In addition to Jvogt's explanation, even with a record it may not be the vinyl's fault, as sometimes the old analog tape has print-through on it, which you'll hear even if the vinyl is cut well enough to minimize pre-echo. For example, the Classic reissue of the Bartok Concerto for Orchestra has what I thought was pre-echo at a few points, but when I heard the CD the same problem was there, indicating that print through on the master tape was the culprit.
What's up with the analog "echo" phenomenon?
I was recently listening to an Analogue Productions LP record: "The Intimate Art Pepper". I couldn't help but notice--particularly on the solo horn cuts--an anoying echo-type of phenomenon. Actually, it is more like a reverse echo with the quieter "decay" sound proceding the loud actual intended sound by about a half second. I hope this makes some sense. Actually, I've noticed this for years on other analog recordings. It is very noticable during very quiet passages just before a loud passage. I didn't expect to hear this on a supposed "audiophile" pressing.
Is this phenomenon a necessary evil in the analogue tape medium?
Is this phenomenon a necessary evil in the analogue tape medium?