Great responses folks. Khaki, I'm not suggesting that the music isn't great. To my mind it's the most amazing catalogue of 20th century recording there is. However, what's available sure doesn't sound like they put a lot of effort into making it sound it's best, especially if - as stated above - the original vinyl pressings are that much better in sound quality. But I suppose there is a certain amount of milking the catalogue for $$$ going on.
Funny thing: I was listening to another album recorded live at the Blackhawk last night, Shelly Manne and His Men Vol. 1, which was recorded within a year or so of the aforementioned Monk album. The imaging was a little different with the kit across the center and everyone else off to the sides, but it has the same big, warm, smooth detailed sound. I wonder - and if anyone knows I'd be interested to hear - if the Blackhawk had its own house recording system and what was in it?
Funny thing: I was listening to another album recorded live at the Blackhawk last night, Shelly Manne and His Men Vol. 1, which was recorded within a year or so of the aforementioned Monk album. The imaging was a little different with the kit across the center and everyone else off to the sides, but it has the same big, warm, smooth detailed sound. I wonder - and if anyone knows I'd be interested to hear - if the Blackhawk had its own house recording system and what was in it?