was great! Angie and you had a lot to show. Great stuff! You know so much! Thank you for sharing the knowledge. Love you Blessings
Scott loved the review I almost passed on this one but I went and preordered it I love this album ever since I heard it in the mid 90’s I discovered it . I own the AP 45 which I like but as the years goes on these reissues are digging so deep in to the music is which I’m so interested in.
It does dig deeper, and I think you'll be glad to have both. The Impex is a slightly more nuanced approach. Try to let it sink in because it's distinctive qualities will reveal themselves more with repeated listening.
@@ThePressingMattersScott I received my copy Friday and threw it on on Saturday late night Wow Bernie did a magnificent job it’s like Getz and Gilberto is in my living room simply stunning . I love the packaging too the book is so detailed I was on the fence glad I grabbed it take care Scott have a great week.
Very thoughtful and insightful review, Scott. I’d love to hear one of these on a really top system but until then I’ll make do with my, slightly crackly in places, mono 1964 pressing
@@ThePressingMatters Hopefully you will find one and be able to do a review of that, Scott. I’ve cleaned my copy a couple of times and improved it a lot but I’d love to see what an ultrasonic cleaner or similar would do as it’s not scratched at all just 60 years accumulation of dust etc in places.
@@ThePressingMatters Scott, as a result of this conversation I’ve gone back to my mono album and given it an even more intense cleaning than I normally would. I used my carbon record brush to get the record cleaning fluid deeper into the groove than how my normal cleaning would do. Maybe it’s not the correct use of the brush (I made sure it was gentle sweeps with it) but the results have been great. I’ve now got hardly any crackling on it and it sounds superb, to me at least. I’ll give it one more cleaning and that should suffice, I hope you have success in tracking one down.
I’ve learned to trust your reviews, and this does sound like a attempting purchase. However, I’m very happy with my AP 45. It’s going to be a tough decision for me!
Hi Chris, Thank you for your confidence in me. If you love the AP 45, and who wouldn't, I think you are good. The One Step is an expensive proposition for someone that's already spent $60 on a copy of this. The AP is presented beautifully, less elaborate for sure, but elaborate costs money. Both equally valid masterings, different approaches. I expect this to be around for a while. Why not take in some more reviews and then make a decision?
Hi Scott, have you tried putting talcum powder on the oil stain? It makes wonders and in most cases works. Just sprinkle a little bit then gently, very gently rub it over the stain with your finger and give it 15min to half hour for the powder to do its job. Who knows, it might work.
It would be great if they did others in this series that Getz played on during this time. Great great record and would consider if I didn't already have the AP 45 rpm already.
Hi Scott, I've never owned Getz/Gilberto. The Impex reviews piqued my curiosity, so I streamed from the Verve 2014 CD remaster. The stereo version sounded weird, the mono version sounded glorious. To be fair, the streamer settings were not optimum (later changed) but I felt no reason to go back to the stereo. I later found out the 2014 stereo is not liked by music forums. A tidbit from other reviews, some Gilberto & Jobim studio chatter on first meeting Getz "This dude can't play". Well he doesn't play in the style they were used to but it works. Cheers!
Waiting for my copy to come! Good review of the recording I like the packaging better than the UHQRS as they are pretty bulky Can’t wait to hear how this sounds
Scott! yet another great video, love the detail and comparisons of the different pressings. I also love your childhood memories as mine were similar but I'm a bit younger. For me , it was memories of my grandparents 1950's house in Tacoma, complete with a sunken den, a hi-fi system, aquariums, a full bar, comfy furniture, and records like this! As someone who may appreciate the record from afar and own a pretty noisy version, which one would you recommend? I'm also on a budget. I'm leaning towards the acoustic sounds 180g Marino pressing, but I might be able to be convinced to go 45rpm. I do own several 45rpm records and understand the difference but still, i'm just not sure. Thank you and so sorry about your oil stain! I hope Impex can fulfill your request. Cheers! Todd
Thank you, and I loved your memories of that special time! I think in your case, go for the AS Verve 33. It's $33.00 right now on Amazon, and it's a great deal for an excellent sounding record. The jacket is also very nice. If you decide to go that route, you can order it through my storefront, listed in the description box of every video, and you'll be helping to support the channel as well!
I think both 45s are essential. I loved each of them for different reasons. I'm going to dive in deep with the Impex for a few months and consider adding the AP down the road.
Hi Tara! I must try one of Kevin's original productions. I think I'll order that too and do something on it for a video. People that push the boundaries like Kevin and Impex deserve a spotlight on their work.
@@ThePressingMatters Not sure, that's interesting. Rick is running the MFSL Fidelity plant and I think he has been with them since 2022. They were scheduled to start pressing last year but didn't start until thi year. I wonder if the credits went to press before he left, or he may still have plated it while doing double duty for RTI and Fidelity?
@@leea202 it's possible that this was pressed much earlier than we might think. Or, that the jacket was printed well ahead of time, before he moved to the new plant. This project has been in the production phase for years. I'll try to tack down the information but I believe I heard that it was five years from start to finish. Perhaps Abey or someone from Impex will clarify this for us.
@@leea202 The print materials were made in 2022/2023. Rick and Bryce played a big part during the QC phase of each stamper made but Rick was not at RTI when the record was pressed.
@@abeyfonn6397 Abey, Thanks for such a quick response to our question. I'm looking forward to receiving my copy and thank you for this great One Step! I wasn't sure the record could be improved upon from AP's 45 RPM release but the Impex One Step has received nothing but rave reviews! Great job!!!
The AP 45 is better than the 33. The MoFi is slightly bloated in the bass, but it's still very pleasing. They chose, intentionally, to use the reverse channel used in the original. AP notably corrected that with their 45. The Verve 33, as I recall (I had a copy, but no more) was newly cut by Ryan K Smith.
I think the jacket was mislabeled as many were printed ahead of time when they intended for Ryan to cut them. In this case it was later decided to use the existing Marino mastering.
