Thanks uberwaltz. I'll wait for his reply and information.
Slaw, you can PM me, I welcome the communication.
Slaw, you can PM me, I welcome the communication.
Showing 50 responses by mammothguy54
@michaelwise, very cool and excellent music. That reminds me to get out my original copy of Return To Forever, 'Romantic Warrior'. Sounds to me like a good one to play tonight, following 'Avalon'. I have a pending order for the soon-to-release reissue of Stanley Clarke, 'School Days'. My original copy is too noisy so I'm hoping for some superb new vinyl with outstanding mastering, plating, and pressing. Chick Corea, Stanley Clarke, Lenny White, and Al Dimeola. It doesn't get much better than these guys for that genre of music. And @tomic601, that's some bad-ass new additions to your collection. Please do enjoy them in good health. |
Hey, thanks for the heads-up earlier in this thread about the Buffalo Springfield box set. I just now bought one of the remaining copies. I'm looking very forward to receiving it. Awesome music! Bryan Ferry; 'Boys and Girls' What a great album, last night. That makes me want to que up Roxy Music, 'Avalon'. Probably tonight. |
I also have Joni Mitchel 'Court & Spark' on Nautilus. I listened to it just a few weeks ago. Sounds great! I have always loved that album since it first released and still have my original copy, too. I have her album 'Blue' on order. I understand that remastered version is superbly done. Looking forward to receiving it. Joni is excellent! |
uberwaltz, thanks for that information. I'll clean up my copy of the one I have, today, and listen to it. Here's a short story about Hot Tuna. I had tickets to a Jefferson Airplane and Moody Blues concert at the Forum. I can't remember the reason, but I could not go and forfeited my tickets to a friend. Due to some issue, the Moody Blues could not arrive to Los Angeles Airport that day and the concert went on without them. Because of that, the promoter convinced both bands to provide a "free concert" at Alysian Park, outside of Dodger's Stadium, two days later. I made it to that concert and arrived early, securing a sitting position about 30 feet from the stage setup, and dead center. Jefferson Airplane and the Moody Blues put on fantastic shows, very memorable to this day. The added bonus was assembling Hot Tuna as the opening act. And this act included Papa John Creech. It was after that concert I bought my copy of the Hot Tuna album, described above. And that is my short story... |
@j_damon, I have an original copy of Hot Tuna but mine shows RCA Records from 1971. I'm not sure if there was an album released prior to the one I have. So I have a question. Is the one you have a gatefold jacket that is blue & yellow swirled lines with a large section on the front in a black & white squigle of an X, a starbust, and a bunch of small hearts? Opening the gatefold and the inside of the jacket is a full picture of the band, on stage, in a rather blurry red iridescent overtone of color. Is that the one? I bought this album after seeing them in 1971 (I was 17 at the time) and have played it only a few times. It's in perfect condition. Just curious. |
Loggins & Messina / 'Full Sail' I have a "Super Disc" copy done by Direct-Disc Labs who, when in business, were located in Nashville. Though they did make actual direct-to-disc recordings those were rather few. They did, however, get licensed to make some excellent half-speed cuts, and did a fine job of not ruining the mastering. They always used original master tapes. Plating and pressing are quite good and they used very good grade vinyl. If you find any records on this label, buy it. I have a few others (buried somewhere) and when I last listened to them the SQ is quite good. |
@slaw, I also have a 1973 Track copy of Quadrophenia (by the way, I saw the North American tour of Quadrophenia at the Fabulous Forum in Inglewood, CA. in 1974). It's in VG++ condition and sounds good. However, last year I secured a "new" copy of Quadrophenia on Classic Records 200 gr QUIEX SV-P vinyl. It was expensive, but damn, that is the best SQ of Quadrophenia I have ever heard. If you can find a Classic Records copy I highly recommend grabbing it. |
@slaw, I first listened to a few albums as a warmup, for my tubes as well as for me. Now that my system was in best-sound operation (and I had a hit along with some wine) I too was in best-sound reception mode. The vinyl of that Alan Parsons Mo/Fi UHQR is superbly quiet and the mastering, plating, and pressing is fabulous. Pulled deeply into the music, as Alan Parsons albums do so well, I found myself totally immersed in a bath of music, floating in front of me and spanning a very wide soundstage. They did a phenomenal job on that reissue and it remains as one of my very best SQ records of my collection. And a very appropriate way to end the night, before heading off to bed. Very "floaty". And thank you for asking. I appreciate that. |
