Wynton Marsalis/Jazz at Lincoln Center–The Democracy! Suite (24/96 download)
This was recorded “live in studio” in a Greek theater style room in the Lincoln Center. When I sit in the sweet spot and close my eyes, it sounds like having a front row seat. You can hear the septet lined up on the stage. The realism is just amazing. Best recording I’ve ever heard.
Nickel Creek–A Dotted Line (24/96 download)
This is a good one for hearing up close acoustic guitar and mandolin. As a guitar player, I’m blown away by how real Sean’s guitar sounds.
2 Likes
Recorded May 1960 in Kingsway Hall by Kenneth Wilkinson. Huge soundstage (large and deep), yet most precise and acute focalisation. In the explosive intro, the rumbling bass drum is more felt than heard; a ferocious test for extra-low registers restitution. Incredible dynamic range. Orchestral image both smooth and strong, and neutral colors. Total transparency: one can even hear when pages of the score are turned. A stellar recording, sounding much better than some modern high-res stuff. By many ways, including Solti’s muscle and handsome seduction, the most thrilling performance of this gorgeous Gaité Parisienne. All musicians of Covent Garden are outstanding there, but let’s say trombones and percussion play the game of their life.
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No wonder this one sounds as good as the best Yello (Boris Blank) recordings, just with better music.
Incredible depth of bass, definitely a recording to evaluate differences AND to have fun listening to it.
Play “Magnetic lies” for a check.
9 Likes
My Wilson dealer used this as his set-up disc.
i made a playlist in Roon with about 20 songs where Yello had female singers - very good music! Plus all of the songs test out your system nicely!
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Thanks for the recommendation. Order placed for the CD. Looking forward to it.
I was reminded again last night just how good a recording Paul Simon’s first solo album was. At least on the original LP; I haven’t heard it on CD or streamed, or any vinyl reissues (if there are any). It seems to have everything - broad dynamic range, good frequency extension (in both directions), solid imaging and soundstage, realistic timbral textures.
3 Likes
