50's and early 60's. After 68 the multi tracks, 16 tracks and high compression started. All killed realism and color and tone. Producer's became as important as the artists, so you started hearing a "sound" Early 50's mono killed any mono Beatles or any British recordings, that how far ahead we were in making high sound quality recordings and the masters who made them sound as real as possible. That was the golden era and never will be bettered.
Golden age of vinyl recordings?
I know that for a period of time recording studios used analog equipment to make records. Eventually this switched to solid state. What period of time were the best vinyl recordings made? It doesn't matter what genre of music. I just want to know what to look for. I currently listen to classic rock and blues but am open to expanding my horizons (i.e. classical or jazz). Thanks.