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CD mastering a lost art?

Okay, so a lot of my stuff is packed for my move, including vinyl. I have been listening to my digital collection (ripped CDs and downloads). I was thinking how it is interesting how harsh all this music sounds. That "digital" argument.

Then a song from Nine Inch Nails' "Pretty Hate Machine" (Ringfinger) came up (a FLAC rip from the original release..yes 1988.) It sounded amazing. Clear, no harshness..almost analog.

So what's up? Studio tricks from over 20 years ago or has an art-form been lost?
affejunge

Showing 1 response by montejay

montejay
285 posts
 
Some of my early cds sound better then some of the sacds I have of the same recording. There are some talented people mastering some great stuff these days just as they were 25+ years ago. There are also some hacks that shouldn't touch a recording at all.
Find a great sounding recording and look behind who did the mastering. You will be surprised how often only a few names come up.

Regards,
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