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Rediscovering records

I have a large collection of records (about 2000-3000) but  culled about 200-300 to play over and over again through the years.  I picked the best sounding ones when I had a mediocre analog setup because I thought most of the collection sounded poor. Some time ago I did a major upgrade to my record playing system (about $8000 worth) but still listened to the few hundred exclusively. Just recently I started to listen to the rest of the collection and discovered to my delight that most sounded wonderful.  The better equipment changed my listening habits dramatically.

rvpiano
mylogic
841 posts
 

I thought this post was all about vinyl?

Read the question.

Best practice is to keep the discussion pure, unpolluted with other formats?

”Rediscovering records” is brief enough to avoid misunderstanding.

newton_john's avatar
newton_john
560 posts
 

@audphile1 

​​​​​​Frustration with poor quality used vinyl overrated by sellers was one of the reasons that I got out of vinyl a few years ago. Also, some remastering is poor. You do have to be selective. However, pressings seem to be more consistent these days. Phil Hobbs of Linn Records said recently that plants are getting better at using the correct temperatures.

@rvpiano 

I totally agree about turntable upgrades taking vinyl to a whole new level. That's one of the reasons I got back into vinyl last year with a much upgraded version of the same model that I had before (bearing, power supply and phono stage). I am getting more out of it now. It has become my main source again.

foggyus91's avatar
foggyus91
612 posts
 

I have a great used record store in Dallas, Jose Records, buy all my previously loved vinyl there. I can inspect each album. Also find the Jazz, Classical and Blues vinyl is usually in better condition than Rock albums. I buy rock albums new...  

rvpiano's avatar
rvpiano OP
2,976 posts
 

@newton_john 

Yes, I was really delighted when I heard how much, much better my good sounding records sounded when I got a whole new setup.  
BUT, mediocre records, of which I have a majority, although better than before, did not benefit nearly as much.  I don’t think they justify the expense of really good equipment.  
Im really very happy, with the great sound of the good ones though.

ghdprentice's avatar
ghdprentice
9,462 posts
 

It is so dependent on how revealing the upgraded system is... how deep in the grooves... the very nature of the upgrade can enhance or detract from some or all. Very complicated line. I have found carefully cartridge choice is critical. Too revealing and it can really make many worse. But much better but musical really helps. But the follow up electronics also matter. My most recent cartridge is the Kotesu Rosewood Signature. I happily hit the point I was shooting for on the spectrum. 

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