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Born to Run: Why the Poor Sound Quality?

I have always been disappointed with the sound quality of Bruce Springsteen's Born to Run. Even the CBS 1/2 Speed Master pressing is underwhelming. Is there a good explanation for this? As I recall, Jon Landau produced the album, and he is certainly no slouch, but the recording seems inferior.

It's really a shame that there doesn't seem to be a decent pressing of this classic album
jeffreybowman2k

Showing 2 responses by jfz

jfz
570 posts
 
The remastered CD that came with the Born to Run anniversary box-set is actually very good. Yes, the wall-of-sound production was deliberate on BTR. And many may not like it (I didn't used to). When I heard this remastered disc on my admittedly very high-end system, I was surprised how good it sounded.
jfz
570 posts
 
I guess it depends upon what "listenable" means, Lenny : ) I listen, but usually while I'm doing something like cleaning the house.

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

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