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Does Steely Dan sound bright to you?

This is going to sound like a somewhat random question but I’m wondering how many of you find Steely Dan’s recordings to sound a bit bright. I’m particularly thinking of Gaucho, and Aja but some other recent recordings, too, such as Fagen’s Nightfly.

My typical media include streaming (CD and HD quality) and CD’s. I have not played my old vinyl because I’m presently without a turntable.

At first I thought it was my system and it was driving me a little bit mental; eventually, I decided it wasn't my stuff, it was their stuff. Because most other recordings on the same system with no other changes don’t typically have the brightness of Steely Dan.

Whether or not you’re a fan (I am) Steely Dan has often been a go-to for testing out equipment, so I imagine there will be experiences people have had about this.

P.S. Any other recordings which, for you are unnaturally bright?


128x128hilde45
knotscott's avatar
knotscott
796 posts
 
Donald Fagan's Nightfly is almost a really great recording, but just a tick on the hot side for my tastes.
millercarbon's avatar
millercarbon
12,531 posts
 
Aja is a masterpiece in every respect. If you are hearing it bright your problem lies elsewhere.   

Scheiner nails it. Natch.
hilde45's avatar
hilde45 OP
4,783 posts
 
Ok, good. I think I've gotten a reality check, here. Appreciate it.
decooney
1,896 posts
 
@hilde45
I listened to both tracks you noted;  Gaucho and Aja on [HD] using your same streaming service provider checking for HD and UltraHD versions.  My system is neutral and smooth, and those particular tracks are a tad lean and somewhat bright in comparison to many other tracks with the same service provider. Garbage in Garbage out on some of these digital recordings with some service providers. If you love these tracks, and persist to hear them, I can see as others have suggested this would make a good case for a vinyl rig.   
mapman's avatar
mapman
21,835 posts
 
THe original Aja on vinyl was an awesome recording.   It's possible other versions digital or otherwise don't measure up.    But I will say I have a CD copy of both Aja and gaucho and neither are bright.   WOuld I prefer the original vinyl?   Maybe, maybe not.    Would have to compare and decide.    
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