What is on the tape should be what's important not being grabbed. I have the original and the original MFSL. I had it when it came out in 1976 on 8 track. I was 10 years old. A lot of time has passed since then. I have issues with the current philosophy of MFSL. Good business is not built on deceit. I'm sitting on 8 One Steps I will never listen to again. The one exception is The Nightfly. It is a 3M digital recording. That is fantastic. Good review.
Sounds like we are in the same boat. I have a dozen One Steps and three I truly like, the Mingus, The Nightfly and maybe Fragile. I can't be bothered to go through the hoops for the settlement offered. They are curiosities, nothing more. I was careful not to let that affect my judgement of the HC One Step. I'm so glad that I had the good sense to cancel it and hear it elsewhere. Thanks for watching and for your thoughts on the matter.
Excellent video as usual, thank you. I picked up a Japanese original pressing only last week on a holiday in Japan in excellent condition which sounds fantastic to my ears.
Yes, completely agree with your thoughts. There were 3 Japan pressings all by Warner - Pioneer pressing plant. These are the best sounding Hotel other than the DCC / Steve Hoffman issue. Sonically better than the new MOFI but does not have the dynamics the MOFI does.
@@mcgjohn22 Thanks for the comparison. When you also consider it only cost me £13 / $16 then I’ve got great bang for the buck. Record shopping over there has spoiled me, I could have bought way, way more if it wasn’t for luggage restrictions….oh, and my wife wouldn’t have been too chuffed either.😉
@@salimadam104 I have the exact same issue. I finally checked some and shipped the rest back to myself. I get just like a kid in the candy store when I am there. If you like Steely Dan, the Nippon Phonogram pressings are only outdone by the new AP 45 UHQR releases. But take a pass on the Victor Music Japan Steely Dan, very quiet pressings but highly compressed.
I did want to comment on one thing. No one can really know how a system sounds in its unique environment. The room can have a profound impact on the impression of the sound of a record, no matter how good a system is. That is why I find that in this case, providing the files, eliminates the variables of room interactions and indeed my own hearing acuity. I can only give subjective statements on what I heard. You have the opportunity to listen to the files in your own environment and make your own judgement. Although I had a clear preference at the session and it holds when listening to the files on my own system, I am careful not to make any absolute declarations of superiority. This is all dependent on the listener in their own environment. This should be a fun and interesting take on things. All opinions are valid and welcome.
Great review Scot. Thanks for posting the files. I’m very happy with how my 1S sounds on my system. I’m actually quite blown away by subtleties I never heard vs my US OG (and even lesser Italian pressing). You’ve piqued my interest in the DCC pressing which I really enjoyed in the clip. Although soundstage is not as wide (as the 1S) it sounded very organic. But the attack on the cymbals and the guitar strings is astounding on the 1S IMO. I guess it comes down to taste (and mood). Nice job. 👍🏻
Thank you for your comment! I do prefer the DCC no question, yet there are many like you who are finding aspects about the One Step that they admire and enjoy. There is no right or wrong, and I'm glad there's a version for every taste. I hear the things you are mentioning, and can appreciate that, yet for me the overall effect was not as natural in the top end and vocals. I found more to enjoy overall in the DCC. I do thank you for taking time to watch and listen to the files. It's certainly interesting how different engineers can take this in one direction or another.
There’s no way I could afford the DCC on vinyl (although I do own the CD version). I have a clean original MFSL copy…would you recommend to get the One Step? I value your input.
Well, I honestly think you are set for this album. You have the DCC CD which from all reports is superb, and that original MFSL is a nice clean good sounding pressing. Even I would like the DCC vinyl after this comparison, but there's no way I'll pay what they want for it. The One Step may be an option but I would listen very carefully to the files I provided in the description box. You'll immediately know if the MOFI One Step sound is for you. To me it's too unnatural in the highs, and would probably be fatiguing in the long run. The files through your system really hold the answer for you.
I think that all depends on what the album means to you. You might prefer the One Step, I did from the sound files posted. But if you only listen to this album once or twice a year you might just hold off. If it's one of your favourite albums, it makes more sense to get the One Step while it's here
You've got a good point there. I have some favorites where I HAVE to have the latest pressing though I may be happy with others. Some will love the big crisp sound of the One Step. Fortunately FOMO has dies down and there's time to try and hear it somewhere. If not then you have the files right here!
I'll revisit them all for a video and see how they sound on my latest system. I know my favorites are Abraxas, Nightfly, Ah Um, Monks Dream and possibly Fragile
Hey Scott, nice review and many of us without a DCC appreciate the files to make the comparison. I certainly can see why some might find the HC One-Step a bit “bright” or “clinical”. However, as a drummer, when I can hear the stick hit and resonance of it in a recording, it is the height of accuracy. And that’s what I expect of a high resolution audiophile effort. When the richness of a pressing shields or blocks that from coming out, it’s disappointing. When I know songs as well as I do these and have performed them, I know what to expect and when I can’t hear it or feel it, I want to turn it off. So the good news is there is a pressing for varying tastes and budgets. The One-Step fits right in my wheel house. Thanks my friend…
Hi David, Thank you for checking out the video and for your thoughts on this. It's true, everyone has their own tastes and priorities, and as a musician, your observations make sense. These are things you want to hear and are important to you. Obviously the One Step has won over many. As you well know, there is no right or wrong, and subjective reviews such as we do are merely a guidepost. As people get to know our priorities and tastes they can feel confident if our findings align with their own. It's no secret I value a warm side of neutral, lush sound, in fact my own system is purposely voiced that way. As you heard in the sample files, the DCC would fit my tastes. In the end, I'm glad there are options, and with the price of the DCC, the arrival of the One Step will make many people happy. Due to all this activity around Hotel California, and not having any copy myself, I'm waiting for the 2015 digital cut by Bernie Grundman to arrive today. No one's talking about it, so maybe there's a good reason lol, but I will let you know about that! Thanks for your comment and take care.
@@ThePressingMatters Hi Scott. As always, totally respect your insight and care towards these topics! By the way, if the 2015 BG cut is the same BG in the 2018 Legacy Box, which I covered in my shootout, it may be closer to your liking (not as bright) as the One-Step, but I think you may find it a bit dull vs the DCC. Will be interesting to hear your impressions.
@@SafeAndSoundTXAudioExcursion Well David, it came today and it's not the BG, it's actually the 2017 cut by Chris Bellman lol! Seems everyone got a stab at this at one time or another. I cleaned it up and played it on my system today. Unfortunately the other pressings I heard are not mine so I had no direct reference. Maybe I wasn't in the mood (just getting over Covid) or maybe a little burned out on it, but it stuck me as a competent job, not bright at all, nice bass, but lacking any real dynamic push. Vocals sounded a bit hollow. If this is what people were used to, I could see them preferring any of the other pressings including the One Step. I will get the chance to hear it against the DCC and One Step in a few weeks. Until then take it with a grain of salt! Sometimes it seems the stars must align for everything to sound right!
Wow, you cant un-hear the mandolin. The DCC smokes the others but defiantly would rather have the OG than the 1step. Thanks for the down loads and the review this has been one of my favorites and most rewarding.
Great, I'm glad you got a good listen to the files and got some idea of what we heard. The DCC was easily on top. I'd have to spend more time with the One Step but I think Oswaldo places it last. I don't like to rank these things but when a winner emerges so strongly, I have to crown it king!
...@@ThePressingMatters ...I would be surprised if the DCC Gold CD isn’t even better than their vinyl pressing. They usually are. Steve Hoffmann brilliantly mastered many classic albums for DCC. I like DCC’s CDs much better than their records. Their records did not have to fight their way through Kevin Gray’s opaque, airless, low-rez, modern transistor cutting system.
@@lucullus6127 I've heard great things about the DCC CD's that Steve did and I too wouldn't be surprised if some of them sound better than the vinyl. I think this one just worked for whatever reason and despite the odds, sounds really beautiful. Cant say that about some other DCC records where it wasn't difficult to find a superior version. Good point about Kevin Gray's system at this time. Definitely could tip things in favor of the digital versions. He seems to be working with a great set up now and producing consistently good masterings.
@lucullus6127 and @thepressingmatters when did Kevin Gray have a low res mastering chain? Just in the 90s or through the entire life of Acoustech. I know his chain has improved since Cohearant but I have many lps cut @ATM that sound amazing but most were cut there in the 2000s. I know he used Future Disc at one time as well but to my knowledge that was a great cutting facility as well.
@@michaelmoon2342 Hi Micheal, I didn't mean to imply his mastering chain was ever low resolution. He still produced mostly superb cuts wherever he was working. It's very apparent to me that his new setup improves on the older ones. The DCC CDs are renown for their natural qualities and many are considered definitive. I think a few might surpass their vinyl counterpart in some ways.
good review. would agree; the DCC is the best sounding of any of the releases. Back in the day, wish I would have bought a dozen spares for back up. Even with the MOFI Digital transfer issue, I went ahead and bought the MOFI set out of plain curiosity. For those out there who are looking for a new copy of "Hotel CA", take a pass on the 45 RPM MOFI. Its got great dynamics, but very 2-D sounding sonically, eq'ed to death; not very natural sounding. The Japan pressings are much better, they sound much more like a tape copy than the MOFI does. The DCC is the best of any release sonically. If the DCC is out of reach money wise, look for a Japan pressing. There were tons and tons of these pressed in Japan and Japanese record collectors are much more careful with their vinyl than 99% of the US record collectors, so not too tough to find a really clean pristine copy. Hotel is a pretty easy title to find in Japan and they do not go for a lot of money if a person is on a tight budget. The only drawback is shipping. The Japan pressings surpasses all 6 US pressings I have including the 1st US press. The DCC issue is the only pressing that surpasses the Japan pressings. For those interested in sonic qualities ranking; the DCC is 1st, 1st Japan press is 2nd, 2nd and 3rd Japan press would be 3rd and MOFI 45 would be a distant 4th.
