Hi Scott. I didn't join your giveaway but I wanted to tell you which of your videos is my favorite. My favorite is: whichever one I just watched. Today's favorite is your Gaucho video. It's so thougtfully done, and full of highly valuable information for your viewers who are thinking about making an expensive purchase decision. Hey, if you ever start a Patreon, I will be among the first to join. Not so much for exclusive access to some of your content (though I imagine it would be pretty great) but just as a more regular way of supporting your work, which is such high quality and benefits so many of us.
Thank you so much for the vote of encouragement. Gestures and comments like this are truly appreciated and inspire me to continue! I've thought about starting a Patreon with some exclusive and early access content. I might just give it a try now that you mention it. It will be great to have you as the first to join! Thanks again for making my day!
I waited a long time for this one. I put it on but stopped it after 1 minute into Babylon Sisters. Why? I heard something I had NEVER heard before on this track (and I've listened to MANY versions on both CD and vinyl). I meet with three friends four times a year to group-listen to new and newly discovered old pressings. In that first minute I decided to wait and listen to the album with my friends at our next meeting in September. I want this to be a shared jaw-dropping experience.
I hope you all find plenty to love with this one. It's so good. Originals are as well, but just like you said, you'll hear many nuances brought out. Keep me updated on everyone's reaction!
Thanks for another excellent review! I just received my copy, and am blown away with the sound. I think it is the best sounding lp in my collection. I thought it was very quiet...perhaps not listening as loud as you did, but I did turn it up more than usual. It certainly invites cranking it up! Thanks again.
Hi Mark! You're welcome! I'm so excited to see the comments rolling in, for both the video, and people's reaction to hearing this masterpiece. That's awesome! Enjoy my friend and thank you for watching and commenting!
Thank you, Scott. I was highly anticipating your review on this. I think you nailed every point perfectly, and I agree with everything you said. I heard some comments about the noise floor but was happy to discover that my copy was very quiet for the most part. This was another home run for sure. I do have the RL also and felt the UHQR sounded much better in every aspect. Thank you for the great video review.
Hi Mike, Even with the variations among original RLs, even in the best case of a clean one as I had, the new pressing really does exceed it in every way. I try to keep these to the point, but I could have gone on for an hour naming all the improvements. Glad yours is relatively quiet
Right on Scott! Just when you thought it couldn’t get any better, it does! Chad needed 5 cuts on 3 sides and 6 cuts on one side to get it to where he settled on what became a winner :)
Finally got a moment to watch. Superb, as usual. I have a 🇯🇵 pressing, which is very good. But your description has me wavering about ordering. Sounds like a knockout. Hopefully, it’ll get to Amazon-no import fees, easy returns, etc. I think they’ve scheduled enough to press. Great job as usual. And lovely to read such wonderful, supportive comments from your viewers. 👍👍
Again, so many thanks. Just got the UHQR, looking forward to hearing it, and comparing to my RL promo OG. BTW, after hearing the new regular "Can't Buy a Thrill," I have written off all of them as it was so bright and brittle that it hurt my head. Keep 'em coming.
Great. It's really too bad the UME isn't "the poor man's UHQR" seeing they originate from the same mastering but something is definitely lost in the translation and cutting. Please let us know what you think when you've settled in with the UHQR!
Greetings Scott, wonderful review, had to break out my OG copy and listen, turns out it’s an M1, RL, and it sounds great as you described, and the vinyl is amazingly quite for 40+ year old pressing (really! 40+, omg). Don’t know if I’ll go for the UHQR, but your review makes it very tempting, really enjoy your reviews, stay well
Great review Scott. I have an original Gaucho Canadian pressing that sounds excellent. MCA used the RL plates. After seeing your review, I definitely need to get that UHQR. I have the QRP Miles Kind Of Blue UHQR45 which is a stunner.
Thank you for your comment! The originals will always be among the best, but if anything, they've outdone themselves here. Just like Kind of Blue where they used a superior source, in that case the plates Bernie cut from the three track for the first time, this too used what I consider the greatest source, the first off copy tape with Ludwig's EQ moves. Two very unique and special records. You're sure to love it. Please let me know here if you do get it and what you thought.