Jeff, I will humbly have to disagree that the MFSL (technically not a "MOFI" by the way 😉) is bloated in the bass. This is too what I thought until I revisited it through Scott's system and through my own system which digs way deeper. I was prepared to deem it overly ripe, even overbearing at the bottom but to my surprise, it was not. Yes through Scott's system it sounded fuller but at no point did we feel it was bloated or out of control in any way. Oddly, what I got through my system was much greater control with greater sense of foundation. Surely my more massive & inert analog rig has a lot to do with this, not to mention the higher-res cart and world-class phono stage. But yeah, bottom line, bass is not bloated on the MFSL (not MOFI). What it is, is a highly romanticized / sweeter version of the same music. Personally, I absolutely love it. Best regards, Oz LTBS
@@ThePressingMattersIs the AP45 the same Marino mastering as the Acoustic Sounds Verve 33? So one's just 45, the other 33? All thing being equal, i.e. mastering, I'm not usually bothered about the 45 over the 33.
The AP Verve 33 sounds SO constrained next to the AP 45. They don't sound like they're the same mastering. I still have the MoFi Anadisc. I'll do a fresh comparison with the AP45. But they, too, had a noticeably different presentation from each other. I remember the AP 45 having a more controlled, tuneful lower end, and the Mofi's lower end being bigger and softer. Again, I'll do a fresh listen and report back.
I might have the CD too but no CD playback in the system at this time. It might be close to the LPs but I think in this case the AP 45 or if you want to splurge on the One Step, might bring you closer to the music.
I have 7500 albums. This may very well be the best sounding album I own. If I have a gripe, it would be that it looks like they mixed up identification of Jobim and Gilberto in the captions to the booklet photos.
Yes it was about five, with two big drops super obvious. I was sble to source a new case thanks to Abey and Elusive Disc and it stays in the shrink wrap until I find the right sleeve.
@@ThePressingMatters I love vinyl records and I know what it's like when something happens to a beloved record. It hurts so much. My copy is already waiting for me at my local Hi-Fi store. It's great that you managed to get a new case. :)
@@sebastianandmusic I was pretty much heartbroken thinking I'd ruined such a beautiful jacket, and knowing full well that inventory on this release was really strictly controlled. Thankfully, all is well now! Cant wait to hear what you think! Could you return here and let us know?
@@ThePressingMatters Hello. I bought my copy on Friday. What a beautiful edition. For now it is still wrapped in foil. To open such a beautiful album, I have to do it properly, i.e. with a glass of wine. Thank you for review.
For the hell of it, I gave it another listen, but the result is the same...it just isn't for me. Big fan of Getz, and I know this record has a faithful following, but it just turns me off. Nonetheless, I champion Impex in a big way and I hope they keep releasing albums manufactured at this top notch quality, whether I'm a fan of the release at the time or not. Well done. Appreciate your passion.
Thank you. I know it might sound like heresy, but I wouldn't mind hearing an isolated version with just guitar piano percussion and vocal. Bet it would be an interesting listen!
Pinnacle of record production? Well, maybe for now until the next pinnacle of record production. That has been the history of remasters. I own an original LP the first verve CD and the Mobile Fidelity CD. When I have done listening tests, what surprises everyone, myself included at just how good the MF CD is. It sounds like it was cut from a completely different and clearly better source. If I make a rip of the Mobile Fidelity it still will sound better than any other CD, the original, and on par(maybe not quite) with the MF Anadisc LP. My biggest issue with the 45RPM stuff is the physical space and the constant getting up to change sides. As I have gotten older the appeal for that has waned plus the additional stuff added I could care less about. Now I'm deciding b-4 I head out whether to get Kim Gordon's new recording, "The Collective" on vinyl or CD. Hmmmmmm.
Thank you for your comment. By "pinnacle of record production" I mean that they used every possible tool at their disposal to give this the chance at being the best sounding version of the album. I feel 45rpm certainly is one of those tools. Yes I don't always like getting up to change sides but I feel the benefit sonically is often worth it. I also meant the term pinnacle in reference to the whole project. There's no denying that the physical presentation is at the top of the heap. I no longer have the MFSL gold CD and I wish I did. I remember it being one of their best, and though I don't currently have digital in my system, I trust that what you say about it is true. Fortunately with this recording, whatever format you prefer, there is a great sounding version and at all price points.
@@ThePressingMatters I'd like to see your take on the Starker Bach Suites For Unaccompanied Cello. I loved these performances, saw him live, and met him at Jacob's School Of Music, all that before I knew anything about audiophile nerds who were told: "love these performances and never heard any others". I promise that I won't mention anything digital. When did mastering engineers become stars?
@@watdanuqta-mf5ms I don't have that Starker box at the moment. Way back when I was scouring every place I could find records, I found an original pressing of the three record set. It was so valuable, I sold it to someone overseas. Since then we have the AP and Speakers Corner, perhaps I'll try it out one day and review it. Awesome that you got to meet him. Mastering engineers have become stars in the last decade or so in the audiophile community. Bernie Grundman was well known much before that and has always been sought out. Robert Ludwig, Doug Sax, George Marino too. Now we have Kevin Gray, Ryan Smith, Matt Lutthans.
@@ThePressingMatters Let's not forget Stan Ricker. His name was front and center with the MOFI half speed masters reissues in the seventies. You know his test Lp with Cardas has some interesting tracks including an ultrasonic cleaning of your cartridge plus degaussing it plus your whole system. Also Stan insists that the record does a better job degaussing an LP than one of those battery operated devices. I questioned Cardas about that claim years ago and Stan himself responded in a sort of vociferous manner. I use all the time. Does it work? Not sure; I like to believe that it does. Part of my audio faith based(sometimes) philosophy. I'm tempted to get this copy if only because I love the record and I do not own any Impex pressings, at least I think I don't have any, and your enthusiastic review and others. There, my audio faith based(sometimes) belief system.
The recording is super smooth with the most amazing bass but the sax seems a bit hard and not smooth. Almost as if Stan's playing was mixed in later. Stan's playing is much smoother on Jazz Samba
I have to add; $143.32 for the Impex. That's a lot of scratch for something that will be dethroned down the road. I find all this best of pressing thing some circular logic designed to relieve people of there cash. Really, Dante couldn't have designed a better ring of hell than record reissues. On another performance, I once asked you about the Starker Bach cello suites as I own the original(well two discs), the Speakers Corner , the AP 45RPM set, and the Mercury Golden Imports set. Hands down, the Mercury Golden Imports, the liveliest sounding, the best cool background sounds( subway trains passing underneath, a bus pulling away from the curb sounds like its happening outside my window, etc.). The Ap, the worst, and the most expensive to acquire. I don't give a sh!t what someone else's opinion is on it. Really; find a Mercury Copy first, then try the others. The Speakers corner is closest to the originals sound. I think I listened to the 45 set, two-two and a half times.
