I've been holding off on the VMP version because I have the mono box. I'll probably swap for it at some point when I don't care for the record of the month.
Blonde on Blonde is my second favorite album of Bob. My favorite is John Wesley Harding and has always been so relatable to me. Bob has so many great albums and Blonde on Blonde was his artistic best. Well done Mazzy! Another great presentation of another musical gem. Thanks
Remember this coming out in August 66 when l was 15,and spending what at the time seemed the enormous sum of £2.50 on my first double album. Read the review in Melody Maker and had to have it,although there was no mention of the sound quality unlike today. The inner photos captured the period as well as the music, the exhaustion, the drugs,the warehouse eyes and the feeling that this might REALLY be the end
Along with an early-70s stereo, I have the 2010 mono from Music on Vinyl. Haven't listened to it for a while, but I recall it blowing me away on first hearing.
Yesterday I ordered the MoFi so this was of interest to me. I have never owned this on vinyl before so looking forward to it. Nice job on comparing rekkids.
I’ve had many different versions of this, my favorite Dylan and always in my top 10 albums of all time. Ended up with the Sundazed Mono pressing from 2008. If I find a clean Stereo I’ll definitely pick it up too. Thanks for going over all your copies.
Well done sir. I think this might push me over the edge to get one of the VMP's. For some reason I had been thinking it was not AAA but digital like the MoFi. Cheers🍺
Mazzy with another splendid video I recently picked up this Vinyl Me Please I agree the OG mono has a slight edge i remember find the OG at a shop that was closing in Wicker Park Chicago ‘97 I was just getting heavily in to Dylan this album is one of my favorites of his. The Mofi is amazing it blew me away when I got it well done Mazzy I really enjoyed the story of this album and tracks break down and comparisons thanks . Lovellandrew
Hey Mazzy, I really appreciate your analysis of these versions. Can't comment further b/c I only have a 70's (or later) stereo copy. But enjoyed your reviews of all of these.
Thank you Mazzy; great overview. I am totally a stereo guy, but this is the only album I own where I ditched the stereo version for the mono version because it just sounds better. I'm not sure who put it out; I got it about six or seven years ago.
Mazzy..my fav Dylan album and my second fav album of all time…I had the 45 rpm MOFI and sold it..not being a fan of the 45 releases..My go to is the mono from the mono vinyl box set and a MOFI SACD..I would love to find a good stereo vinyl copy..loved this video..thank you Mazzy👍❤glen
Great video Mazzy. I have only ever owned a CD of this album as part of the “Complete Bob Dylan box set vol 1).”Always thought I should have a vinyl copy but didn’t know what version to go for. After watching this just checked on line and managed to pick up a mint MOFI in the UK at a very reasonable price from a good seller. Not a fan of MOFI’s shenanigans but if it sounds great that’s what matters (I buy records to listen to). You can chose not to buy after all. Can’t wait to listen to it now.
Great video Mazzy on one of the greatest Dylan albums. I have a little mystery here. Maybe you or someone in the VC may have an answer to this. I have two US original 360 label stereo copies. Neither copy has the picture of Claudia. I guess they are slightly later copies. Now I have another Canadian second stereo pressing released 1972 with the columbia ring label. This pressing does have the picture of Claudia. How is this possible if only the most earliest copies had her picture before it was replaced. Any thoughts?
Good video as always, thank you for the elegant touch! I have the VMP mono version, not a member either, I played last week, I like the music and the recording but the harmonica was too high and forward for my taste. I thought maybe the VTA was off so I worked on it to tune down that high frequency, using the sound of piano keys. I’ll play the record again after the VTA adjustment.
Ooooh, I've been waiting for this. I have 4 copies, 2 Stereo1st pressings, a '72 Repress and the new VMP Mono. I think the VMP sounds best by far... now to watch. I wish I had a clean OG Mono.
Mazzy, the stereo 66 and 68 second pressing are really good. I highly recommend you check one of those out. I once owned the sundazed mono that came out around ten years ago. They did not sound good at all, very muddy, I sold those off. My 68 stereo is the best sounding one.
I love that record. I remember when i was born in january 1966, i couldn’t wait for this to come out (inside information). No. Jokes aside. This release is just gorgeous. I love it, Norman. Nice video, btw.
Thanks Sir, I always enjoy your reviews. VMP is outstanding, but then again I don’t have the original. I have the MOFI, which I’d also good. Many thanks
As big of a fan of Dylan I am, Blonde on Blonde has never been in my top 10, which isn't to say that I don't dislike it. I Want You, Obviously 5 Believers, Just Like a Woman, all killer tracks! I love the Old Crow Medicine Show live record of this album as well. Thanks for your break down Mazzy!
Thanks Mazzy. Roger Ford's Electric Dylan site is essential for going deep into BOB editions. The US, UK and Canadian mixes are all different, before you even factor mono and stereo. Btw, my 1968 US mono and 1966 US stereo are as good as the later equivalent reissues I've heard. The early pressings were so well made, it really is worth looking for decent condition copies. My 1968 US mono cost around £50 on ebay from a seller in the US and it's a NM-
The book “That Thin Wild Mercury Sound: Nashville, and the Making of Blond on Blond” is a fascinating read. Really digs deep into the history of the album.
