All the above is right on... I would add more warnings about Japanese pressings. While always quieter, they sometimes lack the punch of their American versions (which are, alas, almost always noisier, especially with things like prestige and blue note jazz) and sometimes they're downright amateurish (The Japanese Yes Album has one spot where they change volume mid-song!). So it's a trade-off. If you have a friendly vinyl store, they might let you compare (imports aren't usually sealed) side by side (bring in your version to the store). A couple stores here in Seattle will actually let me do that. Let's hear it for The Landing and Sonic Boom!
LP pressings..which country or label...
makes the best recordings besides the half speed audiophile stuff.
I've noticed sonic differences of the same album that were pressed in different countries and differences from pressings of the same country but on different labels from different eras.
Which label or country makes a superior recording or has the best mastering? I listen to rock, alternative and jazz.
I buy mostly new vinyl if the titles are available. I'm just tired of buying crap recordings and throwing my money away.
I realize that there are many variables when it comes to cutting a record, I just need some recommendations for good quality recordings.
I've noticed sonic differences of the same album that were pressed in different countries and differences from pressings of the same country but on different labels from different eras.
Which label or country makes a superior recording or has the best mastering? I listen to rock, alternative and jazz.
I buy mostly new vinyl if the titles are available. I'm just tired of buying crap recordings and throwing my money away.
I realize that there are many variables when it comes to cutting a record, I just need some recommendations for good quality recordings.