Oh one other thing to consider. I have both the DCC lp and the gold cd. They are both close in tonality. IMO the gold cd is even better..*shock and awe* ha...than the lp. Steve worked pretty hard to do that with the digital and analogue versions of the DCC stuff he did. Point being, if you do have a good digital front, you might buy one of the DCC gold cd's of Hotel as a stopgap. Now wouldnt that make an interesing sample to add to the list ;)
Hi John! I have heard some of the DCC CD's and I can absolutely imagine some of them overtaking the LP in SQ. I've been thinking about getting a disc player back in the system for a while, but now there's a great turntable upgrade that's pretty hard to resist! I'll have more details soon! Hey those DCC Gold CDs are not cheap!
I couldn't agree more. I have a resolving all tube system and found the One Step fatiguing to listen to. I dont know if it is the hyper detail, but it is just too bright to my ears. Nice to see you have the Modwright 9.0. I love mine. It replaced a Graham Slee ERA Gold V that punched way above its weight.
Wow, what a coincidence! 6 hours before watching this I ordered the DCC from discogs. 🤞Never knew it existed until a few weeks ago. I have the DCC gold CD. Is more pleasurable to listen to vs the 192 khz and the 40th anniversary 96 khz. As a long time mifi fan since the mid 80's (I own many early mifi reissues including the Beatles box set when it first came out.) I have to say that yes I welcome the new transparency. But I cannot get past making a vinyl version of a digital copy, no matter how much oversampling is done. I'm not against making a digital master. But keep it digital. Analog vinyl should only be made from analog masters. I am totally against the concept of the One Steps. Also, raise your hand if you like all the trips to the turntable to play an entire 45 rpm album. Saps the enjoyment out of the experience IMO
Thank you, and you make a good point that seems obvious, namely why press digital to vinyl. Something I've tried to be open minded about but then add 45 rpm 4 sides and it seems a bit silly doesn't it. I've got my eye on a digital set up in the future, just not sure exactly what form it might take. Of course I'll have both analog and digital.
Please don't dismiss Digital to vinyl. Try listening to a Raw native DSD file. Then listen to it when mastered to vinyl. Something weird happens and I'd say most would choose the vinyl.
@@Gez492 Oh, I don't dismiss it. I own many records that were either digital recordings to begin with or from digital transfers of analog tapes. And there are many instances where where this is employed, the mastering to vinyl still sounds better than the sacd or file. I think what I was getting at is with the One Steps, I don't think the process or results justify the cost. Digital to vinyl is a reality, and some companies do it well at a fair price. Even MOFI on their regular releases.
Very good review!! I wish all vinyl LP reviews provided the sound description AND the digital files to back up the subjective impressions. The only version of the album I have is the 80's MSFL which I think sounds quite good. However, just a quick review of the digital files on my garbage computer speakers revels a noticeable difference between the DCC and the others (for the better), I'm curious to listen to the difference on my main system. I'm not religious as to format (digital or analog LP), I think both formats have their place and can sound very good depending on the details of the recording source and mastering. I have archived most of my vinyl recordings to digital and find it interesting to try and correlate what I'm hearing to the digital files (waveforms and spectrum). One thing that always stands out is turntable/tonearm/cartridge noise and resonance. I can clearly see Oswaldo's setup is quite good, there's very little tonearm/cartridge resonance which always manifests in the 5-15hz range (assuming he didn't do any post filtering in the digital domain). Again a huge thanks to you and Oswaldo for the effort and making this available to your audience.
Hi Daniel, I feel very confident with the work Oswaldo does with these files. Careful level matched and no touch ups for any reason. The front end cost more than a house down payment, but that aside it's very accurate and engaging. I'm glad you were able to spot the differences so easily. You can hear that the original MFSL acquired itself quite well. I'd put it behind the DCC but quite a beautiful listen. I enjoyed it very much when I played the files here at my place. If Oswaldo is reading this, I'm sure he'll be very pleased that this feature of our collaborations is important to the listener. We plan to do many more in the future.
Hi Scott, many thanks for the interesting comparison. I always thought that my DCC cannot possibly be bettered. As to the Mob Fid, I am not entrusting any of my record budget to that company any longer. Lying and overcharging for years for what is basically a digital CD mastering cut on vinyl. Here in Europe 200 EUR for a digital one-step LP is simply a ripoff and not likely to at least holding its value going forward. And, as you say, it does not even sound all that great. Glad that I am out of the Mob Fid bubble while other labels are working harder and still deliver much greater value for money.
Hi Thomas, Thank you for watching and commenting. I feel that in this case the superiority of the DCC is undeniable. Although I still will take a listen to a MOFI if the opportunity presents itself, as it did here, my days of buying them ended a while ago, particularly the One Steps. There are still those that are interested, so if I can hear the latest, I'll report on it for them. I can assure you, you're not missing anything in this case.
Thanks for the info Scott. I ordered the One Step. Yes it was played to death and radio was the main source for listening to music in my younger days 😂 time flies. I am just curious, how does the One Step compare to the two other non-DCC releases and out those three which one would you have chosen?
Hi Brian, I really would have to hear the records in my own system, especially since you've been following me for some time and know my system and taste. For me, from what I heard I'd say the only one that I would break down and buy is the DCC. I think the One Step would just sit in my shelf. I'm not saying it would come in last in my own shootout, but I know how I react to that kind of sound and I'd find a reason to take it off. I do hope you love it - many do, and it can be exciting at first blush. Please let me know once you've lived with it for a little while.
Hi Derek, I agree, I like hearing things with other people, different systems, and I love providing audio files to make things even clearer. I'll be doing more like this soon
I sold both of my DCC Eagles LP's about 15 years ago, H.C. and Greatest Hits, both with the same low number #007 I thought they sounded a bit too soft, mellow overall.
They could on many systems, in fact I didn't rate the Doors too highly last time I did a shootout. On this particular system, not my own, it just sounded right. Lush for sure but tonally right. This is why I have resisted selling off copies when I do a shootout. System changes and results change. Which goes to point out, it's all system and room dependent, as well as our own tastes. These files should help people get a handle on the differences at the least.
@@ThePressingMatters Good point. I think the drum sound is where I have issue, specifically the kick drum and toms, for some reason they sound dull compared to the rest of the kit. I listened to that record so much when it came out I really was worn out I guess so the DCC didn't make me enjoy the record any more than a Lee Hulko pressing so I sold them for good money.
@@67Pepper I can understand that. I've done it too, and sometimes regretted it later. You should check out the new link I just posted to the video comparison at the top of the description box and comments.
Hi Stephen, Actually it says Steve Hoffman on the label and SH/KG in the deadwax. I imagine they both worked on the sound and Kevin ran the lathe? I corrected this in the description.
Hey Scott, thanks for the review! Reviews are very helpful to the buyer when backed up with evidence. I applaud you and Oswaldo for your efforts. These One Steps are interesting arent they. Can either be euphoric or headscratchingly frustrating. They detail things out so much (and Im still not sure how they accomplish this magic simply through mastering) that the naked standing before us can reveal something marvelous or we see all the sags and bags of the tape lol. At their best, the One Steps can reveal an almost 3D type atmosphere and at the worst bring out the faults of what once was covered up by mastering "tricks". Sometimes these tricks are needed. I think we almost have to take a different approach in listening when it comes to these. Our brains have to adjust some to the detail. And sometimes the detail and clarity kills the frog. Or ends up being such a direct pointed sound of each individual instruments that it just goes through our foreheads. My conclusion is that it is very select as to what albums and recordings will hit that sweet spot of clarity yet tonally pleasing with these One Steps. I came to the same conclusion with these samples. And pretty much the same conclusion towards the One Step. Though I would place the One Step in sort of a category of its own. There is some detail with Randy's bass for instance that is pretty damn amazing. Really nice bass detail in which you can hear each note. As a musician, I can appreciate this detail. And that is another point. How we listen and with what experiences we come into the listening with. Will a musician listen a bit different than a person who is strictly a music lover. Neither is wrong, just influenced differently. I have all the pressings you mention and use in your review except for the UHQR. I will most likely get it eventually because I will probably enjoy it for the detail if not for the musical sound and tone. Weird reason to have it perhaps, but Im wanting to see if I can tweak it also to take some of that edge off with a parametric equalizer. Hey, I can always sell it later. Thanks so much again for you and your friends efforts in this! Please please do more of these with sample comparisons! 🙏🏻 John
Hi John, This was a very interesting comment in that it comes from a musician. The bass detail certainly was impressive, and the low end in general has a nice solid feel to it, as a musician you could probably look past a few things in favor of others. I think you are right though, the detail these One Steps are something that maybe one has to adjust to. Initially I find it fatiguing and as you say, often revealing too much on an average recording. I hear that often with the many One Steps I have. Really enjoyed your take on things. Thanks!