THX MAZZY I FEEL BETTER ABOUT BUYING IT NOW I ORDERED IT A WEEK AGO. BEING A CANADIAN WITH EXCHANGE... CRAZY EXPENSIVE SIGH AS YOU SAY IM NOT ALL IN VMP.. LOL.. BUT I LOOK FORWARD TO GETTING IT AND SPINNING IT.. !! MAZZY I LOVE YOU LOL K STAY AWESOME!! THX FOR YOUR IMPUT ALWAYS APPIREICATE YOU!! CHEERS
Great video!. VMP is worth joining (IMO). I have enjoyed everything I got from them and when you do not want the selection of the month they credit you and you can get something else. You just have to pay up front to get the cheapest (and free shipping). Plus, they just started the exclusive Dolly Parton VMP selection (if you like Dolly). The jazz/ soul reissues have been really great, and I have actually gotten several Country records from them. For me, I love when you can get it cheaper- saves in the long run. On the not so stellar side, there box sets are a little pricey (though I did get the Caudet one) I wanted the Philadelphia Sound one, but it was real pricey ( IMO) especially when you can find these OG and in great quality for not a lot of money and in the box set they came out to around 45 bucks each.
interesting...i have the 'original' stereo 360, pops and all, but it suits my needs just fine...the only mo-fi i would be interested in getting would be dylan's 'desire', simply because the original production is just so muddy, and from what i've heard (from you and others), is that the sound is really cleaned up...but still, this was really interesting and alot of effort put into it...nicely done...hope you are staying well my friend...we'll get thru these crappy below freezing temps...one day...till then...peace always...rocky
Mazzy, do you have the Simply Vinyl version which used a different British stereo mix (probably by accident)? I believe it's a slightly different from the US stereo mix. I have it and it sounds fantastic.
Cool Video Norman, what do you think about the MOV mono pressing of this album? That's the one I got, I want to get me another pressing of Blonde on Blonde, which one would you recomend?
Thanks Mazzy. I've been debating getting a MoFi for a long, long time. Maybe you swayed me? I dunno. According to "That Thin, Wild Mercury sound by Daryl Sanders, the mono version took 3-4 days to mix and the stereo was done in 4 hours (as an afterthought). Its a pretty good read. 200 pages all about Blonde on Blonde. For me instrument-wise, the snare drum really makes the record. Best rock album. Period.
People say that mono took longer for pretty much every album as a way to say the mixer cares so much more about the mono. I think it's just a lot harder to get a good mono mix and you have to spend more time with it as opposed to the mixer not caring about stereo
That mobile fidelity release sounds incredible to these ears , and a proper UK stereo first pressing ie. the flip back sleeve cover with a1 , b1 , c1 , and d1 matrix equals it .
Thanks Norman. Great video. Blonde on Blonde is my absolute No1 Dylan record. Funny enough I just recently did a similar comparison and have 3 of the 4 versions you had ( all but the early 70 stereo reissue. Instead I have a 68 US repress which is already the alternate stereo mix ). My favorite is the 1st US mono which is close to the VMP but to me has more pressure and a bit stronger sound. Regarding stereo I really like the most MFSL 45rpm Dylan like John Wesley Harding, Desire or Oh Mercy. Unfortunately I don't really like the Blonde on Blonde MFSL. It has great dynamics and soundstage but to me Dylan's voice is often kind of shrill especially when he is singing words with a strong 's' really ringing in my ears like a very sharp sssh. Therefore I really prefer the 68 stereo repress vs the MFSL. But as you mentioned it is all about personal taste. Thanks
Thanks for the informative comparison. MoFi's web site - now - lists this as "DSD 64 to analogue console to lathe." Journalist Fremer's Sept 25, 2013 review from Analog Planet raved about it, and I bought it at some point after reading his review, mainly because it was a stereo set but also thinking it was, as the expression goes, 'cut from the tape.' Anyway, glad to hear you like it. I have yet to crack open but plan to and the digital step doesn't bother me if it sounds great.
@@Matasky2010 Hmm... the "Noise" double slipped past you. And I thought I mentioned in the last sentence that I plan to. I did not have my upgraded stereo componants or even a proper room to listen on anything at the time. I wanted to buy this particular stereo mix before it went out of print--in large part due to that review.
Thanks for watching and commenting. Once in aw it’s fun to compare different versions on albums I love. It’s simply how each version presents a somewhat different sound if the same music. I hope elitism is never a part of it. ✌🏻
I'm also a 'stereo' guy. I bought the 2021 stereo copy that came out last spring, the USA version cut by RKS. Nice that VMP did a tip-on jacket, it would be great if some the regular reissues coming out would up the game a little, better pressing quality, and raising the bar to tip-on jackets on everything. It doesn't cost much more really.
I'm surprised you didn't use One of Us Must Know as a comparing track. I think it's one of the most layered tracks on the album and where the difference between stereo and mono is more pronounced.
