33 1/2 compared to 45 rpm ????

Quite hard to answer, because it differs between records. Typically you'll find better detail, better imaging and room ambience, and more oomph.

Generally, everything is better, and many times it's not subtle at all. If you can live with changing sides & records more often, go with 45. :)

Raul, that's interesting, can you please cite some examples where a 33rpm version bests a 45rpm version - of the same recording I mean?

That goes against everything I've experienced so I'm intrigued to learn what you have found. :)

Very interesting, thanks Raul. I must've had luck then, or I should just compare more often!

I must say that most of my 45rpm's are pretty new releases, that might explain a few things. I'm listening to and am being stunned by Music Matters for example, but also to some of the older 1-sided Classic Records' 45 Series (which I find wildly better than the 33rpm's they released later).

I haven't heard many of the Fantasy 45 series by Analogue Productions unfortunately. Most of the ones I want are sold out and near-impossible to find. I've been looking for the 45rpm Saxophone Colossus by Sonny Rollins for some time, missed one at over $300 on eBay.. Surely it's not _that_ good, or is it? I have the older DCC LP which I find astonishing. Anyone knows if the AP 45rpm is better?