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Half speed masters. Are they worth the extra scratch?

I just purchased a Dire Straits Brothers in Arms half speed master. I'm using a Pioneer PL530 TT. Can this album be played successfully on my TT? I put it on 45 rpm but there is no way to tell if it is spinning at the right speed. The speed control is working but not keeping a steady reading like when I play a normal 33 record. It sounds good but I'm wondering if they should be played on a different table. Also is it worth it to pay extra money for these? I payed 50$ for this album. Thanks for any information.
knighttodd
fiesta75
1,535 posts
 
That was funny MC, but... In general half speed masters do sound better, but I only have 33 rpm versions, no 45's. One 1/2 speed of Blondie Parallel Lines sounds worse the original Chrysalis version. MC would tell you to buy a $500 selected "white hot stamper" from Better Records. Not all of us can afford that unfortunately.
knighttodd's avatar
knighttodd OP
220 posts
 
It's a 2 disc set done at Abbey Road with letter of certification. I will try the paper disc. I have it on 45 but the strobe I guess is only correct playing a 45. Maybe it's timeing is off a little for 45 rpm as it still moves a little at maximum set point. Spot on for 33/1/3. What cart is best for these records? 
stereo5's avatar
stereo5
6,717 posts
 
Perhaps there is a problem with the turntable.  If that is the case, I wouldn’t buy expensive records to play on it.   A newer turntable may be a better bet in the long run.  
knighttodd's avatar
knighttodd OP
220 posts
 
No, the TT has been checked out by the tech. He says it's in perfect condition. I just notice when set at 45rpm the strobe moves slightly. Does not hold steady like when on 33. 
oldhvymec
5,101 posts
 
What exactly is half-speed mastering? It’s a vinyl cutting process whereby the disc-cutting lathe for an LP is run at half the speed – so for an album that would be 16 and two thirds, which is half of 33 and a third – and the master source is run at half the speed as well.

The Master LP must have been a 78..???

Use a different set of strobe lines, OP your using the wrong set. There is a set for every speed your TT supports.. above or below the original strobe line you were using..., your actually adjusting to 60hz at a given speed, 16,33,45,78.. Just move the strobe a bit both ways, lesser and lesser. It may take 1/2 an hour, BUT you’re not recording that is what all that is about.. Your listening. WOW is really kind of a thing of the past... Rumble on the other hand.. Is alive and well..

There is a reason for a strobe. Not for listening though. BUT we’re all thought that’s what it’s for...NOPE recording, making your own new reel to reel or even cassettes.. LOL A thrust at save the LPs from ware an tear and to be able do your OWN mix....

Regards
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