tomic60, the Zappa album 'Apostrophe' sounds quite good, but just a little over EQd on the top end. The album prior to that one, titled 'Overnight Sensation' is probably the best SQ record from all of the Zappa collection. 'Joe's Garage' is another great Zappa album but also suffers from being a little too hot on the top end. Still, even being a little hot, both 'Apostrophe' and 'Joe's Garage' are very good SQ, the vinyl quality is also very good, and the music is fantastic! I recently listened to all three of those from my collection, all original vinyl from when they were new releases. Well maintained all these years, of course. Zappa was a wonderful human being and suffered death at far too young of age. I am so glad that I was able to see two of his concerts, 1971 and 1974. |
After reading yesterday about Alan Parsons, 'Tales of Mystery' I pulled out my copy (original, in perfect condition) and played it. What a great album, it really pulls you in. So, tonight I will play my superior grade copy of 'I Robot'. I have an original copy that is in perfect condition, but way back in the day I was completely amazed with the album so I bought the Mobile Fidelity UHQR when it first released. What packaging they did with the UHQR limited editions. Of course, I have all of the original paperwork that came with it. My copy is #664 in the pressing count. Even back then (April, 1983) I paid $50 and if you can find a mint copy today they are about $400. Nevertheless, my copy has been played about 15 to 20 times so it is rather perfect. Tonight should be fun! |
I pulled out my Dave Mason 'Alone Together' album a few weeks ago. It's an awesome album! True story... When I first bought that album was shortly after seeing Dave Mason in concert. I bought two copies because it was wonderful music and it was about the first of its kind to be made of a marbled vinyl. I figured that with the first one I would wear it down on my parents Magnavox console (this is all when I was in high school) and would have a perfect copy for some later date in life. Well, I have a perfect copy of an original, first press, of Alone together. It sounds quite good, even better than I had expected. And the jacket is also in perfect condition. And that's my story! |
Here's one that's very obscure. Premiata Forneria Marconi, also known at PFM The album is 'Photo of Ghosts' They are from Italy and the album is from 1973. Original owner. Kind of dark recording with the drums rather muted and in the background. But very interesting and fairly good sounding. Unusual music but easily pulls you in. Rather enjoyable and satisfying. From the "deep tracks" of my collection. |
uberwaltz +1 on John Mayall, 'Turning Point' I just got a copy of that in NM/M- condition because the one I had (since high-school) was unplayable. Awesome music, all without a drummer. I saw John Mayall twice. The first time was in Anaheim, CA. and was the very concert tour that made Turning Point. The Anaheim show was about two months after the Turning Point recording, which was done on the East Coast. Thought I'd share that story. By the way, the lead act for that show was Spirit and the opening act was Mark-Almond (John Mark and Johnny Almond were two musicians of the John Mayall band and played on that set as well). What memories! |
I forgot to mention this. When listening to The Cars, 'Panorama' (and yes I agree, it is an underappreciated album) I found the bass guitar riffs were so easily discernable. I was able to follow the fret work and string plucks better than in the past. Then I realized, I had two of the MyMat on my platter now that I have not had in the past. I really do believe the MyMat plays a role in this area of record playback. I have stated this before but wanted to emphasize it again. Thanks Steve (slaw)! |
A couple of '80s albums. Tears For Fears 'Songs From The Big Chair' I've had this since it was first released. A little bright, but really quite good. The Cars 'Panorama' A really good Cars album, also have had this since it was first released. In fact, I forgot just how good this album is. And very quiet vinyl with great SQ. Always a treat! Eric Clapton 'Unplugged' Disc #2, fantastic album and recording. And super quiet vinyl. I'll play disc #1 tomorrow. |