Thank you for your comments. Many times an original tops them all. I have many wonderful Golden Imports pressings, that I prefer over originals and reissues. They are quite the bargain. Again, I don't have any Starker Bach Suites set from any of the sources mentioned, just a late Mercury of one of the discs from the set. Those late pressings don't sound that great due to poor pressings. Is love to hear the Golden Import. Yes, the pressing does matter, but it's not always the latest audiophile release. In the case of this Impex, I do believe it is the best, but there was absolutely nothing wrong with the MFSL. But that costs even more than the Impex anyway. Impex One Steps are luxury products, and the sound and value are there if you get into luxurious presentations. When comparing what you get vs other One Steps (MOFI, Craft) you are getting a top shelf product, lovingly produced by a passionate team that aims for perfection. If all of that is worth the money is up to the individual. In this evaluation, there was something for everyone at every price point. Trust me I understand the frustration of the chase and its cost. Having a channel where reviews of the latest reissues are expected has put a strain on me. I can’t tell you how many Rhino Hi-Fi releases I purchased that I thought were disappointing and I let the viewers know if it was.
@@ThePressingMatters And the irony of my personal displeasure of the cost of these discs and even more, the 45rpm aspect, which as I reread my reply's, I guess I am biased against. I own quite a few 45RPMs and as a whole, I don't listen to them after the initial purchase. I don't know about you, but I have had a lot of issues with Ultradisc One steps. I'm glad I live so close to the source to resolve the issues before I come home with them. I learned to check them out before leaving. I did get a hold of my local dealer and placed an order for the Getz/Gilberto yesterday. Out of print right now. I don't own an Impex and because of yours and others glowing reviews, curiosity one out. Thanks again.
Yes I have had numerous replacement issues with the MOFI Ultradiac One Steps. I finally got decent copies after several tries and swore off the series. Not good value. Sound I didn't always love, poor pressings, skimpy inserts and cumbersome boxes. I rarely touch them though I do love a few of them.
Hello, good video. But the Impex Edition does cost 190 Euros, too expensive in my opinion. Like all the other luxury vinyl editions. Sorry. There are another vinyl editions, which are cheaper and they sounds similar to the expensives.
Thank you. Perfectly understandable at the import rates you have to pay. Nothing you need to lose sleep over! The AP33 is distributed worldwide and through Amazon and is a great record as well.
You really have to hear this album! Too bad about the jacket. It's really one of the nicest designs from the period, even for all time! Maybe it's time for an upgrade! Doesn't have to be this one, but maybe the Acoustic Sounds version. It's often discounted on Amazon. To hear this in silent vinyl is a blessing. The jacket in that one will blow your mind too. It's gorgeous.
Thanks for the kind words, Scott. I especially appreciate your observations on the design and the level of care we brought to this very important record!
You did a masterful job in every aspect. That rear jacket design blew my mind. What a delightful surprise that was!
@@ThePressingMatters 🤟
Hey Scott, another wonderful review. I was listening to this album just the other day and lo and behold your review appears, I have the AP 33 and it sounds great and is dead quiet, a true classic. Stay well.
Thank you, and let me say everything I heard was great. The AS Verve is a beauty.
Thank you so much Scott for another wonderful review!!! Everyone at Impex Records appreciates your enthusiasm and attention to the details of our musical sound quality and packaging. I'm sorry to see the oil spot on your slipcase. I would be crying as well. I've asked Elusive Disc to help and ship a replacement slipcase to you. 🤗 Cheers-
It was my pleasure to review this marvelous release. I was just amazed at how perfectly every detail was attended to. The sound quality is sublime. Thank you to you and your team for the extraordinary care in everything you do.
Thank you so much for helping to get a replacement slipcase. I'm so grateful to have a perfect set!
One of the best album reviews I’ve ever heard. Thanks Scott! Congrats, Amy. Looking forward to receiving my copy in Switzerland.
Aww thank you! I'm glad you enjoyed it! It's nice to know I have a fan in Switzerland!
I think you will find exactly what I described on your new One Step. Hope you love it!
Hi Scott, great commentary. My copy will find its place in my collection on Saturday if all goes well with the delivery. If anything anyone can take away from this review is that this release is a must have. For those who don’t want to spend the money, as you pointed out, there are other comparable options available. Anyone who is new to record collecting, this is a title that needs to be included. Impex does a great job with their releases(One Step and non One Step) I was over the moon with excitement when they announced this release Cheers and thank you for sharing your experience with us.
Hi Brian!
I'm sure you will appreciate everything that was done with this superb release. I imagine you probably have one or more pressings of this, and frankly most sound excellent, but this presentation, both physical and sonically was such a delight to me. Hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
Thanks Brain, I'm so happy to hear! 🥰
I've heard nothing but good things about this Impex release. It is very tempting to buy it. Since I have two very nice copies of the album already, it's hard to make the leap to buy this more expensive version. I will have to think about the importance of the album to me. Thank you for the excellent review of the album; I really got a good feel for the quality of this album. 👍👍👍
It's very understandable to be hesitant about an expensive release like this. As I said, there are wonderful, fully satisfying copies out there, in print. It's a different approach to the sound, and I hope you can here it somewhere first before making the plunge. There should be plenty of time to read or view other reviews before they eventually sell out.
If I were just a jazz guy, I'd probably buy the album, but I love so many genres of music. I like to spread my money around and diversify my collection with high spots from other artists in other genres. Since I'm on a budget and have storage space limitations, I have to be careful about what I buy. With what I would pay for the one Impex album, I can buy three or more other albums and get to hear even more music.
@@audiophileman7047 The I wouldn't worry about it. Enjoy the copies you have. I'm sure they are enough for this record. You can enjoy watching the reviews but get some other music you really love it's all about the music after all and you have this music already. Sometimes the hobby can make us do things that don't make sense! Believe me, I know!
