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78 RPM - Potential for better sound than digital?

I am interested in expanding my collection of music with a new focus on music from the 30s thru the early 50s. I'm considering 78s and wondering if anybody has been able to get better than digital sound quality out of such old recordings. I have both PC-based digital (Wavelength Audio Brick) and VPI Scout. If it can beat digital on sound quality, I would be willing to buy a preamp with appropriate equalization features (e.g., Graham Slee Jazz) and a dedicated 78 cartridge and take the trouble to find 78s in good condition. Has anybody been able to get great, better than digital sound from old music out of 78s? I would appreciate any comments. Thanks! Mark
mm2550

Showing 1 response by emailists

emailists
923 posts
 
I agree with the clean copy comment - the professionals obviously had the resources to find very good copies of what they were transferring, not to mention knowing what if any playback curves or eq was needed for each recording. I can imagine the people that transfer 78's are passionate about it.

I would bet if you focused on good digital with tubes in the system, you'd achieve some nice sound.

Incidentally, Soundsmith's new strain gage cart has a 78 stylus option. You need thier filter in the system, but it;s so cool to see them slip one stylus in and swap for another in a few seconds.
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