3 records last night. Neil Young 'Harvest" Just got this reissue, had to listen to it again. Really nice! Stevie Ray Vaughan "The Sky Is Crying' AP/QRP Stevie was such a special person and musician. Awesome music. And this issue sounds out of this world. Little Wing is just jaw-dropping incredible. Pink Floyd 'The Division Bell' 20th anniversary double vinyl edition. Spectacular in both the music and SQ. I went to bed with my jaw still dragging on the floor. I mean, WOW!!! |
Tubes, tubes, tubes... I think that tomorrow I should play a couple Tubes albums. Man, they sure were a fun band in concert. I saw them three times in 3 years. I have a tube phono stage (Manley Chinook), a tube line stage preamp (BAT VK-33SE) and a solid state power amp (BAT VK-255SE). I am very close to changing my amp to a tube amp. I'm look at getting the new BAT amp that replaces the VK-76SE. Upscale Audio is allowing me to take home their floor sample of the VK-76SE and if that works well with my speakers then I will place an order for the next generation, new model. I guess that means I will be one of those "you guys & your tubes" LOL... |
Steppenwolf 'Monster' I have had this for many years, pp Carol King 'Tapestry' Mobile Fidelity reissue. Fantastic! Jeff Beck 'Truth' Originally I believe this was released in 1970. I bought this in 1974 so must be a repress. It never ceases to amaze me how much more depth and holographic the music becomes by around the third album. I have a Manley Chinook Special Edition MkII (Upscale Audio, with Tungsram cryo-treated tubes). Reading above, is the Herron really that much better? Which model is it that you have big_greg? |
Paul Simon 'There Goes Rhymin' Simon' NM condition, pp issue, I have had since it was first released. Excellent album! Neil Young 'Harvest' I just received this, it's the new Neil Young reissues. SQ is vastly superior to my original album. This is the second I purchase, after Neil Young S/T. Still need to get the other two of this early series (as soon as they are available). Paul McCartney & Wings 'Wild Life' This was the first Wings album. SQ is very good, but not superior. Excellent McCartney music. My favorite of the Wings albums. I have had this since 1974. |
My vinyl rig is back up and running, nicely I may add. Just listened to these... PJ Harvey 'To Bring You My Love' Thanks to all for turning me on to this artist. What a great album. From recorded total distortion and over modulation (such as on Long Snake Moan) to some of the cleanest and heavy bass tones, to well, just about everything. Some Marilyn Manson style in there, too. I'll take recommendation for what I should get of hers next. I should have more than one PJ in my collection. Benard Ighner 'Little Dreamer' If you know this artist then you know just how wonderful his velvety voice is. Benard is excellent! All produced and pressed in Japan, with obi strip. SQ is wonderful! Great story here. In 1979 I was manager at Pacific Stereo in Studio City. Long hair, a brand new '79 Datsun 280zx, girls, hi-fi, and some of the best delis and bagel shops, all within walking distance. Our customer base in Studio City included daily visits to the store of movie stars, producers, and plenty of musicians and recording engineers. It was a blast. Benard Ighner came in, my staff were all busy and I was the one to help him. I can't remember what he bought, but it was some good product. He came back the next day and thanked me with a copy of this album from his personal collection of first pressings. His inscription on it is "Joel, I hope this album gives many, many hours of listening pleasure and joy. Peace & blessings & blessings, Benard." I cherish this and it remains in perfect condition. Some other stuff going on tonight. More vinyl tomorrow. |
John Mayall 'Turning Point' This album title seemed like a good one, considering the verdict today. My system will be down for a few days. I'm having a resonance issue, intermittent, and it seems to be turntable/arm/cartridge or possibly phono stage (a tube?). Fortunately I live about 8 miles from Upscale Audio, I have known the owner for about 40 years, and we have a great relationship. Of course, That's where I buy my products so their help is always available. I'll watch the thread and be back at it after I get my rig up and running again. Enjoy the music! |