Hargus “Pig” Robbins (RIP). He’s a Nashville legend I first became aware of from Sturgill Simpson’s first record (from 2013 I think) and then later I learned he played on Blonde on Blonde!
I'm lucky enough to have an original '66 pressing of both mono & stereo. I sold the Mono Box version because it was just redundant. The Mono strikes me as punchier than the Stereo, but the Stereo has its appeal for sure. Need both!
I'm getting the VMP copy for the print. Yes indeed. Thanks. Oh, and I think the 10 record Fragments may be sold out. I pre-ordered from BoB himself. Price was nice.
According to "That Thin, Wild Mercury sound by Daryl Sanders, the mono version took 3-4 days to mix and the stereo was done in 4 hours (as an afterthought).
I love the MOFI, when I bought it probably about 8 years ago now, I had no idea about the DSD step and it sounds fantastic . I have UK 1966 mono and a stereo pressing that still sound great, I think the UK pressings were far better than the US pressing. The VMP is very good, but expensive for what it is, but if you want a great new pressing of the mono the DeAgostini 'The definitive Dylan Vinyl Collection" pressing is fantastic and they're available very, very reasonably compared to the VMP.
Mazzy, the mixes are different for the stereo versions. The vintage stereo mixes went through several iterations (the earliest ones even contain instruments that were mixed out later). By the time your early 70s pressing came out, the mixes stabilised somewhat, but other countries like the UK continued to use the older mixes. It‘s a hodge-podge. These vintage stereo mixes were never released digitally. The Mofi uses a modern remix done by Mark Wilder (I think it was him).
Michael Brauer did the Bob Dylan catalog in 1999. Mofi used Brauer's mix. I feel everyone should be taking this into consideration. Brauer's mixes sound better and improved.
@@ctal615 Thank you, correct. Indeed, the Brauer mixes have better fidelity (most easily noticeable on the drum intro of I Want You). Whether or not the overall _vibe_ is improved is a matter of taste. I think Sony should have released the vintage mixes as well, alongside the remixes.
I bought it when it came out, and I remember thinking I got a defective album cover because mine was kind of blurry. Only later did I find out they were all blurry. :)
Norrrr-mannnn!! I have an uncle named Norman. About the ONLY thing you two have in common. So, nice video on Blonde on Blonde. Blood on the Tracks is still my favorite Zimmy record but Blonde is probably #2. Got it on SACD, CD and vinyl buuuuut - here's what I got on vinyl - MONO: 1966 OG version which has accumulated a little noise over time but heck it's an old record. My sister gave it to me a long time ago, and I think the stylus on her, ahem, "stereo system" doubled as a wood chipper? Could it be? Still an enjoyable listen in-between the intermittent pop & clicks. Punchy! MONO: 2021 Sony/Legacy import from the UK. Beautiful, dead silent vinyl pressing. Sounds terrific. Very impressive reissue. MONO: Recent VMP version. Have not listened to it as of yet but packaging, swag and colored vinyl look nice. STEREO: 1968 repress. A very minor pop & click here and there but nothing major. Sounds great. STEREO: 1972 repress. Everything is minty from jacket to vinyl. Bought this one new while in 9th grade, so in 1975? Fanstastic!! STEREO: 2022 Columbia repress. Sounds great. Very quiet. Really good pressing. Did I need it? No. Could I stop myself from buying it? No. STEREO - Mobile Fidelity box set. On another level. Like you, I prefer to hear this Dylan album in stereo. I think my three non-audiophile pressings all sound terrific. The Mo-Fi pressing is a clear step up in overall sound quality without a doubt. However, I do enjoy listening to my 33 1/3 pressings equally because I don't have to get up as much to change records. Conclusion: Overall this has been a lucky album on vinyl as far a quality goes. See ya Norm! P.S. Keep waiting for you to pull a Jethro Tull album on Whack-a-mole but it just-never-happens. Thinking now you don't have any.
I wish I could buy the Mofi now that it is in stock again. I love your comparisons. I have been seeking out copies, and have a Near Mint Stereo 1st pressing. I have not heard a quality recording at all, although I obviously love the album musically. Until the VMP, I was content to say that I do not agree with any of the written accolades that talk about that thin "whatever" the album was supposed to have. I still don't think any of it sounds great as in production or recording quality, some of that actually is pretty mediocre in my opinion. Even with that, to me it is a top 5 album of all time, as a complete work of art. ...nothing really nothing to turn off.
"Blonde on Blonde" casts a melancholy spell like no other record I can think of. "Sad Eyed Lady..." has always sounded rolled off and muffled to me, but I assumed that was intentional, part of the atmosphere it creates. I'm not a fan of the newfangled 45 rpm "audiophile" albums because the artists didn't mean for their albums to be listened to that way. They were designed to be heard one side at a time. (Even CDs sometimes distorted the way certain '60s and '70s albums were sequenced by putting both sides on one CD side.) But I'm a little surprised that all 11:23 of "Sad Eyed Lady," which took up an entire 33 1/3 side, still fits at 45 rpm!
2 ex's back to back both had blonde bobs. One Londoner, one Manc. Mel was big on music, Pam was big on books. One had thighs like headphones - - both did as a matter of fact - - and not even humminguru could clean up their act.
