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Can we go back to 33's please?

Yes, I know we have a million records cut at 33.3, but now, I guess in an attempt to have a "super premium" image, some lables are cutting reissues at 45 rpm. I know Levinson did it way back - I have those and they sound great. The only thing is, I have many 33s that also sound great. I really don't feel like hassling with cleaning and storing 2 discs for each album and getting up every 10 minutes to change sides. I really think equal or at least almost equal quality can be achieved on 33. Listen to anything on Stockfisch, Opus3, Tacet, Naim. They do a great job with it. Not to mention many older RCA Red Seals and such. Is there anyone here who believes that 45 has the magic 33 lacks - all things equal?

Maybe it's my system - Linn, Rega RB700, Argo, is not capable of ferreting out the nuances of some other tables? Perhaps you folks with Caliburns believe 45s are the way to go? If not - tell the record companies and they might listen. I don't want to get up every 10 minutes. Sorry.
chayro

Showing 3 responses by rushton

rushton's avatar
rushton
2,445 posts
 
We've had, and will continue to have, a lot of 33rpm reissues: Speakers Corner, Classic Records, Analogue Productions, Pure Pleasure... All have done and will be doing 33rpm reissues. The 45rpm reissues are a special treasure. For most of us, these will be the best sonics in which we will ever be able to hear these recordings. I only wish we could have more classical music issued at 45 rpm with the same care as Music Matters is devoting to the Blue Note 45rpm reissue series. May they continue!
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rushton's avatar
rushton
2,445 posts
 
Regarding some comments on the 45 rpm RCA classical reissues, I continue of the opinion that the Classic Records 45rpm reissues are vastly superior to the originals (that I've been able to hear) and superior to any of the 33 rpm reissues. Not to offend those who love the originals, which definitely have an appeal for being warm, smooth and luscious, but to my ears the originals also sound compressed, congested and rolled off. If you're a classical music lover and you haven't heard some of these 45 rpm Classic Records reissues, it's worth finding a friend who has some and taking a listen. (Anyone near Richmond, Virginia, is welcome to listen here.) As with all things, some are better than others simply because the recording and master tapes are better.

Four Classic Records 45 rpm RCA reissues to recommend: the Rozsa Violin Concerto with Heifetz (LSC 2767-45); the Vieutemps Violin Concerto No. 5 with Heifetz (LSC 2603-45); the Royal Ballet Gala Performances (LSC 2327-45); and the Sibelius Finlandia with Mackerras (LSC 2336-45).
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rushton's avatar
rushton
2,445 posts
 
Nicely described, Mike. Agree totally.
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