Your review of this recording convinced me not to buy the UHQR I have a original copy and I didn’t think I would need to fork out 150 bucks for this Your review convinced me I was right PS I have always thought that big bulky box was totally unnecessary and added to the price of these UHQRS
Hi Dave! That's good! Maybe not for Analogue Productions, but that is never the point of my videos. I am a fan of the label, but in my reviews I try to be objective and clear about the options, and in this case there is a great option and you have it! It's a big ask to spend $150+ on a record, even Gaucho, even if there are significant improvements there. I totally get that, and as far as the boxes, while I like them as an object, they take up way too much space and must add a lot to the cost. But I think these had to come in at this cost more for the cost of licensing, with the fancy presentation making it possible. Down the road regular 2x45 black vinyl releases are promised without the box, and should be $60 or whatever the normal rate will be at that time. That's when you may want to try one. You might even get a bit quieter vinyl, as many standard releases are quieter.
I have Gaucho Gold stamp Promo (mint) that was given to me by my MCA Rep in (1980). Sounds really good I will compare it to the UHQR I just ordered. Great Video
I agree with your assessment completely. In terms of the vinyl itself, I’ve found almost every other album I’ve bought from AS quieter than their clarity vinyl. That being said, this album sounds absolutely stunning but I feel that way in spite of the vinyl, not because of it.
Hi Chris, Seems a shame that couldn't just switch it out to black vinyl, but I guess it's a "selling point" that's locked in. They don't make exchanges easy for the UHQR, and people probably just don't bother. Thankfully the sound exceeds expectations! If they ever do the 45 on black vinyl as they have stated would happen after these are sold out, this would be my first choice from the catalog.
My copy arrived a few days ago. I have no other pressings to compare it to, just the CD, which sounds pretty good for a CD. That said, my feelings about the UHQR pretty much match up with your observations & conclusions about it. I like it more than the Aja UHQR, but probably because I already had a superb sounding 1980 pressing of Aja (bought it myself when I was a kid. I had good taste then!). The UHQR is better, but not sure if it's $150 better than the stellar early pressings. I freaking LOVE the Gaucho UHQR, for all the reasons you describe. It's joyous and thrilling. Like we discussed in comments on your video from last week, the painstaking work Bernie and others did is in service to the musicality of this much loved recording. Thanks for another outstanding video, Scott! With best wishes as always, Ron
Hi Ron, so glad to hear from you on this! It's really a perfect job. They kept it faithful, but were able to draw more out of it, without destroying its lovely character. You really can't ask for a better approach on this. We can be grateful that people with exquisite taste and discernment are behind this, namely Bernie and Chad (and Bob Ludwig) I shudder to think it another "premium" reissue company tried their hand at this.
Thanks for the review Scott👍🏻 I admit other than the two hits off of Gaucho, I am not the biggest fan of this album. Still it is one of those amazing sounding albums that due to its production and mastering I get seduced into thinking I have to have, ha. This UHQR seems to be getting pretty much universal praise as far as sound. Good deal I am glad for the results to be positive. For me though, the big elephant in the room is “What will the Katy Lied UHQR sound like?” Wont be too controversial with my speculations but I am very curious as to how Katy will finally turn out. Will this be the one to overcome the sound issues? Are the issues baked in or not baked in? …the mystery remains. Hoping for the best🤞🏻 Thanks again for the review Scott! Well done as always.
Thank you for your comment. I gotta say, perhaps I wasn't either at one time. I think hearing it like this would convert anybody. Fascinating sound and production. I hope you get to hear it sometime under good conditions, even if you don't end up buying it. You won't forget it!
Katy Lied is indeed the elephant in the room! No wonder they are saving it till last?! I bet they will nail it and shock everyone as a sort of grand finale, fireworks and all! One can hope! Thanks for watching and commenting!
Yes it has to be mentioned. It's not just you. I'm not sure it's worth returning over and playing that game. If new copies were sent before return that would be ideal but it hasn't worked that way in the past for UHQR. You used to have to prove the sonic issue with a video, destroy the record on video after they agree, and hope like hell your replacement isn't worse! Kind of discourages exchanges to say the least!
@@rickladue7521 The side I listened to, was dead quiet. The noise floor was about as quiet as it gets, and I did not even run it through my VPI, before playing.
Thanks, Scott. Sincere review as always. Thought about getting it, but I always just come back to sometimes “liking” the Dan and never really loving them.
Heh... Same here... Although *THIS* particular album I think as far as not only sound, but also brilliant composition and arrangement sets itself orders of magnitude apart from all their others. Aja is a very pale 2nd..., and the rest other than a song here and there just simply don't do much for me. But, THIS one... Oh yeah... There is some seriously special magic going on here. Still... not being a wealthy person like our dear host here... 😁 I'm still undecided and am trying my darndest to convince myself that the original is good enough...