I have all the versions you are comparing except the original MoFi and had already listened critically to the vinyl on my system at home. Well, I did listen critically to the DCC - I got lost in it. You nailed it on what I heard as well! I meant to cancel the HC One Step (the debut was great but One Of these Nights One Step sounded terrible) but I didn’t call a week before when I didn’t know it was coming out as it was after hours that I tried to call so it ended up on my doorstep. The One Step is over-exaggerated. The One Step has MoFi’s typical too much detail audio on steroids sheen. The mid range is hollow, vocals closed in, cymbals have no splash. The top end is harsh and the low end is too prominent. Don’s minor high hat simple tap tap tap is way high in the mix. The guitars bite is bright and sounds like an overdrive pedal. Tonality top to bottom is way off. The DCC is incredible.- well balanced, emotional, the midrange lush, strings, guitars, harmonies. The guitars and bass bite when appropriate. Henley’s voice is warm and you can hear the air around it. When The Last Resort goes to the end - “and you can hear them talk on sunday morning” …all the other copies break up as the song crescendos but the DCC holds together completely - is so emotional and perfect sounding. Spend the money on the DCC if you really love Hotel California. Perfect review and yes the Mofi One Step might sound engaging on a recessed system where it’s overly forward presentation sounds more balanced Some say the DCC is recessed - they certainly are not hearing what I am.
Hi, Yup forgetting to cancel can be hazardous! Same scenario happened to me with Elvis In Memphis. I was sure I cancelled it and the day I called it was already en route. So I kept it (of course I was going to open it!) While it wasn't the disaster of Hotel California, I ended up preferring other copies, and now have an expensive bookend. It really boggles my mind how anyone could say this One Step of Hotel California sounds good nevermind "The Best One Step of all Time!" It's positively painful to listen to and honestly I couldn't wait to take it off. Whatever redeeming qualities can't get past that hollowed out, etched and fatiguing sound. The DCC is like liquid gold. Thanks for sharing your views here, I hope others will take them into account as well before they end up getting saddled with this unappealing take on Hotel California.
The Steely Dan Analog Productions first two UHQRs were fabulous The Pretzel Logic UHQR is dreadful just like the HC One Step Praying othe Dan UHQR and Atlantic AP 45s are back to stellar work from Acoustic Sounds
@@audiotomb Thank you for subscribing! With Steely Dan, I have only preordered Aja and Gaucho. I've been watching the discussion on the first three releases from the sidelines, and understand the first two were well received, yet Pretzel Logic was generally not. I am hoping whatever happened there was an exception and the next two will be up to the standard of the best of the UHQR Series. I will definitely be doing a through listen through the best of the existing Aja contenders and report back with my findings in a video presentation. Looking forward to seeing your comments on future videos. Your perspective is very much appreciated.
Interesting, In my first take of the video that's exactly how I described it - scooped out in the mids. I even made a hand sign indicating it. But it didn't make it to the final take. What do you think the reasoning behind doing this might be? To make it immediately attention getting? To stand out on lower resolution systems. I can't imagine there is a musical reason for doing so. Not that it's anything new for MOFI / MFSL
@@ThePressingMatters I really don't know why they would make that choice. Maybe their monitoring system is mid-heavy? It does give the illusion of more powerful bass and extra detail but it's just that, an illusion. I bought the one step and thought it sounded good but in the comparison the DCC is better balanced. I couldn't justify the DCC for this album regardless. I use either a 300B amp or MC275 into Klipsch La Scalas btw.
Have to agree about the first pressing - mine was very noisy and nothing to write home about sonically. I know the headphone community loves this album in digital form though
@@ThePressingMatters According to Reddit, the titular track is commonly used to demo headphones at conventions as the track is well known and liked. Apparently the Hoffman DCC CD is one of the best regarded CDs too as far as I can tell.
Took a listen to the files of the title track through headphones and I have to say its between the DCC and One Step, but they are so different its hard to pick. The old MFSL is easily in 4th place with its somewhat muffled and distant vocal sound at times. The original at 3rd and DCC are very similar but the DCC just adds that bit of increased separation and clarity that it basically becomes an improvement original. Now the One Step seems really worked on, for good and bad. The separation and clarity is extremely good but almost to the point where it rips apart the cohesiveness of the performances and vocals can sound particularly thin at times to boot. Over speakers I again notice a lack of body and bass on the One Step but its still a toss up as to if one prefers clarity over cohesiveness or vice versa. The only one missing here is the Kevin Gray cut. I really wonder how that one compares to the DCC and One Step.
Hi Leon, You described the One Step well here. On this system, it had the qualities you describe. I could see moving the MFSL to 4th, but I really tried to not give an absolute ranking, just that the DCC stood out as my favorite, and the newest One Step had several issues that I didn't care for. I appreciate you taking time to listen to the files and comment!
@@ThePressingMatters Yeah I did this before watching the whole video and I see were are in agreement pretty much. If I was forced I would also rank these 4: old MFSL 3: OG 2: One Step 1: DCC But this makes me really curious about the Kevin Gray cut which should be similar to the DCC Id imagine.
@@leon9021 Do you mean the 2009 KG/ATM? Yeah I'm very curious now too - I wanted it for this but couldn't source one in time. Perhaps I can revisit the two in the future. One other viewer says he has it and it sounds good. Would there be a difference in that the DCC is a tube cut and the ATM is a transistor cut?
@@ThePressingMatters There should be a difference most likely yes, since tubes typically add a bit of distortion and roll off the high end somewhat. But other mastering choices besides that are unknown.
It is interesting that some of us prefer that distortion and roll off. It sounds more natural to me. I have all tubes in my system now too. I did not hear these on my system, only at Ozwaldo's. I have heard the files on my system but not in true hi res. Still the differences were clear though I got a warmer sound overall which helped out the One Step a bit.
Hi Mike! Actually I did pick up a 2017? Grundman cut after this video came out. I've heard it on my system but have yet to get to compare to the DCC and One Step at Oswaldo's place. I will bring it next time and report back.
@@ThePressingMatters sweeeet. Yeah the vinyl is really quiet and sounds super warm with tight bass and non fatiguing highs. For $20 it’s a steal. I’m most excited for the long run to come out. Mofi should work on getting these out within 3 years of announcing. I’m sorry but it doesnt take that long to master and press an album. Thanks for these shootouts. I love your channel
I enjoyed it too in isolation. Curious how it compares with the others. A shorter wait time is more effective. Thank you for watching and commenting! Great to have you here.
Good review, my system is very transparent, I've stopped buying any MFSL and UHQR's as I buy 100% Tone Poets, 90% Classics, 50% AS Craft series and 50% new OJC this means I can concentrate on collecting minty UK 1st pressings and in some cases 1st US pressings from the various pressing plants. A friend still buys all these One Steps and UHQR's which we compare with my 1st pressings. We agreed with your conclusions re Hotel California when comparing with 1st UK pressings. Agree re Abraxas as I have the One Step, ARS pressing and too many UK and US 1st pressings, the ARS sounds better than the One Step to me on my system BUT there are a variety of 1 st pressings which equal or surpass it. The issue as always is getting a minty copy
I do personally have the ARS, purchased new and it's my favorite of what I have, but I've never heard it against the One Step. Now that I have access to a copy, I will do that comparison myself. If what you experienced is true for me too, I'll be a happy camper, and not lust for a One Step Abraxas lol. I too have stopped with the One Steps and most of the UHQR and Small Batch releases. I feel better for it and I can usually hear them at my friends if I really need to. $38-$60 is more my speed! Thanks for sharing your experience with Hotel California UHQR vs other pressings. It's pretty obvious when you compare closely there's a sonic issue.
What everyone seems to forget getting minty originals is very difficult even when they look perfect as you've no idea on what they've been played hence they frequently end up costing more than one steps or UHQR's. The ARS was more consistent than the one step but lacked the "attack" and vibrancy of the best OG@@ThePressingMatters
@@ergloo6660 That's true and why I rarely enjoy hunting used vinyl anymore. I'm just too picky and will only end up disappointed. In some cases a UHQR is very appealing! Loved the Marley ones recently. Not that originals are that hard to find but that was a special FOMO inducing case lol. I was on that phone so fast!
I have the ARS as well and to be honest I never bothered to compare it against the MOFI One-Step and this is something I should remedy right away. Incidentally another “sleeper” in the race for the best Santana Abraxas is one from the often maligned reissue label, Simply Vinyl. Yup. You've heard right. In fact, this *may be* my favorite of the bunch! There is only one small issue with it: the channels are reversed! (Lol) But that’s an easy fix as one can simple reverse the cables at the back of the turntable and just like that, poof! Problem fixed. So Scott, whenever you want we can do the Great Santana-Abraxas Shootout!!! 😊
DCC is the one company you can count on to be as clean as you can get. Expect to pony up for the privilege as this is the true definition of hifi pressings. The others pale in comparison. The Toshiba EMIs are worth your money as well, particularly for Dark Side of the Moon. If DCC had a version of that, I haven’t seen it, much less heard it.
Hi Mark, No they didn't do that title, but I do happen to have a Toshiba EMI of Dark Side of the Moon among many others. It really is special. As far a DCC I have several, and only had one disappointment, and that was mainly due to the source, which was a stereo tape of Surrealistic Pillow. I preferred the MOFI mono in that one case.
@@ThePressingMatters, I have more than one pressing of the Toshiba EMI Dark Side. I find it superior to even the Original UHQR of Dark Side. If DCC did do that title, I’d have to get it!
Interesting take. I have a digital rip of this and the DCC. I’ve had the DCC for a while and the One Step is new for me. Immediately I felt like something was off when I began listening. It seems to have a smiley face EQ applied. Scooped in the mids. Especially the title track. The vocals are so thin and have zero body. I’m not going to say I hate it or it’s awful, just an interesting approach the mastering. It couldn’t sound more different from the DCC
Agree. It amazes me that some found it to be the best One Step yet! The most unnatural approach to mastering this record. Glad you have the DCC. I wish I had my own copy That one is so beautiful, it's really night and day difference.