Yes, there is a method to my madness, and the great Bluesville (AS) series will begin later this year. It's very hard to find those blues records in NM originals without paying a fortune. I decided to limit my collection to what will fit on my record storage shelves. After that, I have to get rid of records when I want to buy others. That forces me to choose wisely these days. @@ThePressingMatters
Im doing the same thing, and I've already reached my maximum. Stuff has to be weeded out. But once it's gone I don't miss it. Fortunately I can house about 2,000 on my shelves but not one more!
I feel your pain regarding the cleaning mishap, Scott. Hope you can rectify...
...& thanks for the detailed & insightful review of this work of art...
Hi,
It seems someone at Impex is going to try and source one for a replacement for the damaged slipcase. I'm thrilled about that!
I'm glad you enjoyed the review. Thank you for your comment!
Wonderful, comprehensive review, Scott. Wonderful Impex!
Thank you Anthony. By the way, to anyone reading this comment, Anthony did a beautiful written review on the Audiophilia website. Please check it out for even more insight.
Spot on review, Scott! I ordered my copy from Elusive Disc within a day or two of the prerelease announcement. Received it on Friday and played it yesterday. I am amazed at how good it is. Everyone, from the Getz family to Impex to Bernie Grundman and to Elusive Disc deserves the highest of praises in creating this pinnacle release. My copy is number 0257/7500.
Excellent! Thank you so much for letting me know your impression of it. I was very careful to be thorough in describing exactly what I heard, and you are the second to comment that is was right on the money! Enjoy, my friend!
I am getting so excited as my Impex copy has been shipped! I have never heard this record so my take on it will be a virgin experience! Your explanation of the whole project and process made me take a leap of faith!
I know it's a leap for you to go for a pressing such as this. I think you'll be very happy with what you see and hear.
Wait so you haven’t heard the album, let alone heard it on vinyl?! It’s a masterpiece
@@mikechivy I haven’t so I’m hoping for a “blown away“ experience!!!
I have a 100% success rate with Scott’s recommendations- including for records I’ve never heard. I think you’ll be really happy.
Awesome Review! and what an endearing story about your childhood. I just bought mine from elusive disc. Thanks Scott!!!
Thank you Robbie! Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for watching. You are going to love it.
This was a wonderful review. I could hear the joy in your voice. I only have the AP 33 rpm version so I am looking forward to hearing this one. The packaging looks great and I hope you are able to get a replacement for your cover. Those things happen to all of us. 🤗 Take care.
Hi Melinda!
Thank you so much. I truly am excited by this release, it was hard to hide it! Yet I tried to give everything a fair and balanced assessment. All different, all great. I hope you enjoy this release as I have been.
This is a great review, thorough and interesting. Thank you for your work. Now I'm glad I ordered Impex One-Step despite owning AP 45rpm.
I hope you love this one as you do your previous copy. You'll have two of the best, each offering a different look at this landmark recording. Spend some time with the Impex and its beauty will be revealed.
Thank you for watching! Please let me know what you think once you've got it in your hands.
@@ThePressingMatters Absolutely. I was thinking that it would be difficult for Impex to get to the level of AP45rpm, given it is so much above other vinyl versions I heard (all you have mentioned bar the Mofi), but now I'm prepared to be flabbergasted.
Scott,
I have the AP 33 rpm pressing and that pressing sounds incredible to me. I thought long and hard about whether or not to buy this issue but decided to pull the trigger. After your review I’m super excited to hearing this reissue. Thanks for the review.
You're welcome and I hope you like this edition as much as I do. I suggest setting a special quiet night, release any expectations, and take the whole thing in, in one sitting. You'll hear the differences I described, and the honest, unadorned and intimate nature of this presentation should win you over.
Great review ! I was hesitant about ordering another copy of this recording but after your review I'm especially looking forward to hearing it (my copy should arrive this weekend). Maybe Impex / Elusive Disc might send you a copy of the Jennifer Warnes - Famous Blue Raincoat 1 Step. I still haven't pulled the trigger on that one. Would love to see a review. Thanks again for this revealing review.
Thank so much for your comment. I really enjoyed doing this one, and tried to give all these pressings their due. But after all the back and forth was over and I really focused on the One Step exclusively is when my appreciation deepened. Each time I play it I find something else to love. I hope you have the same experience.
Famous Blue Raincoat is a favorite record. I do have an original and the older 3LP 45. I would love to get the One Step now after experiencing this one. I know I could do justice to the music and the record's importance, with some interesting comparisons.
Your review sounds about as precise and resolute as the pressing you review! My parents basement was the same in the 1970s where they held their monthly "disco parties" . My dad spent some time in South America in the 1960s and brought his love for bossa nova into the basement as well.
Your comment made me smile! It's funny how that lounge trend started to take shape in America with the hi-fi boom of the late 50's. The console stereo was a big part of it. It was still a 'cocktail culture' so a place for dad to listen to his records undisturbed or for the couple to entertain with the smoking and drinking away from the main household made perfect sense.
I think this is your best review ever Scott!! kudos and thanks from tokyo
Thank you for your kind words! I put a lot into this to be sure it was a fair and balanced review.
My copy should be here in a couple of days, really looking forward to it, thanks for the review!
Hope you enjoy it! Thanks so much for watching!
Thank you Scott for your detailed, in depth review. My copy is “in the mail”! Looking forward to comparing to my AP 45.
You're welcome. I think you'll hear the differences I spoke about. Nuance and subtlety are the keywords here. Two different approaches, each equally valid and thrilling. You'll love how you can see into the One Step. It's so quiet it's like Joao is singing right across from you!
Hi Scott,
I knew this was gonna be great but I still planned to not buy it. Competing demands on my financial resources, running out of space for additional records, etc etc.
But after watching this, I immediately placed my order.
I loved everything about this video, from your personal story, which led nicely into your discussion of the music and its impact, and everything else. Fantastic comparisons, too, as is your standard.
Impex is indebted to you. And so am I.
Best,
Ron C.
Hi Ron,
I think you'll find my descriptions accurate and knowing your system this is going to be reproduced beautifully. I look forward to hearing back with your thoughts on it.
Thanks for the kind words on my presentation.
@@ThePressingMatters Holy ****. What a magnificent record. The whole package, really.