The worst thing about the MFSL is hearing the analog tape being transferred to DSD…it just sounds too DSD’y. Plus I’ll borrow Michael 45 usual phrase that the tape doesn’t sound as fresh 🤨
@@mazzysmusic Literally last 10 records I bought had issues. Just got a Silver Jews - Lookout mountain that has an audible warp this morning! Guess im just unlucky
bob had the right idea to put the claudia cardinale photo in there but she disallowed it. that version and VMP version are the 2 i would own (if only....). an argument could be made that a better chosen tracklist including "can't help falling in love", "pretty saro" "a fool such as i", "spanish is the loving tongue" and leaving off "the boxer" and all of the isle of wight cuts except "the mighty quinn" and self-portrait would be as good as you believe it is now. bob can do very, very little wrong...even if paul simon believes his best work was done by the early 70's and more importantly that he's paul "effin" simon. i don't dispute the last part except when he's addressing bob dylan and john lennon!
I have the recent Japanese reissue and '68 UK Stereo with Claudia Cardinale in the gatefold. I have to say the Japanese is the better out of the two. I agree with you about the stereo version. I borrowed an original UK Mono and I found everything too upfront. Too aggressive almost. Then again I am used to the stereo. I consider it a relax in your armchair kind of album. Some people prefer the OG UK Mono & Stereo to the US versions. Different presentation I assume. Lot of good pressings with this record.
I have the 2019 Italian Reissue from the De Agostini publication. Terrible pressing, at least mine is (i see good reviews on the internet) totally distorted
I've always been an "original" guy and have original 360 mono and stereo copies of this that are close to near mint. I guess I just don't buy reissues or Original Master Recordings. But has anyone noticed that the pictures on the reissues are somewhat "out of focus"? Drives me nuts and I may sound anal. I was all ready to buy a used OMR copy of "Ziggy Stardust" but the cover picture was so out of focus that I changed my mind. Chastise me please if you think I'm way out of line here. By the way, I think the live versions of some of these songs on LIve 1966 are better than the Blonde On Blonde versions. Especially "4th Time Around". From below, I think it should be "jibe"...
..."didn't do psychedelics"??? The guy that wrote Mr. Tambourine Man? ...and said mushrooms weren't a real drug because everyone should have their mind warped every now and then? Are you sure you know what psychedelics are?
If you watched, then you would know that yes, the music comes first. When it’s your very favorite food, it’s nice to taste it prepared in different ways by different chefs occasionally.
What the songs say is the point of it. The words are the reason for the record. I love my hi fi and the sound quality is a good topic but how about talking about the lyrics A LITTLE Sheesh man..
Damn. I forgot to pull out my mono box copy but Ive heard it jives with the VMP.
Apologies for my poor English, but what does it mean that it jives?
@@andysmusicden it jives in this case is that it aligns. Is similar.
I've been holding off on the VMP version because I have the mono box. I'll probably swap for it at some point when I don't care for the record of the month.
@@mazzysmusic jibes*
@@andysmusicdenthe correct word is “jibe”.
Blonde on Blonde is my second favorite album of Bob. My favorite is John Wesley Harding and has always been so relatable to me. Bob has so many great albums and Blonde on Blonde was his artistic best. Well done Mazzy! Another great presentation of another musical gem. Thanks
Remember this coming out in August 66 when l was 15,and spending what at the time seemed the enormous sum of £2.50 on my first double album. Read the review in Melody Maker and had to have it,although there was no mention of the sound quality unlike today. The inner photos captured the period as well as the music, the exhaustion, the drugs,the warehouse eyes and the feeling that this might REALLY be the end
Along with an early-70s stereo, I have the 2010 mono from Music on Vinyl. Haven't listened to it for a while, but I recall it blowing me away on first hearing.
A great companion video 👌
Thanks Mazzy for your insights 👏
Was looking forward to this video! I think I'll order VMP edition to compare it to my MOFI. Thanks, Mazzy!
This was terrific. Thanks for taking the many hours out of your day😂
Yesterday I ordered the MoFi so this was of interest to me. I have never owned this on vinyl before so looking forward to it. Nice job on comparing rekkids.
I’ve had many different versions of this, my favorite Dylan and always in my top 10 albums of all time. Ended up with the Sundazed Mono pressing from 2008. If I find a clean Stereo I’ll definitely pick it up too. Thanks for going over all your copies.
Nice presentation, enjoy how you went from one to another. This type of depth presentation would be a good series.
You picked my favorite songs on perhaps my favorite album of all time!
Well done sir. I think this might push me over the edge to get one of the VMP's. For some reason I had been thinking it was not AAA but digital like the MoFi. Cheers🍺
Excellent video, very enjoyable and informative. Please do more like this.
Mazzy with another splendid video I recently picked up this Vinyl Me Please I agree the OG mono has a slight edge i remember find the OG at a shop that was closing in Wicker Park Chicago ‘97 I was just getting heavily in to Dylan this album is one of my favorites of his. The Mofi is amazing it blew me away when I got it well done Mazzy I really enjoyed the story of this album and tracks break down and comparisons thanks . Lovellandrew
Only the truly great albums deserve a comparison video. Great job.