Planning on ordering this to ship with the Yes 90125 from AS next month. Gaucho was the one I have been most excited about since they made the announcement. I have a few versions including the RL MD1 and the previous re-release. It was my introduction to SD as a teenager growing up in London at the time. I have a few of the other SD UHQRs, but have yet to open them. Of UHQRs I have played, I find the clarity vinyl not the most quiet vinyl and some of my decades old vinyl is quieter - like dead quiet. I don’t really understand why they can’t replicate the Japanese pressing quality. They really knew what they were doing in that department. Nice review and even though it is a fantastic record in its OG pressing, I know exactly what you mean about the lack of detail around the backing vocals. I also find the bass not the most defined. It sounds like the UHQR is an overall improvement, even though the 45rpm gets in the way for me.
Hi Nicholas, I too was most excited for this one. Even over Aja. I knew the recording was splendid already, but imagined a little touch up would make it a true reference. You're going to love the improvement. It's almost impossible to believe it could be better but it really is! I hope they can make adjustments to get this vinyl formula truly quiet. Wait till you hear how those background vocals sound!
Nice review Scott I think Aja UHQR sounds better than Gaucho, more organic and flowing and the UHQR really brings it out. There is more musical content and layering which is brought to the forefront. The Gaucho UHQR sounds nicely opened up - the slower tempos and methodical drum and sampled wendel drum tracks are distracting. The layered sustained horn section sounds lush. Vocals layered nicely. I noticed you didn’t have to crank the volume up like other UHQRs to get clarity. The RL is excellent but the UHQR is more open, unrestrained and breathes. Babylon Sisters… shake it😅
Thank you! Great comment. I think Aja is a more interesting album than Gaucho, and I love the UHQR of it too but I was really surprised how much I loved Gaucho. I find the production touches so interesting, especially on the new pressing. I guess the sonic experience elevated the material quite a bit. It was definitely a fun listen!
Thank you so much Andrew. I am glad you found my descriptions to give you an least an idea of the differences. This was an enjoyable review process - not a bad album to listen to countless times!
Yeah, I was on the fence because of the cost here in Europe and it is a short album. I actually don’t have a copy and have been listening to the MFSL CD, which is excellent. I have since ordered it, as Aja was so wonderful, and am looking forward to giving it a spin. I just can’t resist that temptation…🙄 Nice review Scott, thank you!
Thanks Scott for your review. I have the 3 copies of Masterdisk RL, the Canadian and the Back to Black. Of course the Masterdisk RL is by far the best from these. I have the Promo Masterdisk RL in VG+ condition, another copy in Near Mint condition and last year I managed to buy a sealed copy via Discogs from a seller in Sweden. This version has a stamp on the back mentioning For Europe Sales Only. I opened it yesterday while waiting for my UHQR. All 3 OGs including the one I opened yesterday are Masterdisk RL M1! I played only Babylon Sister and Hey Nineteen and still on the first play the LP has a little bit of noise. There is one comment here mentioning got tired looking for a 100% quiet OG. Maybe an ultrasonic cleaning machine can take out this little bit of noise. Not sure. But anyways....the sound of these OGs blows your ears. I have a Rega P10 with Rega Aura Phono Preamp - Rega Aethos amplifier and Revel Performa 228Be speakers.
Thanks for your informative comment! It's kind of mind blowing a record that sounded this good was made in 1980! Originals will always be desirable , and I'll never let go of mine. Can't wait to hear what you think of the UHQR. Please get back once you've heard it.
I don’t think it’s the revelation that AJA was but it’s definitely the best sounding copy by a good margin. And the original is great. But this one is perfectly balanced and smooth from top to bottom
Agreed, with an original as good as this, small but significant improvements are all that's necessary. I'm glad they didn't go overboard. Well done, if not a revelation.
I ordered this because I have several OG pressings but could never find one that was as quiet as I like and got tired of hunting… re: Aja- I enjoyed the UHQR except one thing I noticed was slightly less bass punch than the OG…. Looking forward to hearing this for myself- thanks for the review enjoyed it 😎
You were correct about a little surface noise - a little disappointed in that but overall it was very dynamic and alive- I felt like I had to push the bass with my system more than other recordings I own also… did you feel that also?