I knew this Impex One Step would sound amazing, but I can't buy every UHQR/OneStep etc, and I already have a NM 1982 Japanese pressing I'm pretty happy with.
The thing about your excellent video that convinced me to buy this (and this will reveal how superficial I am, probably) is your description of the exceptional attention to every detail and every aspect of the package, including not just SQ but also the book & packaging, getting the cover just right, the texture of the outer box, everything. Most of my OneSteps and UHQRs have nice packaging but any extras aren't especially meaningful. The music of course is most important. But for me, part of why I love vinyl is the entire experience, the tactile experience of the jacket and full-size photos & notes, compared to the miniature versions in CDs or nothing with hi-res streaming or hi-res downloads.
But even on SQ alone, this Impex release is super worth it. My Japanese pressing is very nice. But the Impex really drew me in and allowed me to experience more fully the emotional impact of this music. I've only had this for 3 hours and I've already listened to it 2 times. And a brief comparison with my Japanese pressing.
Anyway, now that I know how happy this release makes me, I really don't care about having spent $130 for it. It's so worth it.
Thanks again for another killer video essay on such an important release of such an important and joyous record.
Warmly,
Ron
@@rc2257 So I'm still at 100% 😁
I LOVED reading your review. I could feel your excitement. I can tell you appreciate what they did with this gorgeous, thoughtful presentation. Those kind of things bring me joy.
But the sound of the record is something I noticed it took a few plays to truly reveal its unique beauty. It's so disarming the first time you hear it. The resolution is stunningly good.
You're the first to comment, thank you so much for letting us know about your experience!
Take care,
Scott
@@rc2257 The bonus cuts are pretty special too and actually are quite welcome after the main record. It was fun to hear the radio edit of Ipanema in glorious mono! Astrud centered!
The live Cocovado is nice in its slower pace and unadorned beauty.
Yes although i forgot to mention it in my review, I LOVED the bonus tracks. I usually don't like bonus tracks tacked on to a classic album but these were so special it worked beautifully.
Hey Scott
I just ordered my copy of this classic. Can’t wait to hear it. I love your videos. Keep em coming!
Impex is a classy company and set a standard with sound and packaging imo. Ive never had a clunker and most of the time excellent sound.
Sounds like a winner Scott. Thanks for an excellent review.
They really do reach for the top! How I would love to work for a company that has such high standards. I've never found anything with Impex that was less than excellent. Hopefully I will delve into some of their past releases I haven't gotten to, and will keep an close eye on the next projects they are working on.
Thank you! Thank you!! ❤
Hi Abey! Awesome job on this reissue. You didn't miss one opportunity to make it the best it can possibly be.
Very good review. A great effort profuse in this one. I bought the Mobile Fidelity LP when it was issued in the '90 and I was suddenly amazed by the quality of the record: so smooth, so detailed, so present and natural. A sonic masterpiece of the era. And I never felt the need to buy one different pressing. But at this time I am bit curious and tempted to buy the Impex reissue. I will see. Thanks again
The MFSL is really very good. You really are on good ground with that one. If you're curious (and who isn't!) you'll find a lot to love in the Impex.
You are so emotive with this album on this video. Touching, moving.
Loved it.
Hi Alexandre,
Sometimes it's like that, and this album really inspired me. So beautiful, it would be a shame to hide the emotion. It makes the most compelling video.
Thank you for the review on this album, thoroughly enjoyed it and love the channel. We own Impex Records “Legrand Jazz” and just adore that record. Keep up the great work, looking forward to your next video Scott!🙏🏻🎧
You're welcome! Thank you for watching and commenting! Legrand Jazz has been on my wishlist for some time. I'd better pull the trigger before it disappears. I think you'll like what's coming up next!
Scott , again thank you for your reviews . Yes your reviews do encourage me to play my records . Your review of this double album gave me confidence to buy the albums because you speak so passionately and cleverly about it. It is a wonderful pressing Scott , thank you . Regards Bruce .
That's wonderful, thank you for your comment. Just to clarify, you are speaking about the Impex?
yes the Impex , and because of the effort you always take i did ( i hope) send you a contribution
Hi Bruce,
Thank you so much. I just found this message in the "held for review" section which i rarely check. Thank you so much for your contribution to the channel. Its much appreciated!
Thank you for this video and review. I bought my copie and it arrived today. It sounds and looks amazing. Really enjoying it 😍😍
Awesome! I think it's so worth the price, just beautiful in both sound and presentation. I'm sure you'll enjoy it for many years.
Thanks for the video Scott. Per USPS tracking I should be getting mine today. Very exciting! I put my furniture oil in the garage just to be safe.
You're welcome Micheal! Take some time with it and you'll be rewarded big time.
And get that slipcase in a sleeve!
Love what you are saying about having earned a *greater appreciation* for Stan Getz playing due to this great pressing! That right there alone is worth the price of admission!
That was eye opening. It's much clearer as to his intent and technique.
Great review and this 1step series that Impex are doing are outstanding. I do hope you get a replacement outer case , they are beautiful and my favourite out of the high end boxed . Cheers Scott for your honest opinion 🎉🎉😁
Thank you, and I agree, the effort and results achieved are outstanding. I hope I can get a replacement too. It's too beautiful to be marred by an unighy stain!
I'm pretty sure I entered the contest.I've been a subscriber for some time now
I'll doublecheck. Did you leave a comment in that video for your favorite video?
I loved your explanation on this fantastic must have album, thank you.
Great video! Awesome job Scott
You are the best!
Thanks so much Joey. Was so happy you checked out the livestream. It got pretty interesting with all the records shown!
@@ThePressingMatters it was great!
Angie and you had a lot to show. Great stuff!
You know so much! Thank you for sharing the knowledge.
Love you
Blessings
Scott loved the review I almost passed on this one but I went and preordered it I love this album ever since I heard it in the mid 90’s I discovered it . I own the AP 45 which I like but as the years goes on these reissues are digging so deep in to the music is which I’m so interested in.
It does dig deeper, and I think you'll be glad to have both. The Impex is a slightly more nuanced approach. Try to let it sink in because it's distinctive qualities will reveal themselves more with repeated listening.
@@ThePressingMatters very cool Scott can’t wait to get it .
Please come back and let me know what you think!