Thanks!
I love this album. I agree that shoot outs are just for fun. All of these versions of this record are an enjoyable listen. Take care Mazzy!
Thank you Melinda. You can tell I love this record 🎸
Excellent video Mazzy. First time I’ve seen you do a comparison video and I thought it was better than most.
Occasional I’ll make one of these but only when it’s an album that means a lot. Easier when you really know the material.
Hey Mazzy, I really appreciate your analysis of these versions. Can't comment further b/c I only have a 70's (or later) stereo copy. But enjoyed your reviews of all of these.
Thanks Massey 😊. Very informative.
Thank you Mazzy; great overview. I am totally a stereo guy, but this is the only album I own where I ditched the stereo version for the mono version because it just sounds better. I'm not sure who put it out; I got it about six or seven years ago.
Mazzy..my fav Dylan album and my second fav album of all time…I had the 45 rpm MOFI and sold it..not being a fan of the 45 releases..My go to is the mono from the mono vinyl box set and a MOFI SACD..I would love to find a good stereo vinyl copy..loved this video..thank you Mazzy👍❤glen
Well done. The comparison of the albums was well thought out. I’m glad you noted that liking something is purely subjective and your mileage may vary.
Thanks Mazzy. I have a Columbia mono and stereo. I need to revisit this album.
I see you have a link to this post today on Expecting Rain. Well done excellent podcast.
Awesome video!
Thanks for the visit
Great video Mazzy. I have only ever owned a CD of this album as part of the “Complete Bob Dylan box set vol 1).”Always thought I should have a vinyl copy but didn’t know what version to go for. After watching this just checked on line and managed to pick up a mint MOFI in the UK at a very reasonable price from a good seller. Not a fan of MOFI’s shenanigans but if it sounds great that’s what matters (I buy records to listen to). You can chose not to buy after all. Can’t wait to listen to it now.
Great video Mazzy on one of the greatest Dylan albums. I have a little mystery here. Maybe you or someone in the VC may have an answer to this. I have two US original 360 label stereo copies. Neither copy has the picture of Claudia. I guess they are slightly later copies. Now I have another Canadian second stereo pressing released 1972 with the columbia ring label. This pressing does have the picture of Claudia. How is this possible if only the most earliest copies had her picture before it was replaced. Any thoughts?
It’s my favourite Dylan’s record as well so thank you for the review!!
Than you for watching ✌🏼
Good video as always, thank you for the elegant touch! I have the VMP mono version, not a member either, I played last week, I like the music and the recording but the harmonica was too high and forward for my taste. I thought maybe the VTA was off so I worked on it to tune down that high frequency, using the sound of piano keys. I’ll play the record again after the VTA adjustment.
Very well articulated
😏😎
Ooooh, I've been waiting for this. I have 4 copies, 2 Stereo1st pressings, a '72 Repress and the new VMP Mono. I think the VMP sounds best by far... now to watch. I wish I had a clean OG Mono.
Mazzy, the stereo 66 and 68 second pressing are really good. I highly recommend you check one of those out. I once owned the sundazed mono that came out around ten years ago. They did not sound good at all, very muddy, I sold those off. My 68 stereo is the best sounding one.
This VMP version was my first ever of this album. I just got Nashville skyline from Harry so I’m getting a pretty filled in Dylan collection
I love that record. I remember when i was born in january 1966, i couldn’t wait for this to come out (inside information). No. Jokes aside. This release is just gorgeous. I love it, Norman. Nice video, btw.
😏🤠🤷🏻♂️
Thanks Sir, I always enjoy your reviews. VMP is outstanding, but then again I don’t have the original. I have the MOFI, which I’d also good. Many thanks
Nice one. Very interesting
As big of a fan of Dylan I am, Blonde on Blonde has never been in my top 10, which isn't to say that I don't dislike it. I Want You, Obviously 5 Believers, Just Like a Woman, all killer tracks! I love the Old Crow Medicine Show live record of this album as well. Thanks for your break down Mazzy!
Thanks Mazzy. Roger Ford's Electric Dylan site is essential for going deep into BOB editions. The US, UK and Canadian mixes are all different, before you even factor mono and stereo. Btw, my 1968 US mono and 1966 US stereo are as good as the later equivalent reissues I've heard. The early pressings were so well made, it really is worth looking for decent condition copies. My 1968 US mono cost around £50 on ebay from a seller in the US and it's a NM-
The book “That Thin Wild Mercury Sound: Nashville, and the Making of Blond on Blond” is a fascinating read. Really digs deep into the history of the album.
Sure is. Got a copy a year or so ago while Dylan was playing Beacon. Read the hell out of it.