@@ThePressingMatters it’s really crazy how different they sound. It’s like one has a “V” shaped EQ and the other has an inverted “V” shaped EQ. I’m happy to have both. But I think the DCC will be my reference while the One Step will be a fun listen here and there. Oh and I’m one that really couldn’t care less about a digital step in the chain (if done with care) as long as it sounds good. And to clarify, i do not own physical copies of either. Both are digital rips from a very reputable and well known source.
@@ThePressingMatters Interestingly enough, I feel like the title track is the worst offender in the One Step. As the album goes on it feels like the mastering choice isn’t totally bonkers. 🤷🏻♂️
@@trey81373 I'll have to give it another listen at some point because I did focus on the first three songs and yes, Hotel California was the least attractive in this regard.
Really enjoyed this evaluation Scott. I need to revisit my original MoFi of this release and compare it to the new One-Step now. Mine arrived with the dreaded seam splits, so I’m already not happy with the release (and MoFi). Sadly I think that DCC might evade my grasps. 😬
Hi Chance, You may prefer the first MFSL, but a different systems can portray these differently. Seems quite a split in opinion, but I think it's undeniable the One Step is thin and tonally off on top. You might hear it when you compare. Yeah the DCC is my grail. Remember I said I didn't have a grail? Well I do now!
Loved your comparison Scott I passed on the One step I was so tempted I have the 2009 Kevin Gray cut and I am happy with it I was told it was the same as the DCC cut by Steve Hoffman the One Step I’m definitely grabbing is Long Run can’t wait for that one awesome review.
Thank you! I've heard good things about that 2009, and I tried to get it for this video, but I thought it was a different mastering from the DCC. I'll have to research, but are you saying it's the same plates as the Hoffman? I believe they are different. Going to check now.
@@ThePressingMatters a friend of mine told me I believe they close because they both mastered a lot of albums together in the past let me know your finding Scott I couldn’t find any info.
I just checked and they are indeed two different masterings. The DCC credits both Steve and Kevin, but the 2009 is Kevin at ATM. So while they could sound similar, they are not the same. DCC is a tube mastering and the ATM is not. Hope that helps.
@@ThePressingMatters thanks good to know I see why the DCC is so pricey i definitely would love to hear that pressing one day. My Kevin Gray will do for now I love the sonics on it .
Scott … I mean this with sincerity. Your review and approach should be the template for which all reviews should be created. At no point did I feel you were trying to sell, rather you were getting right down to the heart of the matter
I really appreciate your comment. I make it a point to not go into these with any bias or motive - and just plain tell you what I heard. Some people get all up in arms to defend their favorite! It's not about that for me, it's about sharing a journey, in this case to find the pressing that speaks to me. I'm glad you enjoy this approach and I'm grateful to have you as a viewer.
@@ThePressingMatters It works :) I do not know how accurate was the ripping in terms of level matching, but what we can hear on the video is insane!! :) The DCC really is in another league and the new One Step is just horrible...
@@Domonkos.SiegfriedI can tell you that it was very accurate to what we heard in the room. I thought the video was shocking as it easily revealed the general character of each pressing. Often it's easier for me to hear these things in a quick AB setting and these videos really do that well. Even if the levels were not perfect, the eq differences were plainly obvious. I know one viewer tried giving the One Step a small boost, and found it still had the same character overall.
@@ThePressingMatters I absolutely agree, the difference between the DCC and the MoFi One Step is perfectly noticeable, even if the levels would have not been matched at 100%. I have also downloaded the files 3 weeks ago, played on my main system, and my impression was the same. Albeit the difference was not as striking as on the video made by Oswaldo. I felt I had to change a little bit the volume on the preamp when playing back those 4 tracks successively, but my ears were maybe playing a trick at me. Side note: When analysing those 4 track with the ReplayGain tool embedded into Foobar, the result showed various gain values from +3,76 to + 5,09 dB, depending on the track. I'm unsure if this tool is accurate, but what I'm sure about is that such difference (a track at +3,76 vs. a track at +5,09 dB) shall be very much noticeable.
@Domonkos.Siegfried I'm so glad you took advantage of using the files as well as the video. They are the best way to judge in your own system under the best conditions.
Thank you for the article and for the files. Its stimulates a great deal of intelligent discussion, all valid and interesting. Having listened again through my In Ears and Dragonfly red Headphone DAC. A word of caution on the "Mandolin" reference as a way of describing the DCC being a better recording. It may sound better to you both but bear in mind the intro as I understood it, was unusual in that it was largely played with a 12 string acoustic, fitted with an electric pick up and further, a capo was used right up on the 7th fret, I am not surprised its tonality resembled a mandolin. So who's to say then, what sound Don Felder had in his mind. I have an all tube HiFi system which I regard as mid high to high end a much upgraded LP12 Arm & MC Cartridge which is a shame because I don't have a really great example of the Album to test. The DCC being cost prohibitive and the MOFI sold out but listening to the rips. I do overall prefer the tonal balance of the DCC, its warmer more even tempered. The MOFI has more punch and slightly better insight into the lead guitar playing but as you say, a tad over emphasis on the opening guitar intro although I didn't get as offended by it, as I remembered where he was playing on the fret board. I am going to try and get a hold of the MOFI One Step as I did enjoy that difference and if I'm lucky enough to get the DCC at a decent price I will get that too.
Hi Gerald, Thank you for your insight into the specifics of guitar and other performance concerns. That sheds a bit more light on things. Still when faced with a choice of what to listen to for this album, I personally would opt for the DCC. It it was under $60 bucks I might get it. But it will never be, and I don't really feel a strong need to have any version in my collection. I truly am burned out on it.
@ThePressingMatters I agree, I am going to keep an eye for the DCC. Please keep doing what you do, its always interesting to get fellow vinyl fans take on things.
I have a sealed copy of the MFSL & DCC I bought years ago. But also fell out with Eagles for many years. I did get the One-Step, I thought it was amazing . Yes, I have crappy system but did put the grills on my speakers because of brightness.. Great review
I'm really happy with the One-Step, but I only listen to the Eagles in flashback mode. Plus my system sucks, I know....... I cracked open some One-Steps,& UHQRs on a had to know basis. Also, I have a bronze coming
Some will sound even better as your system improves. Though if you think the system doesn't sound that good, you might consider holding off on One Steps and UHQRs and maybe put that money towards upgrading your components. It's not like these records are selling out like they were a few years ago. They'll be there unless severely limited, like the Marley UHQRs. But most One Steps from two years ago are still available at retail. The cost of 10 One Steps could get you a decent upgrade in your system, and everything will sound better. I know it's hard to resist the latest and greatest records, but I started cutting down on expensive vinyl and ended up with a great used amp for about 1200. Just some food for thought
Interesting. I just got my one step. Totally blown away. I love to hear those details. Amazing stuff. Never heard the DCC…so can’t compare. But the one step does sound pretty darn good to me. I compared the files. The DCC is definitely pretty good. It’s sounds tuby soft. Like a great old pressing. The mofi is definitely more exact and square cornered. Interesting stuff. I will definitely keep the DCC in mind. Honestly after I heard the mofi I was blown away but I had no comparison. Both of the files you provided sound pretty good. I could enjoy the DCC and mofi. Sugar cube recordings? Recently I have switched to total DSD recording with sugar cube for playback only. The PCM smears the details ever so slightly.
I think it would in isolation, and in some systems. I know some people are loving it so you're not alone! For me, on this system, the detail on the One Step was too much. There is a point where something can go from nice detail and resolution to becoming fatiguing. I think the One Step was straddling the line there on this system. Hearing the files later through my own system, that aspect bothered me much less. All of these things are so system dependent, so I tried to be mindful not to make any absolute statements, only that the DCC did strike me as perfect in every way. All copies have strengths.
Actually the Sugarcube could have been used to clean up the OG but we had it out of the system to be fair, though personally I think having it in is a great tool for focusing intently on sound.
What is on the tape should be what's important not being grabbed. I have the original and the original MFSL. I had it when it came out in 1976 on 8 track. I was 10 years old. A lot of time has passed since then. I have issues with the current philosophy of MFSL. Good business is not built on deceit. I'm sitting on 8 One Steps I will never listen to again. The one exception is The Nightfly. It is a 3M digital recording. That is fantastic. Good review.
Sounds like we are in the same boat. I have a dozen One Steps and three I truly like, the Mingus, The Nightfly and maybe Fragile. I can't be bothered to go through the hoops for the settlement offered. They are curiosities, nothing more. I was careful not to let that affect my judgement of the HC One Step. I'm so glad that I had the good sense to cancel it and hear it elsewhere. Thanks for watching and for your thoughts on the matter.
Excellent video as usual, thank you. I picked up a Japanese original pressing only last week on a holiday in Japan in excellent condition which sounds fantastic to my ears.
Thanks!
I bet it does. I would have had a field day record shopping in Japan!
Yes, completely agree with your thoughts. There were 3 Japan pressings all by Warner - Pioneer pressing plant. These are the best sounding Hotel other than the DCC / Steve Hoffman issue. Sonically better than the new MOFI but does not have the dynamics the MOFI does.
@@ThePressingMatters quite, quite so. I get into trouble every time I am over there....🙂
@@mcgjohn22 Thanks for the comparison. When you also consider it only cost me £13 / $16 then I’ve got great bang for the buck. Record shopping over there has spoiled me, I could have bought way, way more if it wasn’t for luggage restrictions….oh, and my wife wouldn’t have been too chuffed either.😉
@@salimadam104 I have the exact same issue. I finally checked some and shipped the rest back to myself. I get just like a kid in the candy store when I am there. If you like Steely Dan, the Nippon Phonogram pressings are only outdone by the new AP 45 UHQR releases. But take a pass on the Victor Music Japan Steely Dan, very quiet pressings but highly compressed.