@@ThePressingMatters definitely
@@ThePressingMattersScott I received my copy Friday and threw it on on Saturday late night Wow Bernie did a magnificent job it’s like Getz and Gilberto is in my living room simply stunning . I love the packaging too the book is so detailed I was on the fence glad I grabbed it take care Scott have a great week.
Great detail to your review.✨
Thank you Angie, so much fun to see you on the livestream! You were a hit, and I hope you'll come back often!
great video as always, thanks!
You're welcome, so glad you enjoyed it!
Very thoughtful and insightful review, Scott. I’d love to hear one of these on a really top system but until then I’ll make do with my, slightly crackly in places, mono 1964 pressing
Hey Robert,
I've heard mono is the way to go! Several have said this. I'm going to track one down without the crackles hopefully.
I might add, although this sounds great on my fairly modest system, I can only imagine what a full range higher end system could bring to it!
@@ThePressingMatters Hopefully you will find one and be able to do a review of that, Scott. I’ve cleaned my copy a couple of times and improved it a lot but I’d love to see what an ultrasonic cleaner or similar would do as it’s not scratched at all just 60 years accumulation of dust etc in places.
@@robertmorgan9205 I'll start the search!
@@ThePressingMatters Scott, as a result of this conversation I’ve gone back to my mono album and given it an even more intense cleaning than I normally would. I used my carbon record brush to get the record cleaning fluid deeper into the groove than how my normal cleaning would do. Maybe it’s not the correct use of the brush (I made sure it was gentle sweeps with it) but the results have been great. I’ve now got hardly any crackling on it and it sounds superb, to me at least. I’ll give it one more cleaning and that should suffice, I hope you have success in tracking one down.
I’ve learned to trust your reviews, and this does sound like a attempting purchase. However, I’m very happy with my AP 45. It’s going to be a tough decision for me!
Hi Chris,
Thank you for your confidence in me. If you love the AP 45, and who wouldn't, I think you are good. The One Step is an expensive proposition for someone that's already spent $60 on a copy of this. The AP is presented beautifully, less elaborate for sure, but elaborate costs money. Both equally valid masterings, different approaches. I expect this to be around for a while. Why not take in some more reviews and then make a decision?
@@ThePressingMatters excellent advice. I will do that.
Hi Scott, have you tried putting talcum powder on the oil stain? It makes wonders and in most cases works. Just sprinkle a little bit then gently, very gently rub it over the stain with your finger and give it 15min to half hour for the powder to do its job.
Who knows, it might work.
I thought about that! I'll try it. Thanks!
It would be great if they did others in this series that Getz played on during this time. Great great record and would consider if I didn't already have the AP 45 rpm already.
I too wish they would do another of this series. You have a great record there too. I did absolutely enjoy the AP.
I wouldn't mind a fresh audiophile level copy of Jazz Samba Encore! That would be afresh title for AP to tackle for the AS Verve series!
I just got my copy today in the mail!! Can't wait to hear this pressing!! Thanks!
Make it a special event! Read the booklet, warm up the system and dim the lights!
Will do!! Thanks!! By the way, my name is also Scott!
@@djvinylvertigo Hi Scott,
Please come back and let me know what you think!
Hi Scott, I've never owned Getz/Gilberto. The Impex reviews piqued my curiosity, so I streamed from the Verve 2014 CD remaster. The stereo version sounded weird, the mono version sounded glorious. To be fair, the streamer settings were not optimum (later changed) but I felt no reason to go back to the stereo. I later found out the 2014 stereo is not liked by music forums. A tidbit from other reviews, some Gilberto & Jobim studio chatter on first meeting Getz "This dude can't play". Well he doesn't play in the style they were used to but it works. Cheers!
Hi,
My friend brought so many pressings but no mono! I will find one one day. I suspect that it is in fact glorious.
Waiting for my copy to come! Good review of the recording I like the packaging better than the UHQRS as they are pretty bulky Can’t wait to hear how this sounds
I'd love to hear what you think once you've heard it!
Scott! yet another great video, love the detail and comparisons of the different pressings. I also love your childhood memories as mine were similar but I'm a bit younger. For me , it was memories of my grandparents 1950's house in Tacoma, complete with a sunken den, a hi-fi system, aquariums, a full bar, comfy furniture, and records like this! As someone who may appreciate the record from afar and own a pretty noisy version, which one would you recommend? I'm also on a budget. I'm leaning towards the acoustic sounds 180g Marino pressing, but I might be able to be convinced to go 45rpm. I do own several 45rpm records and understand the difference but still, i'm just not sure. Thank you and so sorry about your oil stain! I hope Impex can fulfill your request. Cheers! Todd
Thank you, and I loved your memories of that special time! I think in your case, go for the AS Verve 33. It's $33.00 right now on Amazon, and it's a great deal for an excellent sounding record. The jacket is also very nice. If you decide to go that route, you can order it through my storefront, listed in the description box of every video, and you'll be helping to support the channel as well!
@@ThePressingMatters I hit the link, found the AS Verve 33, and bought a copy!
@MrTgrewell Awesome, thank you! It's pretty easy, right? You'll love the AP. Great deal, great jacket with sound on par with the best.
I have a Tone Poet pressing and my Impex One Step is on the way, but now I want the AS 45 rpm, too. It’s a slippery slope. Great review, though.
I think both 45s are essential. I loved each of them for different reasons. I'm going to dive in deep with the Impex for a few months and consider adding the AP down the road.
My self-imposed record budget leaves room for only the Impex at this time. Something to think about, though. Cheers from Houston.
Great Video. I love the AP version
It's pretty amazing too! I might get one for myself someday.
A beautiful record and a great review. Also beautiful art have the gold mobile Fidelity CD also
Thanks! I love the painting. I'd love to have it full size on my wall. I wonder how big the original was?
Thank you so much for this wonderful message
Oh, you're welcome!
I went ahead and ordered it along with the next Kevin Gray tube recording from the In Grove
Hi Tara!
I must try one of Kevin's original productions. I think I'll order that too and do something on it for a video. People that push the boundaries like Kevin and Impex deserve a spotlight on their work.
@@ThePressingMattersHi Scott,
The Kevin Gray first Home tube recording is blow away. Nothing quite compares
I'm sure it's a beauty. Maybe I'll get both!