THX MAZZY I FEEL BETTER ABOUT BUYING IT NOW I ORDERED IT A WEEK AGO. BEING A CANADIAN WITH EXCHANGE... CRAZY EXPENSIVE SIGH AS YOU SAY IM NOT ALL IN VMP.. LOL.. BUT I LOOK FORWARD TO GETTING IT AND SPINNING IT.. !! MAZZY I LOVE YOU LOL K STAY AWESOME!! THX FOR YOUR IMPUT ALWAYS APPIREICATE YOU!! CHEERS
Great video!. VMP is worth joining (IMO). I have enjoyed everything I got from them and when you do not want the selection of the month they credit you and you can get something else. You just have to pay up front to get the cheapest (and free shipping). Plus, they just started the exclusive Dolly Parton VMP selection (if you like Dolly). The jazz/ soul reissues have been really great, and I have actually gotten several Country records from them. For me, I love when you can get it cheaper- saves in the long run. On the not so stellar side, there box sets are a little pricey (though I did get the Caudet one) I wanted the Philadelphia Sound one, but it was real pricey ( IMO) especially when you can find these OG and in great quality for not a lot of money and in the box set they came out to around 45 bucks each.
interesting...i have the 'original' stereo 360, pops and all, but it suits my needs just fine...the only mo-fi i would be interested in getting would be dylan's 'desire', simply because the original production is just so muddy, and from what i've heard (from you and others), is that the sound is really cleaned up...but still, this was really interesting and alot of effort put into it...nicely done...hope you are staying well my friend...we'll get thru these crappy below freezing temps...one day...till then...peace always...rocky
Mazzy, do you have the Simply Vinyl version which used a different British stereo mix (probably by accident)? I believe it's a slightly different from the US stereo mix. I have it and it sounds fantastic.
I do not. Just these four on vinyl plus an SACD
Cool Video Norman, what do you think about the MOV mono pressing of this album? That's the one I got, I want to get me another pressing of Blonde on Blonde, which one would you recomend?
Haven’t heard the MOV. Maybe try the MoFi.
Thanks Mazzy. I've been debating getting a MoFi for a long, long time. Maybe you swayed me? I dunno. According to "That Thin, Wild Mercury sound by Daryl Sanders, the mono version took 3-4 days to mix and the stereo was done in 4 hours (as an afterthought). Its a pretty good read. 200 pages all about Blonde on Blonde.
For me instrument-wise, the snare drum really makes the record. Best rock album. Period.
People say that mono took longer for pretty much every album as a way to say the mixer cares so much more about the mono. I think it's just a lot harder to get a good mono mix and you have to spend more time with it as opposed to the mixer not caring about stereo
That mobile fidelity release sounds incredible to these ears , and a proper UK stereo first pressing ie. the flip back sleeve cover with a1 , b1 , c1 , and d1 matrix equals it .
Haven’t heart the UK or the earlier stereo mix. I might have to seek one out ✌🏼
Thanks Norman. Great video. Blonde on Blonde is my absolute No1 Dylan record. Funny enough I just recently did a similar comparison and have 3 of the 4 versions you had ( all but the early 70 stereo reissue. Instead I have a 68 US repress which is already the alternate stereo mix ). My favorite is the 1st US mono which is close to the VMP but to me has more pressure and a bit stronger sound. Regarding stereo I really like the most MFSL 45rpm Dylan like John Wesley Harding, Desire or Oh Mercy. Unfortunately I don't really like the Blonde on Blonde MFSL. It has great dynamics and soundstage but to me Dylan's voice is often kind of shrill especially when he is singing words with a strong 's' really ringing in my ears like a very sharp sssh. Therefore I really prefer the 68 stereo repress vs the MFSL. But as you mentioned it is all about personal taste. Thanks
Thanks for the informative comparison. MoFi's web site - now - lists this as "DSD 64 to analogue console to lathe." Journalist Fremer's Sept 25, 2013 review from Analog Planet raved about it, and I bought it at some point after reading his review, mainly because it was a stereo set but also thinking it was, as the expression goes, 'cut from the tape.' Anyway, glad to hear you like it. I have yet to crack open but plan to and the digital step doesn't bother me if it sounds great.
Does it matter if it was 'cut from the tape' if you're not even going to listen to it? Oh wait- you're an 'Audiophile', now it makes sense lol.
@@Matasky2010 Hmm... the "Noise" double slipped past you. And I thought I mentioned in the last sentence that I plan to. I did not have my upgraded stereo componants or even a proper room to listen on anything at the time. I wanted to buy this particular stereo mix before it went out of print--in large part due to that review.
Very nice presentation my man and I do like your non elitist audiophile point-of-view
Thanks for watching and commenting. Once in aw it’s fun to compare different versions on albums I love. It’s simply how each version presents a somewhat different sound if the same music. I hope elitism is never a part of it. ✌🏻
Actually gave examples of what was different as opposed to just saying how fantastic they sound ten times.
I'm also a 'stereo' guy. I bought the 2021 stereo copy that came out last spring, the USA version cut by RKS. Nice that VMP did a tip-on jacket, it would be great if some the regular reissues coming out would up the game a little, better pressing quality, and raising the bar to tip-on jackets on everything. It doesn't cost much more really.
I'm surprised you didn't use One of Us Must Know as a comparing track. I think it's one of the most layered tracks on the album and where the difference between stereo and mono is more pronounced.