I did want to comment on one thing. No one can really know how a system sounds in its unique environment. The room can have a profound impact on the impression of the sound of a record, no matter how good a system is. That is why I find that in this case, providing the files, eliminates the variables of room interactions and indeed my own hearing acuity. I can only give subjective statements on what I heard. You have the opportunity to listen to the files in your own environment and make your own judgement. Although I had a clear preference at the session and it holds when listening to the files on my own system, I am careful not to make any absolute declarations of superiority. This is all dependent on the listener in their own environment. This should be a fun and interesting take on things. All opinions are valid and welcome.
Great review Scot. Thanks for posting the files. I’m very happy with how my 1S sounds on my system. I’m actually quite blown away by subtleties I never heard vs my US OG (and even lesser Italian pressing). You’ve piqued my interest in the DCC pressing which I really enjoyed in the clip. Although soundstage is not as wide (as the 1S) it sounded very organic. But the attack on the cymbals and the guitar strings is astounding on the 1S IMO. I guess it comes down to taste (and mood). Nice job. 👍🏻
Thank you for your comment! I do prefer the DCC no question, yet there are many like you who are finding aspects about the One Step that they admire and enjoy. There is no right or wrong, and I'm glad there's a version for every taste. I hear the things you are mentioning, and can appreciate that, yet for me the overall effect was not as natural in the top end and vocals. I found more to enjoy overall in the DCC. I do thank you for taking time to watch and listen to the files. It's certainly interesting how different engineers can take this in one direction or another.
There’s no way I could afford the DCC on vinyl (although I do own the CD version). I have a clean original MFSL copy…would you recommend to get the One Step? I value your input.
Well, I honestly think you are set for this album. You have the DCC CD which from all reports is superb, and that original MFSL is a nice clean good sounding pressing. Even I would like the DCC vinyl after this comparison, but there's no way I'll pay what they want for it. The One Step may be an option but I would listen very carefully to the files I provided in the description box. You'll immediately know if the MOFI One Step sound is for you. To me it's too unnatural in the highs, and would probably be fatiguing in the long run. The files through your system really hold the answer for you.
I think that all depends on what the album means to you. You might prefer the One Step, I did from the sound files posted. But if you only listen to this album once or twice a year you might just hold off. If it's one of your favourite albums, it makes more sense to get the One Step while it's here
You've got a good point there. I have some favorites where I HAVE to have the latest pressing though I may be happy with others. Some will love the big crisp sound of the One Step. Fortunately FOMO has dies down and there's time to try and hear it somewhere. If not then you have the files right here!
take a pass on the one step. If you really want another copy seek out a Japan pressing.
Yes, to the OP, the Japanese pressings may in fact be a really great option. I agree with @mcgjohn22's comment. You should pass on the One Step.
Without being provocative, could you please list all the one steps you found problematic that you picked up?
I will do that for you when I give it some thought.
@@ThePressingMatters OK. Just saw a video that did just that.
I'll revisit them all for a video and see how they sound on my latest system. I know my favorites are Abraxas, Nightfly, Ah Um, Monks Dream and possibly Fragile
Great review Scott, definitely passing on the 1-step
Glad it was helpful!
Hey Scott, nice review and many of us without a DCC appreciate the files to make the comparison. I certainly can see why some might find the HC One-Step a bit “bright” or “clinical”. However, as a drummer, when I can hear the stick hit and resonance of it in a recording, it is the height of accuracy. And that’s what I expect of a high resolution audiophile effort. When the richness of a pressing shields or blocks that from coming out, it’s disappointing. When I know songs as well as I do these and have performed them, I know what to expect and when I can’t hear it or feel it, I want to turn it off. So the good news is there is a pressing for varying tastes and budgets. The One-Step fits right in my wheel house. Thanks my friend…
Hi David,
Thank you for checking out the video and for your thoughts on this. It's true, everyone has their own tastes and priorities, and as a musician, your observations make sense. These are things you want to hear and are important to you. Obviously the One Step has won over many. As you well know, there is no right or wrong, and subjective reviews such as we do are merely a guidepost. As people get to know our priorities and tastes they can feel confident if our findings align with their own. It's no secret I value a warm side of neutral, lush sound, in fact my own system is purposely voiced that way. As you heard in the sample files, the DCC would fit my tastes. In the end, I'm glad there are options, and with the price of the DCC, the arrival of the One Step will make many people happy.
Due to all this activity around Hotel California, and not having any copy myself, I'm waiting for the 2015 digital cut by Bernie Grundman to arrive today. No one's talking about it, so maybe there's a good reason lol, but I will let you know about that! Thanks for your comment and take care.
@@ThePressingMatters Hi Scott. As always, totally respect your insight and care towards these topics! By the way, if the 2015 BG cut is the same BG in the 2018 Legacy Box, which I covered in my shootout, it may be closer to your liking (not as bright) as the One-Step, but I think you may find it a bit dull vs the DCC. Will be interesting to hear your impressions.
@@SafeAndSoundTXAudioExcursion Well David, it came today and it's not the BG, it's actually the 2017 cut by Chris Bellman lol! Seems everyone got a stab at this at one time or another. I cleaned it up and played it on my system today. Unfortunately the other pressings I heard are not mine so I had no direct reference. Maybe I wasn't in the mood (just getting over Covid) or maybe a little burned out on it, but it stuck me as a competent job, not bright at all, nice bass, but lacking any real dynamic push. Vocals sounded a bit hollow. If this is what people were used to, I could see them preferring any of the other pressings including the One Step. I will get the chance to hear it against the DCC and One Step in a few weeks. Until then take it with a grain of salt! Sometimes it seems the stars must align for everything to sound right!
Wow, you cant un-hear the mandolin. The DCC smokes the others but defiantly would rather have the OG than the 1step. Thanks for the down loads and the review this has been one of my favorites and most rewarding.
Great, I'm glad you got a good listen to the files and got some idea of what we heard. The DCC was easily on top. I'd have to spend more time with the One Step but I think Oswaldo places it last. I don't like to rank these things but when a winner emerges so strongly, I have to crown it king!
...@@ThePressingMatters ...I would be surprised if the DCC Gold CD isn’t even better than their vinyl pressing.
They usually are. Steve Hoffmann brilliantly mastered many classic albums for DCC. I like DCC’s CDs much better than their records. Their records did not have to fight their way through Kevin Gray’s opaque, airless, low-rez, modern transistor cutting system.
@@lucullus6127 I've heard great things about the DCC CD's that Steve did and I too wouldn't be surprised if some of them sound better than the vinyl. I think this one just worked for whatever reason and despite the odds, sounds really beautiful. Cant say that about some other DCC records where it wasn't difficult to find a superior version. Good point about Kevin Gray's system at this time. Definitely could tip things in favor of the digital versions. He seems to be working with a great set up now and producing consistently good masterings.
@lucullus6127 and @thepressingmatters when did Kevin Gray have a low res mastering chain? Just in the 90s or through the entire life of Acoustech. I know his chain has improved since Cohearant but I have many lps cut @ATM that sound amazing but most were cut there in the 2000s. I know he used Future Disc at one time as well but to my knowledge that was a great cutting facility as well.
@@michaelmoon2342 Hi Micheal,
I didn't mean to imply his mastering chain was ever low resolution. He still produced mostly superb cuts wherever he was working. It's very apparent to me that his new setup improves on the older ones.
The DCC CDs are renown for their natural qualities and many are considered definitive. I think a few might surpass their vinyl counterpart in some ways.
good review. would agree; the DCC is the best sounding of any of the releases. Back in the day, wish I would have bought a dozen spares for back up. Even with the MOFI Digital transfer issue, I went ahead and bought the MOFI set out of plain curiosity. For those out there who are looking for a new copy of "Hotel CA", take a pass on the 45 RPM MOFI. Its got great dynamics, but very 2-D sounding sonically, eq'ed to death; not very natural sounding. The Japan pressings are much better, they sound much more like a tape copy than the MOFI does. The DCC is the best of any release sonically. If the DCC is out of reach money wise, look for a Japan pressing. There were tons and tons of these pressed in Japan and Japanese record collectors are much more careful with their vinyl than 99% of the US record collectors, so not too tough to find a really clean pristine copy. Hotel is a pretty easy title to find in Japan and they do not go for a lot of money if a person is on a tight budget. The only drawback is shipping. The Japan pressings surpasses all 6 US pressings I have including the 1st US press. The DCC issue is the only pressing that surpasses the Japan pressings. For those interested in sonic qualities ranking; the DCC is 1st, 1st Japan press is 2nd, 2nd and 3rd Japan press would be 3rd and MOFI 45 would be a distant 4th.
Oh one other thing to consider. I have both the DCC lp and the gold cd. They are both close in tonality. IMO the gold cd is even better..*shock and awe* ha...than the lp. Steve worked pretty hard to do that with the digital and analogue versions of the DCC stuff he did.
Point being, if you do have a good digital front, you might buy one of the DCC gold cd's of Hotel as a stopgap. Now wouldnt that make an interesing sample to add to the list ;)
Hi John!
I have heard some of the DCC CD's and I can absolutely imagine some of them overtaking the LP in SQ. I've been thinking about getting a disc player back in the system for a while, but now there's a great turntable upgrade that's pretty hard to resist! I'll have more details soon!