Cool. I got my shipping notice!
Awesome!
🎊 on the new subs
Thanks so much!
Rick Hashimoto left RTI and is now with Fidelity Record Pressings, the new pressing plant opened by MFSL.
That's correct. This was probably pressed when he was at RTI? It does credit him in the jacket.
@@ThePressingMatters Not sure, that's interesting. Rick is running the MFSL Fidelity plant and I think he has been with them since 2022. They were scheduled to start pressing last year but didn't start until thi year. I wonder if the credits went to press before he left, or he may still have plated it while doing double duty for RTI and Fidelity?
@@leea202 it's possible that this was pressed much earlier than we might think. Or, that the jacket was printed well ahead of time, before he moved to the new plant. This project has been in the production phase for years. I'll try to tack down the information but I believe I heard that it was five years from start to finish. Perhaps Abey or someone from Impex will clarify this for us.
@@leea202 The print materials were made in 2022/2023. Rick and Bryce played a big part during the QC phase of each stamper made but Rick was not at RTI when the record was pressed.
@@abeyfonn6397 Abey, Thanks for such a quick response to our question. I'm looking forward to receiving my copy and thank you for this great One Step! I wasn't sure the record could be improved upon from AP's 45 RPM release but the Impex One Step has received nothing but rave reviews! Great job!!!
Thanks
Thank you so much for your support. Your donation makes a great impact and is much appreciated! So glad you found value in what I do.
Take care,
Scott
The AP 45 is better than the 33. The MoFi is slightly bloated in the bass, but it's still very pleasing. They chose, intentionally, to use the reverse channel used in the original. AP notably corrected that with their 45.
The Verve 33, as I recall (I had a copy, but no more) was newly cut by Ryan K Smith.
I have the Verve 33, it was cut by George Marino, as Scott mentions.
I think the jacket was mislabeled as many were printed ahead of time when they intended for Ryan to cut them. In this case it was later decided to use the existing Marino mastering.
Jeff, I will humbly have to disagree that the MFSL (technically not a "MOFI" by the way 😉) is bloated in the bass. This is too what I thought until I revisited it through Scott's system and through my own system which digs way deeper.
I was prepared to deem it overly ripe, even overbearing at the bottom but to my surprise, it was not. Yes through Scott's system it sounded fuller but at no point did we feel it was bloated or out of control in any way. Oddly, what I got through my system was much greater control with greater sense of foundation. Surely my more massive & inert analog rig has a lot to do with this, not to mention the higher-res cart and world-class phono stage.
But yeah, bottom line, bass is not bloated on the MFSL (not MOFI). What it is, is a highly romanticized / sweeter version of the same music. Personally, I absolutely love it.
Best regards,
Oz
LTBS
@@ThePressingMattersIs the AP45 the same Marino mastering as the Acoustic Sounds Verve 33? So one's just 45, the other 33? All thing being equal, i.e. mastering, I'm not usually bothered about the 45 over the 33.
The AP Verve 33 sounds SO constrained next to the AP 45. They don't sound like they're the same mastering.
I still have the MoFi Anadisc. I'll do a fresh comparison with the AP45. But they, too, had a noticeably different presentation from each other. I remember the AP 45 having a more controlled, tuneful lower end, and the Mofi's lower end being bigger and softer. Again, I'll do a fresh listen and report back.
I have the Verve version on CD that I bought back in the '90s but I reckon I need to also get it on vinyl.
I might have the CD too but no CD playback in the system at this time. It might be close to the LPs but I think in this case the AP 45 or if you want to splurge on the One Step, might bring you closer to the music.
@@ThePressingMatters
Thanks Scott.
I have the AP hi-res download. The sound is quite good.
Good to know, as I've not heard it.
Scott,
I enjoy your audio reviews. Thanks for you effort(s).
Mr. Pete------>
aging hippie
Thank you Mr Pete! It's my pleasure to do them, especially for a superb release such as this.
I have 7500 albums. This may very well be the best sounding album I own. If I have a gripe, it would be that it looks like they mixed up identification of Jobim and Gilberto in the captions to the booklet photos.
Yup, that and a small typo is about all anyone could criticize. It's breathtaking! Glad you are loving this release!
Damn!!! I see five drops... I join you in pain.
Yes it was about five, with two big drops super obvious. I was sble to source a new case thanks to Abey and Elusive Disc and it stays in the shrink wrap until I find the right sleeve.
@@ThePressingMatters I love vinyl records and I know what it's like when something happens to a beloved record. It hurts so much. My copy is already waiting for me at my local Hi-Fi store. It's great that you managed to get a new case. :)
@@sebastianandmusic I was pretty much heartbroken thinking I'd ruined such a beautiful jacket, and knowing full well that inventory on this release was really strictly controlled. Thankfully, all is well now! Cant wait to hear what you think! Could you return here and let us know?
@@ThePressingMatters Yes, of course. This Friday. :)
@@ThePressingMatters Hello. I bought my copy on Friday. What a beautiful edition. For now it is still wrapped in foil. To open such a beautiful album, I have to do it properly, i.e. with a glass of wine. Thank you for review.
For the hell of it, I gave it another listen, but the result is the same...it just isn't for me.
Big fan of Getz, and I know this record has a faithful following, but it just turns me off.
Nonetheless, I champion Impex in a big way and I hope they keep releasing albums manufactured at this top notch quality, whether I'm a fan of the release at the time or not.
Well done. Appreciate your passion.
Thank you. I know it might sound like heresy, but I wouldn't mind hearing an isolated version with just guitar piano percussion and vocal. Bet it would be an interesting listen!
@@ThePressingMatters I tend to agree....would probably be more approachable for me.
Pinnacle of record production? Well, maybe for now until the next pinnacle of record production. That has been the history of remasters. I own an original LP the first verve CD and the Mobile Fidelity CD. When I have done listening tests, what surprises everyone, myself included at just how good the MF CD is. It sounds like it was cut from a completely different and clearly better source. If I make a rip of the Mobile Fidelity it still will sound better than any other CD, the original, and on par(maybe not quite) with the MF Anadisc LP. My biggest issue with the 45RPM stuff is the physical space and the constant getting up to change sides. As I have gotten older the appeal for that has waned plus the additional stuff added I could care less about. Now I'm deciding b-4 I head out whether to get Kim Gordon's new recording, "The Collective" on vinyl or CD. Hmmmmmm.