DynaMat is excellent for stopping ringing of metal. Great for car doors, floorboards, fire wall, rear quarter panels, etc. (I worked in the car audio industry for 34 years). Not necessarily for home audio products, though. Draining vibration, or, microphonics from within the audio component is more important and delivers better results, sonically. DynaMat or other such materials won't help that. A vibration drainage device/system is more in line to do so. However, if one chooses to dampen the component chassis vibration then maybe try a self adhesive sorbothane sheet. Audioquest sells 6" X 6" X 1/8" sheets and they are inexpensive. Recommended use is, for example, inside the top cover of a CD player. |
Brian, vibration control, as in vibration drainage from the internal parts of the component and drained out & away from the component. The sonic gains are of articulation and very fine definition that you find in the depth of listening. Vibration drainage greatly helps to maximize what the component has to offer. That's why I offered the Symposium website link. My two cents on the matter... Either way, do have fun. Last night... The B-52's 'Mesopotamia' I forgot how good this album is. So much instrumentation going on, a lot of fun. Great SQ. Golden Earing 'Moontan' Fabulous album, but lousy SQ. What a shame that it has no bass. Joan Armatrading 'To The Limit' Fabulous album, I love Joan. Now this album has bass!!! Stomo Yumashta, Steve Winwood, Michael Shrieve 'Go' Winwood is the highlight of this album, for me. This one can take you for a ride to outer space. Great one to end the night on. Drift off to sleep. |
Brian, Absolutely, go down the path of isolation and vibration control. It really pays off! I use Symposium Acoustics products both for the platform and the rollerblocks. The two products, when combined, provide a very positive outcome. There is a ton of reading on their website which provides a very good education. Symposium Acoustics (symposiumusa.com) Have fun... |
Ry Cooder 'Bop Till You Drop' This was one of the very first DAT (digital audio tape) recordings and made to a vinyl record. You can tell. But still, a good sounding record and very dynamic. Stevie Wonder 'Talking Book' I have had this since it was first released. In perfect condition. Sounds great! Stevie is wonderful. Thunderclap Newman 'Hollywood Dream' You should know the song on this album 'Something In The Air' which is very melodic but actually is a very radical and instigating song. I got my first copy when it released in 1970, I was a sophomore in high school. Of course, it became partied-out. I got my first real hi-fi in 1973 and bought a fresh copy, a reissue, and still on Track Records. It's in perfect condition. SQ is good, but not great. The music is wonderful. Great album! |
Yeah, I'd like to have that Ten Years After album. Brian, so much depth in the Don Juan album. And now that you have a great phono stage you realize what you had been missing. Do enjoy! Moody Blues 'In Search Of The Lost Chord' My favorite from the Moody Blues. Electric Light Orchestra 'A New World Record' I haven't listened to this in so long. It's way better than I remember, and that's a good thing😊 |
You guys got me interested in a PJ Harvey album. I must say, I am not at all familiar with her but your enthusiasm got my attention. What can you say/add about her music style, genre, etc.? And which of her albums would be the best choice? I see that her album "Stories From The City, Stories From The Sea" is highly acclaimed. Would that be my best choice? Thank you for the help. |
Dan Hicks and the Hot Licks 'Last Train To Hicksville' I bought this in 1973, right after I got my first real hi-fi system. Hot Tuna 'First Pull Up Then Pull Down' This is a live album from 1971. I also bought it in 1973. Had to have it because I saw them play in 1971. What a concert, outdoors, Hot Tuna then The Moody Blues and then The Jefferson Airplane. Playing this album, I could see the stage again. What great memories... |
@slaw, Steve, my reference to the good SQ on the Leon Russell album was with consideration that the original pressing was not so good. I assumed the master tape had more to offer and I was pleased that it turned out that way. No, it's not a "superior" SQ, but it is rather good and certainly enjoyable. And with the vinyl being so quiet that adds to the listening pleasure. And besides, many wonderful memories from those days. Try playing it at a moderate volume level, that makes all the difference. |
Leon Russell S/T My original copy was just way too thrashed. I got a reissue a couple of years ago by Audio Fidelity, limited edition #1,243. It's a blue vinyl, heavy, and flat. SQ is remarkably good, much better than the original. Buffalo Springfield 'Again' The above mention on this album, well, I just had to spin it. I'm so glad that I listened to the advice I got on this thread and bought the Box Set, 'What's That Sound'. SQ is just great! |