Hey those DCC Gold CDs are not cheap!
Thank you for your honest review.
You're welcome! Glad you enjoyed it. I hope you can check out the audio files on your own system.
I couldn't agree more. I have a resolving all tube system and found the One Step fatiguing to listen to. I dont know if it is the hyper detail, but it is just too bright to my ears. Nice to see you have the Modwright 9.0. I love mine. It replaced a Graham Slee ERA Gold V that punched way above its weight.
That Modwright was a great choice for me. I love the flexibility and ease of adjustment. Beautiful tool!
Wow, what a coincidence! 6 hours before watching this I ordered the DCC from discogs. 🤞Never knew it existed until a few weeks ago. I have the DCC gold CD. Is more pleasurable to listen to vs the 192 khz and the 40th anniversary 96 khz.
As a long time mifi fan since the mid 80's (I own many early mifi reissues including the Beatles box set when it first came out.) I have to say that yes I welcome the new transparency. But I cannot get past making a vinyl version of a digital copy, no matter how much oversampling is done. I'm not against making a digital master. But keep it digital. Analog vinyl should only be made from analog masters. I am totally against the concept of the One Steps.
Also, raise your hand if you like all the trips to the turntable to play an entire 45 rpm album. Saps the enjoyment out of the experience IMO
Well you just got the last copy before the inevitable price hike! LOL, just kidding, I don't pretend to be influencing anything with my videos ;-)
@@ThePressingMatters forgot to mention very informative video. Thank you
Thank you, and you make a good point that seems obvious, namely why press digital to vinyl. Something I've tried to be open minded about but then add 45 rpm 4 sides and it seems a bit silly doesn't it. I've got my eye on a digital set up in the future, just not sure exactly what form it might take. Of course I'll have both analog and digital.
Please don't dismiss Digital to vinyl. Try listening to a Raw native DSD file. Then listen to it when mastered to vinyl. Something weird happens and I'd say most would choose the vinyl.
@@Gez492 Oh, I don't dismiss it. I own many records that were either digital recordings to begin with or from digital transfers of analog tapes. And there are many instances where where this is employed, the mastering to vinyl still sounds better than the sacd or file. I think what I was getting at is with the One Steps, I don't think the process or results justify the cost. Digital to vinyl is a reality, and some companies do it well at a fair price. Even MOFI on their regular releases.
Very good review!! I wish all vinyl LP reviews provided the sound description AND the digital files to back up the subjective impressions. The only version of the album I have is the 80's MSFL which I think sounds quite good. However, just a quick review of the digital files on my garbage computer speakers revels a noticeable difference between the DCC and the others (for the better), I'm curious to listen to the difference on my main system. I'm not religious as to format (digital or analog LP), I think both formats have their place and can sound very good depending on the details of the recording source and mastering.
I have archived most of my vinyl recordings to digital and find it interesting to try and correlate what I'm hearing to the digital files (waveforms and spectrum). One thing that always stands out is turntable/tonearm/cartridge noise and resonance. I can clearly see Oswaldo's setup is quite good, there's very little tonearm/cartridge resonance which always manifests in the 5-15hz range (assuming he didn't do any post filtering in the digital domain). Again a huge thanks to you and Oswaldo for the effort and making this available to your audience.
Hi Daniel,
I feel very confident with the work Oswaldo does with these files. Careful level matched and no touch ups for any reason. The front end cost more than a house down payment, but that aside it's very accurate and engaging. I'm glad you were able to spot the differences so easily. You can hear that the original MFSL acquired itself quite well. I'd put it behind the DCC but quite a beautiful listen. I enjoyed it very much when I played the files here at my place.
If Oswaldo is reading this, I'm sure he'll be very pleased that this feature of our collaborations is important to the listener. We plan to do many more in the future.
Thanks for this, enjoyed it very much.
You're welcome! It was a fun time hearing these pressings like this. I hope if you love this album, you've found your favorite. Thanks for watching!
Hi Scott, many thanks for the interesting comparison. I always thought that my DCC cannot possibly be bettered. As to the Mob Fid, I am not entrusting any of my record budget to that company any longer. Lying and overcharging for years for what is basically a digital CD mastering cut on vinyl. Here in Europe 200 EUR for a digital one-step LP is simply a ripoff and not likely to at least holding its value going forward. And, as you say, it does not even sound all that great. Glad that I am out of the Mob Fid bubble while other labels are working harder and still deliver much greater value for money.
Hi Thomas,
Thank you for watching and commenting. I feel that in this case the superiority of the DCC is undeniable. Although I still will take a listen to a MOFI if the opportunity presents itself, as it did here, my days of buying them ended a while ago, particularly the One Steps. There are still those that are interested, so if I can hear the latest, I'll report on it for them. I can assure you, you're not missing anything in this case.
Thanks for the info Scott. I ordered the One Step. Yes it was played to death and radio was the main source for listening to music in my younger days 😂 time flies. I am just curious, how does the One Step compare to the two other non-DCC releases and out those three which one would you have chosen?
Hi Brian,
I really would have to hear the records in my own system, especially since you've been following me for some time and know my system and taste. For me, from what I heard I'd say the only one that I would break down and buy is the DCC. I think the One Step would just sit in my shelf. I'm not saying it would come in last in my own shootout, but I know how I react to that kind of sound and I'd find a reason to take it off. I do hope you love it - many do, and it can be exciting at first blush. Please let me know once you've lived with it for a little while.
Thanks for the review Scott. I enjoyed it.
Hey, Eric!
Glad that you enjoyed it. Thanks so much for letting me know.
Thanks for this review. Hope you get invited to more shootouts and get to report everyone's findings. A consensus is more convincing.
Hi Derek,
I agree, I like hearing things with other people, different systems, and I love providing audio files to make things even clearer. I'll be doing more like this soon
I sold both of my DCC Eagles LP's about 15 years ago, H.C. and Greatest Hits, both with the same low number #007 I thought they sounded a bit too soft, mellow overall.
They could on many systems, in fact I didn't rate the Doors too highly last time I did a shootout. On this particular system, not my own, it just sounded right. Lush for sure but tonally right. This is why I have resisted selling off copies when I do a shootout. System changes and results change. Which goes to point out, it's all system and room dependent, as well as our own tastes. These files should help people get a handle on the differences at the least.
@@ThePressingMatters Good point. I think the drum sound is where I have issue, specifically the kick drum and toms, for some reason they sound dull compared to the rest of the kit. I listened to that record so much when it came out I really was worn out I guess so the DCC didn't make me enjoy the record any more than a Lee Hulko pressing so I sold them for good money.
@@67Pepper I can understand that. I've done it too, and sometimes regretted it later. You should check out the new link I just posted to the video comparison at the top of the description box and comments.
The DCC lacquer was cut by Kevin Gray.
Hi Stephen,
Actually it says Steve Hoffman on the label and SH/KG in the deadwax. I imagine they both worked on the sound and Kevin ran the lathe? I corrected this in the description.
Hey Scott, thanks for the review! Reviews are very helpful to the buyer when backed up with evidence. I applaud you and Oswaldo for your efforts.
These One Steps are interesting arent they. Can either be euphoric or headscratchingly frustrating. They detail things out so much (and Im still not sure how they accomplish this magic simply through mastering) that the naked standing before us can reveal something marvelous or we see all the sags and bags of the tape lol. At their best, the One Steps can reveal an almost 3D type atmosphere and at the worst bring out the faults of what once was covered up by mastering "tricks". Sometimes these tricks are needed.
I think we almost have to take a different approach in listening when it comes to these. Our brains have to adjust some to the detail. And sometimes the detail and clarity kills the frog. Or ends up being such a direct pointed sound of each individual instruments that it just goes through our foreheads. My conclusion is that it is very select as to what albums and recordings will hit that sweet spot of clarity yet tonally pleasing with these One Steps.
I came to the same conclusion with these samples. And pretty much the same conclusion towards the One Step. Though I would place the One Step in sort of a category of its own. There is some detail with Randy's bass for instance that is pretty damn amazing. Really nice bass detail in which you can hear each note. As a musician, I can appreciate this detail. And that is another point. How we listen and with what experiences we come into the listening with. Will a musician listen a bit different than a person who is strictly a music lover. Neither is wrong, just influenced differently.
I have all the pressings you mention and use in your review except for the UHQR. I will most likely get it eventually because I will probably enjoy it for the detail if not for the musical sound and tone. Weird reason to have it perhaps, but Im wanting to see if I can tweak it also to take some of that edge off with a parametric equalizer. Hey, I can always sell it later. Thanks so much again for you and your friends efforts in this! Please please do more of these with sample comparisons! 🙏🏻
John
Hi John,
This was a very interesting comment in that it comes from a musician. The bass detail certainly was impressive, and the low end in general has a nice solid feel to it, as a musician you could probably look past a few things in favor of others. I think you are right though, the detail these One Steps are something that maybe one has to adjust to. Initially I find it fatiguing and as you say, often revealing too much on an average recording. I hear that often with the many One Steps I have.
Really enjoyed your take on things. Thanks!
I have all the versions you are comparing except the original MoFi and had already listened critically to the vinyl on my system at home. Well, I did listen critically to the DCC - I got lost in it.
You nailed it on what I heard as well!
I meant to cancel the HC One Step (the debut was great but One Of these Nights One Step sounded terrible) but I didn’t call a week before when I didn’t know it was coming out as it was after hours that I tried to call so it ended up on my doorstep.