Hargus “Pig” Robbins (RIP). He’s a Nashville legend I first became aware of from Sturgill Simpson’s first record (from 2013 I think) and then later I learned he played on Blonde on Blonde!
Yeah ✌🏼
I'm lucky enough to have an original '66 pressing of both mono & stereo. I sold the Mono Box version because it was just redundant. The Mono strikes me as punchier than the Stereo, but the Stereo has its appeal for sure. Need both!
I'm getting the VMP copy for the print. Yes indeed. Thanks. Oh, and I think the 10 record Fragments may be sold out. I pre-ordered from BoB himself. Price was nice.
You should buy a Canadian mono if you ever come across it. It's a different early mix and contains some striking differences
The french ’66 too!
I appreciate the equivocation here. Refreshingly honest.
Was this Album originally mixed from the Studio in Mono?
I think so. But don’t have specific info 🤷🏻♂️
According to "That Thin, Wild Mercury sound by Daryl Sanders, the mono version took 3-4 days to mix and the stereo was done in 4 hours (as an afterthought).
Mazzy,
Love your reviews.
Mr. Pete---------->
aging hippie
I love the MOFI, when I bought it probably about 8 years ago now, I had no idea about the DSD step and it sounds fantastic . I have UK 1966 mono and a stereo pressing that still sound great, I think the UK pressings were far better than the US pressing. The VMP is very good, but expensive for what it is, but if you want a great new pressing of the mono the DeAgostini 'The definitive Dylan Vinyl Collection" pressing is fantastic and they're available very, very reasonably compared to the VMP.
It is WFDU 89.1 fundraiser in NJ/ NY area.
Please donate to this great college radio program .
Give them a listen and give You Tube a break
I really liked the The Transitional Trilogy reference a lot. Just like Picasso!!
Mazzy, the mixes are different for the stereo versions. The vintage stereo mixes went through several iterations (the earliest ones even contain instruments that were mixed out later). By the time your early 70s pressing came out, the mixes stabilised somewhat, but other countries like the UK continued to use the older mixes. It‘s a hodge-podge. These vintage stereo mixes were never released digitally. The Mofi uses a modern remix done by Mark Wilder (I think it was him).
Michael Brauer did the Bob Dylan catalog in 1999. Mofi used Brauer's mix. I feel everyone should be taking this into consideration. Brauer's mixes sound better and improved.
@@ctal615 Thank you, correct. Indeed, the Brauer mixes have better fidelity (most easily noticeable on the drum intro of I Want You). Whether or not the overall _vibe_ is improved is a matter of taste. I think Sony should have released the vintage mixes as well, alongside the remixes.
I bought it when it came out, and I remember thinking I got a defective album cover because mine was kind of blurry. Only later did I find out they were all blurry. :)
Norrrr-mannnn!! I have an uncle named Norman. About the ONLY thing you two have in common. So, nice video on Blonde on Blonde. Blood on the Tracks is still my favorite Zimmy record but Blonde is probably #2. Got it on SACD, CD and vinyl buuuuut - here's what I got on vinyl - MONO: 1966 OG version which has accumulated a little noise over time but heck it's an old record. My sister gave it to me a long time ago, and I think the stylus on her, ahem, "stereo system" doubled as a wood chipper? Could it be? Still an enjoyable listen in-between the intermittent pop & clicks. Punchy! MONO: 2021 Sony/Legacy import from the UK. Beautiful, dead silent vinyl pressing. Sounds terrific. Very impressive reissue. MONO: Recent VMP version. Have not listened to it as of yet but packaging, swag and colored vinyl look nice. STEREO: 1968 repress. A very minor pop & click here and there but nothing major. Sounds great. STEREO: 1972 repress. Everything is minty from jacket to vinyl. Bought this one new while in 9th grade, so in 1975? Fanstastic!! STEREO: 2022 Columbia repress. Sounds great. Very quiet. Really good pressing. Did I need it? No. Could I stop myself from buying it? No. STEREO - Mobile Fidelity box set. On another level. Like you, I prefer to hear this Dylan album in stereo. I think my three non-audiophile pressings all sound terrific. The Mo-Fi pressing is a clear step up in overall sound quality without a doubt. However, I do enjoy listening to my 33 1/3 pressings equally because I don't have to get up as much to change records. Conclusion: Overall this has been a lucky album on vinyl as far a quality goes. See ya Norm! P.S. Keep waiting for you to pull a Jethro Tull album on Whack-a-mole but it just-never-happens. Thinking now you don't have any.
I have the first five Tull records ✌🏼
Which version of "All Along the Watch Tower" did you like the best? Dylan or Hendrix?
Try to find the withdrawn french or canadian 1966 mono pressings. They’re quite different.
'Visions of Johanna' is probably my fav, depending on the day of course.
Yes ✌🏼
Does anyone know if any official recordings of Planet Waves outtakes have ever been released? I know the Bootleg series hasnt......
I hear that Dylan spent almost a week supervising the mix on the Mono and less than 4 hours on the stereo ...
