While the switch to 45 RPM does bring with it some sonic improvements, I can't help but think that some of the switch is motivated by the record companies to gouge the consumer for more money. The move to heavier and thicker vinyl certainly is; it really adds nothing to the quality of these pressings and Classic's 200 gram vinyl appears to be turning into a quality control nightmare. Prices are getting outrageous-$50 here in Canada for the Clapton/Cale album (which I wouldn't buy because I'm not big on the music anyway) and $70 for the 45 RPM re-issues. If Dylan's Modern Times can be sold as a double for $25 in Canada, why is the Clapton/Cale $50? Because its 45 RPM? Give me a break. When you start talking $50-$70 for records, particularly if they're re-issues of older material, it starts to make sense to seek out originals or pre-digital re-issues which can sound great and be very cost effective. Not always easy, but at these prices it might be worth the effort particularly if you can buy 3 originals to get one good one and still end up paying the same price that you would to get the reissue.
Audiophiles seem to like to spend money though, and they seem to like gimmicks. While the 45 thing is not a total gimmick, the heavy vinyl thing definitely is.
Audiophiles seem to like to spend money though, and they seem to like gimmicks. While the 45 thing is not a total gimmick, the heavy vinyl thing definitely is.