Thank you for your comment. By "pinnacle of record production" I mean that they used every possible tool at their disposal to give this the chance at being the best sounding version of the album. I feel 45rpm certainly is one of those tools. Yes I don't always like getting up to change sides but I feel the benefit sonically is often worth it. I also meant the term pinnacle in reference to the whole project. There's no denying that the physical presentation is at the top of the heap.
I no longer have the MFSL gold CD and I wish I did. I remember it being one of their best, and though I don't currently have digital in my system, I trust that what you say about it is true.
Fortunately with this recording, whatever format you prefer, there is a great sounding version and at all price points.
@@ThePressingMatters I'd like to see your take on the Starker Bach Suites For Unaccompanied Cello. I loved these performances, saw him live, and met him at Jacob's School Of Music, all that before I knew anything about audiophile nerds who were told: "love these performances and never heard any others". I promise that I won't mention anything digital. When did mastering engineers become stars?
@@watdanuqta-mf5ms I don't have that Starker box at the moment. Way back when I was scouring every place I could find records, I found an original pressing of the three record set. It was so valuable, I sold it to someone overseas. Since then we have the AP and Speakers Corner, perhaps I'll try it out one day and review it. Awesome that you got to meet him.
Mastering engineers have become stars in the last decade or so in the audiophile community. Bernie Grundman was well known much before that and has always been sought out. Robert Ludwig, Doug Sax, George Marino too. Now we have Kevin Gray, Ryan Smith, Matt Lutthans.
@@ThePressingMatters Let's not forget Stan Ricker. His name was front and center with the MOFI half speed masters reissues in the seventies. You know his test Lp with Cardas has some interesting tracks including an ultrasonic cleaning of your cartridge plus degaussing it plus your whole system. Also Stan insists that the record does a better job degaussing an LP than one of those battery operated devices. I questioned Cardas about that claim years ago and Stan himself responded in a sort of vociferous manner. I use all the time. Does it work? Not sure; I like to believe that it does. Part of my audio faith based(sometimes) philosophy. I'm tempted to get this copy if only because I love the record and I do not own any Impex pressings, at least I think I don't have any, and your enthusiastic review and others. There, my audio faith based(sometimes) belief system.
Yes, I do have the Cardas record that was done with Stan, and you reminded me I need to try that track again.
The recording is super smooth with the most amazing bass but the sax seems a bit hard and not smooth. Almost as if Stan's playing was mixed in later. Stan's playing is much smoother on Jazz Samba
I have to add; $143.32 for the Impex. That's a lot of scratch for something that will be dethroned down the road. I find all this best of pressing thing some circular logic designed to relieve people of there cash. Really, Dante couldn't have designed a better ring of hell than record reissues. On another performance, I once asked you about the Starker Bach cello suites as I own the original(well two discs), the Speakers Corner , the AP 45RPM set, and the Mercury Golden Imports set. Hands down, the Mercury Golden Imports, the liveliest sounding, the best cool background sounds( subway trains passing underneath, a bus pulling away from the curb sounds like its happening outside my window, etc.). The Ap, the worst, and the most expensive to acquire. I don't give a sh!t what someone else's opinion is on it. Really; find a Mercury Copy first, then try the others. The Speakers corner is closest to the originals sound. I think I listened to the 45 set, two-two and a half times.
Thank you for your comments. Many times an original tops them all. I have many wonderful Golden Imports pressings, that I prefer over originals and reissues. They are quite the bargain. Again, I don't have any Starker Bach Suites set from any of the sources mentioned, just a late Mercury of one of the discs from the set. Those late pressings don't sound that great due to poor pressings. Is love to hear the Golden Import. Yes, the pressing does matter, but it's not always the latest audiophile release. In the case of this Impex, I do believe it is the best, but there was absolutely nothing wrong with the MFSL. But that costs even more than the Impex anyway. Impex One Steps are luxury products, and the sound and value are there if you get into luxurious presentations. When comparing what you get vs other One Steps (MOFI, Craft) you are getting a top shelf product, lovingly produced by a passionate team that aims for perfection. If all of that is worth the money is up to the individual. In this evaluation, there was something for everyone at every price point.
Trust me I understand the frustration of the chase and its cost. Having a channel where reviews of the latest reissues are expected has put a strain on me. I can’t tell you how many Rhino Hi-Fi releases I purchased that I thought were disappointing and I let the viewers know if it was.
@@ThePressingMatters And the irony of my personal displeasure of the cost of these discs and even more, the 45rpm aspect, which as I reread my reply's, I guess I am biased against. I own quite a few 45RPMs and as a whole, I don't listen to them after the initial purchase. I don't know about you, but I have had a lot of issues with Ultradisc One steps. I'm glad I live so close to the source to resolve the issues before I come home with them. I learned to check them out before leaving. I did get a hold of my local dealer and placed an order for the Getz/Gilberto yesterday. Out of print right now. I don't own an Impex and because of yours and others glowing reviews, curiosity one out. Thanks again.
Yes I have had numerous replacement issues with the MOFI Ultradiac One Steps. I finally got decent copies after several tries and swore off the series. Not good value. Sound I didn't always love, poor pressings, skimpy inserts and cumbersome boxes. I rarely touch them though I do love a few of them.
Hello, good video. But the Impex Edition does cost 190 Euros, too expensive in my opinion. Like all the other luxury vinyl editions. Sorry. There are another vinyl editions, which are cheaper and they sounds similar to the expensives.
Thank you. Perfectly understandable at the import rates you have to pay. Nothing you need to lose sleep over! The AP33 is distributed worldwide and through Amazon and is a great record as well.
Even my wife loves this, and she is not into jazz at all
You wife has good taste in music!
I have an original; the jacket is in squalid shape but the LP is fine. To my infinite shame I haven't listened to it yet. Forgive!
You really have to hear this album! Too bad about the jacket. It's really one of the nicest designs from the period, even for all time! Maybe it's time for an upgrade! Doesn't have to be this one, but maybe the Acoustic Sounds version. It's often discounted on Amazon. To hear this in silent vinyl is a blessing. The jacket in that one will blow your mind too. It's gorgeous.