The One Step is over-exaggerated. The One Step has MoFi’s typical too much detail audio on steroids sheen. The mid range is hollow, vocals closed in, cymbals have no splash. The top end is harsh and the low end is too prominent. Don’s minor high hat simple tap tap tap is way high in the mix. The guitars bite is bright and sounds like an overdrive pedal. Tonality top to bottom is way off.
The DCC is incredible.- well balanced, emotional, the midrange lush, strings, guitars, harmonies. The guitars and bass bite when appropriate. Henley’s voice is warm and you can hear the air around it. When The Last Resort goes to the end - “and you can hear them talk on sunday morning” …all the other copies break up as the song crescendos but the DCC holds together completely - is so emotional and perfect sounding. Spend the money on the DCC if you really love Hotel California.
Perfect review and yes the Mofi One Step might sound engaging on a recessed system where it’s overly forward presentation sounds more balanced
Some say the DCC is recessed - they certainly are not hearing what I am.
Hi,
Yup forgetting to cancel can be hazardous! Same scenario happened to me with Elvis In Memphis. I was sure I cancelled it and the day I called it was already en route. So I kept it (of course I was going to open it!)
While it wasn't the disaster of Hotel California, I ended up preferring other copies, and now have an expensive bookend.
It really boggles my mind how anyone could say this One Step of Hotel California sounds good nevermind "The Best One Step of all Time!"
It's positively painful to listen to and honestly I couldn't wait to take it off. Whatever redeeming qualities can't get past that hollowed out, etched and fatiguing sound. The DCC is like liquid gold. Thanks for sharing your views here, I hope others will take them into account as well before they end up getting saddled with this unappealing take on Hotel California.
The Steely Dan Analog Productions first two UHQRs were fabulous
The Pretzel Logic UHQR is dreadful just like the HC One Step
Praying othe Dan UHQR and Atlantic AP 45s are back to stellar work from Acoustic Sounds
Can’t like your comments enough
1000x
Subscribed!
@@audiotomb Thank you for subscribing!
With Steely Dan, I have only preordered Aja and Gaucho. I've been watching the discussion on the first three releases from the sidelines, and understand the first two were well received, yet Pretzel Logic was generally not. I am hoping whatever happened there was an exception and the next two will be up to the standard of the best of the UHQR Series. I will definitely be doing a through listen through the best of the existing Aja contenders and report back with my findings in a video presentation. Looking forward to seeing your comments on future videos. Your perspective is very much appreciated.
The new one-step is mid-scooped by comparison, about 150Hz to 1.5KHz and boosted at the very top, 15K-ish. The DCC is more balanced.
Interesting,
In my first take of the video that's exactly how I described it - scooped out in the mids. I even made a hand sign indicating it. But it didn't make it to the final take. What do you think the reasoning behind doing this might be? To make it immediately attention getting? To stand out on lower resolution systems. I can't imagine there is a musical reason for doing so.
Not that it's anything new for MOFI / MFSL
@@ThePressingMatters I really don't know why they would make that choice. Maybe their monitoring system is mid-heavy? It does give the illusion of more powerful bass and extra detail but it's just that, an illusion. I bought the one step and thought it sounded good but in the comparison the DCC is better balanced. I couldn't justify the DCC for this album regardless. I use either a 300B amp or MC275 into Klipsch La Scalas btw.
Awesome system! I can only imagine!
Have to agree about the first pressing - mine was very noisy and nothing to write home about sonically. I know the headphone community loves this album in digital form though
Hi Andrew,
That's interesting re the headphone experience. I wonder why that is?
@@ThePressingMatters According to Reddit, the titular track is commonly used to demo headphones at conventions as the track is well known and liked.
Apparently the Hoffman DCC CD is one of the best regarded CDs too as far as I can tell.
That makes sense. It's very revealing as to sonic differences as the files show.
Took a listen to the files of the title track through headphones and I have to say its between the DCC and One Step, but they are so different its hard to pick. The old MFSL is easily in 4th place with its somewhat muffled and distant vocal sound at times. The original at 3rd and DCC are very similar but the DCC just adds that bit of increased separation and clarity that it basically becomes an improvement original.
Now the One Step seems really worked on, for good and bad. The separation and clarity is extremely good but almost to the point where it rips apart the cohesiveness of the performances and vocals can sound particularly thin at times to boot. Over speakers I again notice a lack of body and bass on the One Step but its still a toss up as to if one prefers clarity over cohesiveness or vice versa.
The only one missing here is the Kevin Gray cut. I really wonder how that one compares to the DCC and One Step.
Hi Leon,
You described the One Step well here. On this system, it had the qualities you describe. I could see moving the MFSL to 4th, but I really tried to not give an absolute ranking, just that the DCC stood out as my favorite, and the newest One Step had several issues that I didn't care for. I appreciate you taking time to listen to the files and comment!
@@ThePressingMatters Yeah I did this before watching the whole video and I see were are in agreement pretty much.
If I was forced I would also rank these
4: old MFSL
3: OG
2: One Step
1: DCC
But this makes me really curious about the Kevin Gray cut which should be similar to the DCC Id imagine.
@@leon9021 Do you mean the 2009 KG/ATM? Yeah I'm very curious now too - I wanted it for this but couldn't source one in time. Perhaps I can revisit the two in the future. One other viewer says he has it and it sounds good. Would there be a difference in that the DCC is a tube cut and the ATM is a transistor cut?
@@ThePressingMatters There should be a difference most likely yes, since tubes typically add a bit of distortion and roll off the high end somewhat. But other mastering choices besides that are unknown.
It is interesting that some of us prefer that distortion and roll off. It sounds more natural to me. I have all tubes in my system now too. I did not hear these on my system, only at Ozwaldo's. I have heard the files on my system but not in true hi res. Still the differences were clear though I got a warmer sound overall which helped out the One Step a bit.
Wish you had the Bernie grundman. I think it sounds amazing and curious how it compares
Hi Mike!
Actually I did pick up a 2017? Grundman cut after this video came out. I've heard it on my system but have yet to get to compare to the DCC and One Step at Oswaldo's place. I will bring it next time and report back.
@@ThePressingMatters sweeeet. Yeah the vinyl is really quiet and sounds super warm with tight bass and non fatiguing highs. For $20 it’s a steal. I’m most excited for the long run to come out. Mofi should work on getting these out within 3 years of announcing. I’m sorry but it doesnt take that long to master and press an album. Thanks for these shootouts. I love your channel
I enjoyed it too in isolation. Curious how it compares with the others.
A shorter wait time is more effective. Thank you for watching and commenting! Great to have you here.
Good review, my system is very transparent, I've stopped buying any MFSL and UHQR's as I buy 100% Tone Poets, 90% Classics, 50% AS Craft series and 50% new OJC this means I can concentrate on collecting minty UK 1st pressings and in some cases 1st US pressings from the various pressing plants. A friend still buys all these One Steps and UHQR's which we compare with my 1st pressings. We agreed with your conclusions re Hotel California when comparing with 1st UK pressings. Agree re Abraxas as I have the One Step, ARS pressing and too many UK and US 1st pressings, the ARS sounds better than the One Step to me on my system BUT there are a variety of 1 st pressings which equal or surpass it. The issue as always is getting a minty copy
I do personally have the ARS, purchased new and it's my favorite of what I have, but I've never heard it against the One Step. Now that I have access to a copy, I will do that comparison myself. If what you experienced is true for me too, I'll be a happy camper, and not lust for a One Step Abraxas lol.
I too have stopped with the One Steps and most of the UHQR and Small Batch releases. I feel better for it and I can usually hear them at my friends if I really need to. $38-$60 is more my speed!
Thanks for sharing your experience with Hotel California UHQR vs other pressings. It's pretty obvious when you compare closely there's a sonic issue.
What everyone seems to forget getting minty originals is very difficult even when they look perfect as you've no idea on what they've been played hence they frequently end up costing more than one steps or UHQR's. The ARS was more consistent than the one step but lacked the "attack" and vibrancy of the best OG@@ThePressingMatters
@@ergloo6660 That's true and why I rarely enjoy hunting used vinyl anymore. I'm just too picky and will only end up disappointed. In some cases a UHQR is very appealing! Loved the Marley ones recently. Not that originals are that hard to find but that was a special FOMO inducing case lol. I was on that phone so fast!
I have the ARS as well and to be honest I never bothered to compare it against the MOFI One-Step and this is something I should remedy right away.
Incidentally another “sleeper” in the race for the best Santana Abraxas is one from the often maligned reissue label, Simply Vinyl. Yup. You've heard right. In fact, this *may be* my favorite of the bunch! There is only one small issue with it: the channels are reversed! (Lol) But that’s an easy fix as one can simple reverse the cables at the back of the turntable and just like that, poof! Problem fixed.
So Scott, whenever you want we can do the Great Santana-Abraxas Shootout!!! 😊
@@LetThereBeSound1 That would be great to revisit. between the two of us we have all the goods!
DCC is the one company you can count on to be as clean as you can get. Expect to pony up for the privilege as this is the true definition of hifi pressings. The others pale in comparison. The Toshiba EMIs are worth your money as well, particularly for Dark Side of the Moon. If DCC had a version of that, I haven’t seen it, much less heard it.
Hi Mark,
No they didn't do that title, but I do happen to have a Toshiba EMI of Dark Side of the Moon among many others. It really is special. As far a DCC I have several, and only had one disappointment, and that was mainly due to the source, which was a stereo tape of Surrealistic Pillow. I preferred the MOFI mono in that one case.
@@ThePressingMatters, I have more than one pressing of the Toshiba EMI Dark Side. I find it superior to even the Original UHQR of Dark Side. If DCC did do that title, I’d have to get it!
Hey check out the link I just put up for the video comparison!