I wish I could buy the Mofi now that it is in stock again. I love your comparisons. I have been seeking out copies, and have a Near Mint Stereo 1st pressing. I have not heard a quality recording at all, although I obviously love the album musically. Until the VMP, I was content to say that I do not agree with any of the written accolades that talk about that thin "whatever" the album was supposed to have. I still don't think any of it sounds great as in production or recording quality, some of that actually is pretty mediocre in my opinion. Even with that, to me it is a top 5 album of all time, as a complete work of art. ...nothing really nothing to turn off.
"Blonde on Blonde" casts a melancholy spell like no other record I can think of. "Sad Eyed Lady..." has always sounded rolled off and muffled to me, but I assumed that was intentional, part of the atmosphere it creates. I'm not a fan of the newfangled 45 rpm "audiophile" albums because the artists didn't mean for their albums to be listened to that way. They were designed to be heard one side at a time. (Even CDs sometimes distorted the way certain '60s and '70s albums were sequenced by putting both sides on one CD side.) But I'm a little surprised that all 11:23 of "Sad Eyed Lady," which took up an entire 33 1/3 side, still fits at 45 rpm!
2 ex's back to back both had blonde bobs. One Londoner, one Manc. Mel was big on music, Pam was big on books. One had thighs like headphones - - both did as a matter of fact - - and not even humminguru could clean up their act.
The worst thing about the MFSL is hearing the analog tape being transferred to DSD…it just sounds too DSD’y. Plus I’ll borrow Michael 45 usual phrase that the tape doesn’t sound as fresh 🤨
I'd just really love to buy a new record that isn't warped and has a centered spindle hole. Is this possible anymore?
🤷🏻♂️I rarely get new LPs with issues
@@mazzysmusic Literally last 10 records I bought had issues. Just got a Silver Jews - Lookout mountain that has an audible warp this morning! Guess im just unlucky
bob had the right idea to put the claudia cardinale photo in there but she disallowed it. that version and VMP version are the 2 i would own (if only....). an argument could be made that a better chosen tracklist including "can't help falling in love", "pretty saro" "a fool such as i", "spanish is the loving tongue" and leaving off "the boxer" and all of the isle of wight cuts except "the mighty quinn" and self-portrait would be as good as you believe it is now. bob can do very, very little wrong...even if paul simon believes his best work was done by the early 70's and more importantly that he's paul "effin" simon. i don't dispute the last part except when he's addressing bob dylan and john lennon!
I will stick with my 70's pressing it is what i have and what i grew up with
c2s 841
I have the recent Japanese reissue and '68 UK Stereo with Claudia Cardinale in the gatefold. I have to say the Japanese is the better out of the two. I agree with you about the stereo version. I borrowed an original UK Mono and I found everything too upfront. Too aggressive almost. Then again I am used to the stereo. I consider it a relax in your armchair kind of album. Some people prefer the OG UK Mono & Stereo to the US versions. Different presentation I assume. Lot of good pressings with this record.
OMFG
I was stuck in 1966 but now I'm stuck in 1962.
Out of my OG, VMP and MoFi, I like the MoFi better
I didn't like the mono, it is a bit too grating, and cramped. Going to try the Mofi
I have the 2019 Italian Reissue from the De Agostini publication. Terrible pressing, at least mine is (i see good reviews on the internet) totally distorted
So your comparing fresh peas to frozen?
Nothing frozen here ✌🏼
What hat is that?
It’s from Goorin Brothers San Francisco
@@mazzysmusic Right on👍 thank you.
I've always been an "original" guy and have original 360 mono and stereo copies of this that are close to near mint. I guess I just don't buy reissues or Original Master Recordings. But has anyone noticed that the pictures on the reissues are somewhat "out of focus"? Drives me nuts and I may sound anal. I was all ready to buy a used OMR copy of "Ziggy Stardust" but the cover picture was so out of focus that I changed my mind. Chastise me please if you think I'm way out of line here. By the way, I think the live versions of some of these songs on LIve 1966 are better than the Blonde On Blonde versions. Especially "4th Time Around". From below, I think it should be "jibe"...
..."didn't do psychedelics"??? The guy that wrote Mr. Tambourine Man? ...and said mushrooms weren't a real drug because everyone should have their mind warped every now and then? Are you sure you know what psychedelics are?
So, it's not the music stupid? Me and Michael 45 are confused.
If you watched, then you would know that yes, the music comes first. When it’s your very favorite food, it’s nice to taste it prepared in different ways by different chefs occasionally.
What the songs say is the point of it. The words are the reason for the record. I love my hi fi and the sound quality is a good topic but how about talking about the lyrics A LITTLE Sheesh man..
Yeah that’s a conversation I’ve made occasionally. But not what this particular video is about.
first view
Planet Waves #1
Blasphemy..
✌🏼🎸🤷🏻♂️
I thought you had a pair of JBL vintage 1oo,s Mazz? kool VID Man. i gotta get a copy SOON lolol, was leaning toward the vmp, . Peace Out!!!
I sold the vintage jbls two years ago when dismantled my upstairs surround rig. Those rears are now my downstairs mains
@@mazzysmusic Two years! Damn, how fast it goes by☯️ doesn’t seem to be ☀️⚡️