It's pinned in the comments and in the description box.
Interesting take. I have a digital rip of this and the DCC. I’ve had the DCC for a while and the One Step is new for me. Immediately I felt like something was off when I began listening. It seems to have a smiley face EQ applied. Scooped in the mids. Especially the title track. The vocals are so thin and have zero body. I’m not going to say I hate it or it’s awful, just an interesting approach the mastering. It couldn’t sound more different from the DCC
Agree. It amazes me that some found it to be the best One Step yet! The most unnatural approach to mastering this record. Glad you have the DCC. I wish I had my own copy That one is so beautiful, it's really night and day difference.
@@ThePressingMatters it’s really crazy how different they sound. It’s like one has a “V” shaped EQ and the other has an inverted “V” shaped EQ. I’m happy to have both. But I think the DCC will be my reference while the One Step will be a fun listen here and there.
Oh and I’m one that really couldn’t care less about a digital step in the chain (if done with care) as long as it sounds good.
And to clarify, i do not own physical copies of either. Both are digital rips from a very reputable and well known source.
I don't care either if there is digital used to create an album. I'm all about the result. I could see enjoying the One Step as an alternate listen.
@@ThePressingMatters Interestingly enough, I feel like the title track is the worst offender in the One Step. As the album goes on it feels like the mastering choice isn’t totally bonkers. 🤷🏻♂️
@@trey81373 I'll have to give it another listen at some point because I did focus on the first three songs and yes, Hotel California was the least attractive in this regard.
Really enjoyed this evaluation Scott. I need to revisit my original MoFi of this release and compare it to the new One-Step now. Mine arrived with the dreaded seam splits, so I’m already not happy with the release (and MoFi). Sadly I think that DCC might evade my grasps. 😬
Hi Chance, You may prefer the first MFSL, but a different systems can portray these differently. Seems quite a split in opinion, but I think it's undeniable the One Step is thin and tonally off on top. You might hear it when you compare. Yeah the DCC is my grail. Remember I said I didn't have a grail? Well I do now!
@@ThePressingMatters Grail away, my friend! And good vinyl luck to you 🙏🏻
Damn. You do such a great job on these comparisons. Great work Scott.
Thank you so much Jason! I'm glad you find them interesting and useful.
Loved your comparison Scott I passed on the One step I was so tempted I have the 2009 Kevin Gray cut and I am happy with it I was told it was the same as the DCC cut by Steve Hoffman the One Step I’m definitely grabbing is Long Run can’t wait for that one awesome review.
Thank you! I've heard good things about that 2009, and I tried to get it for this video, but I thought it was a different mastering from the DCC. I'll have to research, but are you saying it's the same plates as the Hoffman? I believe they are different. Going to check now.
@@ThePressingMatters a friend of mine told me I believe they close because they both mastered a lot of albums together in the past let me know your finding Scott I couldn’t find any info.
@@MrLovell1971 I'll take a look and get back to you
I just checked and they are indeed two different masterings. The DCC credits both Steve and Kevin, but the 2009 is Kevin at ATM. So while they could sound similar, they are not the same. DCC is a tube mastering and the ATM is not. Hope that helps.
@@ThePressingMatters thanks good to know I see why the DCC is so pricey i definitely would love to hear that pressing one day. My Kevin Gray will do for now I love the sonics on it .
Scott … I mean this with sincerity. Your review and approach should be the template for which all reviews should be created. At no point did I feel you were trying to sell, rather you were getting right down to the heart of the matter
I really appreciate your comment. I make it a point to not go into these with any bias or motive - and just plain tell you what I heard. Some people get all up in arms to defend their favorite! It's not about that for me, it's about sharing a journey, in this case to find the pressing that speaks to me. I'm glad you enjoy this approach and I'm grateful to have you as a viewer.
The Vimeo link in the description for the new video from Oswaldo is not working currently...
I'll check on it, thanks
@@ThePressingMatters It works :) I do not know how accurate was the ripping in terms of level matching, but what we can hear on the video is insane!! :) The DCC really is in another league and the new One Step is just horrible...
@@Domonkos.SiegfriedI can tell you that it was very accurate to what we heard in the room. I thought the video was shocking as it easily revealed the general character of each pressing. Often it's easier for me to hear these things in a quick AB setting and these videos really do that well. Even if the levels were not perfect, the eq differences were plainly obvious. I know one viewer tried giving the One Step a small boost, and found it still had the same character overall.
@@ThePressingMatters I absolutely agree, the difference between the DCC and the MoFi One Step is perfectly noticeable, even if the levels would have not been matched at 100%. I have also downloaded the files 3 weeks ago, played on my main system, and my impression was the same. Albeit the difference was not as striking as on the video made by Oswaldo. I felt I had to change a little bit the volume on the preamp when playing back those 4 tracks successively, but my ears were maybe playing a trick at me.
Side note: When analysing those 4 track with the ReplayGain tool embedded into Foobar, the result showed various gain values from +3,76 to + 5,09 dB, depending on the track. I'm unsure if this tool is accurate, but what I'm sure about is that such difference (a track at +3,76 vs. a track at +5,09 dB) shall be very much noticeable.
@Domonkos.Siegfried I'm so glad you took advantage of using the files as well as the video. They are the best way to judge in your own system under the best conditions.
This is a pretty much timeless album...I was in high school in '86 and we were all still listening to this one.
It really all came together for this album. Great songs, production and performances.
Great honest and clear review. Congratulations
Hi Sergio,
Thank you so much for watching. Glad you found it interesting and informative.
Thank you for the article and for the files. Its stimulates a great deal of intelligent discussion, all valid and interesting. Having listened again through my In Ears and Dragonfly red Headphone DAC. A word of caution on the "Mandolin" reference as a way of describing the DCC being a better recording. It may sound better to you both but bear in mind the intro as I understood it, was unusual in that it was largely played with a 12 string acoustic, fitted with an electric pick up and further, a capo was used right up on the 7th fret, I am not surprised its tonality resembled a mandolin. So who's to say then, what sound Don Felder had in his mind. I have an all tube HiFi system which I regard as mid high to high end a much upgraded LP12 Arm & MC Cartridge which is a shame because I don't have a really great example of the Album to test. The DCC being cost prohibitive and the MOFI sold out but listening to the rips. I do overall prefer the tonal balance of the DCC, its warmer more even tempered. The MOFI has more punch and slightly better insight into the lead guitar playing but as you say, a tad over emphasis on the opening guitar intro although I didn't get as offended by it, as I remembered where he was playing on the fret board. I am going to try and get a hold of the MOFI One Step as I did enjoy that difference and if I'm lucky enough to get the DCC at a decent price I will get that too.
Hi Gerald,
Thank you for your insight into the specifics of guitar and other performance concerns. That sheds a bit more light on things. Still when faced with a choice of what to listen to for this album, I personally would opt for the DCC. It it was under $60 bucks I might get it. But it will never be, and I don't really feel a strong need to have any version in my collection. I truly am burned out on it.
@ThePressingMatters I agree, I am going to keep an eye for the DCC. Please keep doing what you do, its always interesting to get fellow vinyl fans take on things.
I plan too! Thanks for the encouragement!
I have a sealed copy of the MFSL & DCC I bought years ago. But also fell out with Eagles for many years. I did get the One-Step, I thought it was amazing . Yes, I have crappy system but did put the grills on my speakers because of brightness.. Great review
Hi,
Well people with better systems seem to like it too, but you said you have the DCC. Did you compare it to your new One Step?
Oh I just re-read. Is the DCC sealed? What are you waiting for!
I'm really happy with the One-Step, but I only listen to the Eagles in flashback mode. Plus my system sucks, I know....... I cracked open some One-Steps,& UHQRs on a had to know basis. Also, I have a bronze coming
Some will sound even better as your system improves. Though if you think the system doesn't sound that good, you might consider holding off on One Steps and UHQRs and maybe put that money towards upgrading your components. It's not like these records are selling out like they were a few years ago. They'll be there unless severely limited, like the Marley UHQRs. But most One Steps from two years ago are still available at retail. The cost of 10 One Steps could get you a decent upgrade in your system, and everything will sound better. I know it's hard to resist the latest and greatest records, but I started cutting down on expensive vinyl and ended up with a great used amp for about 1200. Just some food for thought
Interesting. I just got my one step. Totally blown away. I love to hear those details. Amazing stuff. Never heard the DCC…so can’t compare. But the one step does sound pretty darn good to me. I compared the files. The DCC is definitely pretty good. It’s sounds tuby soft. Like a great old pressing. The mofi is definitely more exact and square cornered. Interesting stuff. I will definitely keep the DCC in mind. Honestly after I heard the mofi I was blown away but I had no comparison. Both of the files you provided sound pretty good. I could enjoy the DCC and mofi. Sugar cube recordings? Recently I have switched to total DSD recording with sugar cube for playback only. The PCM smears the details ever so slightly.
I think it would in isolation, and in some systems. I know some people are loving it so you're not alone! For me, on this system, the detail on the One Step was too much. There is a point where something can go from nice detail and resolution to becoming fatiguing. I think the One Step was straddling the line there on this system. Hearing the files later through my own system, that aspect bothered me much less. All of these things are so system dependent, so I tried to be mindful not to make any absolute statements, only that the DCC did strike me as perfect in every way. All copies have strengths.
I just edited my post after comparisons.
Thank you for doing this. I have a pretty great system but it’s not at the level your recordings were done on.
Actually the Sugarcube could have been used to clean up the OG but we had it out of the system to be fair, though personally I think having it in is a great tool for focusing intently on sound.