I didn't really feel that, perhaps because the new speakers reach lower. I think it sounds in balance for this recording. I think I heard or read Micheal Fremer refer to this, and he felt the bass was tightened up a bit and better overall than the OG. I would agree there. I haven't really taken it out of the shootout yet and compared directly to Aja, but I think you may be correct that it just isn't as deep as Aja or some other records. However to me it sounded just right for this recording. To EQ it for more bass was something they may have felt would affect the rest in a negative way.
My first listen was with my Shibata stylus - took another run at it with the Microline - much better- quieter and more bass - odd because usually the shibata is punchier- but the ML wins on this one 😎
Hi Scott, love your Chanel. I’ve experienced some distortion in the vocals on the Aja UHQR, I hope that Gaocho isn’t like that. It’s very annoying to listen to.
I received mine a few days ago, but have yet to play it. I will be giving it a listen tomorrow or Monday. I do have all of the other Steely Dan UHQR records.
@@ThePressingMatters I gave one side a listen this morning, and this record is on par with the other Steely Dan UHQR releases. I do have an original, and yes that record sounds very good. I would say that if you have a budget, the original is the one you want. Myself, I love the extra details that are brought out in these pressings, and for me, spending the extra money is worth it. The UHQR, and One Step pressings are a luxury item that deliver that extra bit of sound quality you just cannot get anywhere else. High res digital sounds good, but I still prefer a UHQR or One Step.
@jeffl915 Thank you so much for getting back to me with your initial impressions of the Gaucho UHQR, and your comment on the original pressing as well. I am in complete agreement. This was the UHQR I was most looking forward to and I was not disappointed. To me it was absolutely worth it! The original is a fantastic record too if one doesn't want to spend the money for this. Enjoy the rest of this very special record my friend!
@@ThePressingMatters I tell you what. By far the best sounding record I own is the One Step of Blood Sweat and Tears. My jaw drops every time I play that record. The background is pure black, zero noise, even with the volume cranked up.
@@jeffl915 You know, I got so many of MOFI's One Steps, and I skipped that one! I thought the original was good enough for a record I like, but never play much. But over time, hearing nothing but raves about it, I came to regret not getting it then. I guess it's not super expensive nowadays, so your endorsement has me considering getting my hands on it!
If you can wait just a bit, I think Oz will be by to hear it, and give you another opinion. I know you both were not completely won over by Aja. That said, in my opinion, it's a better job than Aja.
Gee I hate to think about it! They eat a lot of space if you put the box on a shelf. I think 9 fit in a IKEA Kallax cube. This is why the boxes get so much pushback, and why some store the box away and put the inner gatefolds on the shelf instead.
Great review. I tend to be biased towards the OG for contemporary music if I have a good copy and it's mastered decently because that's the way I remember and EXPERIENCED that OG vibe, "warts"" and all. That said, I did go for the CS&N for a better listen. But a re-master will never be an OG, unique in time and space.
It's true and in this case you've got a truly great original. Still it's wonderful when perfectionists work on something like this. It's not just different, like so many remastering jobs. It's interesting because of the use of the Ludwig EQ'd tape. It's like Ludwig is guiding the process and Bernie executed it with discernment to make it the best.
Agreed. More of these new remastered crop come closer to the OG vibe than those done yesteryear (too much makeup). I quit going the remastering route back then, but am now reconsidering on a record by record basis. I hope you will consider if the vintage "vibe" when the OG recording happened is retained in your analysis. I consider you one of my "go to guys" for remastering critique.👌👍 Keep up the good work.
Thanks! This one more than any other in recent memory does retain the vintage vibe and tonal quality of the original. Yet it's a significant improvement across the board! Some other companies like Rhino Hi Fi and MOFI probably would have killed this in an attempt to have it wow people with detail. Not needed. It got just what it needed and nothing more. That's good taste in mastering.
So now that I've gotten the UHQR of this, I can get why many like this so much. It's smooth, spacious and easy to listen to. But I noticed that, aside from the bright top end of the MCA Audiophile, its midrange is more forward than the UHQR. Fagen's voice is something far back in the mix on the UHQR, whereas the MCA pushes him forward. And some of the instruments are more forward to, and have a bit more transient pluck or pop. I feel the percussiveness of the pick of the guitars on the MCA, whereas those aren't as apparent with the UHQR. Thankfully, Third World Man is much more spacious and has greater ease on the UHQR, but I feel a little less of the impact of Larry Carlton's playing, his phrasing. So in some ways, I feel that the UHQR is pulled back a little too much. It's subtle, and I still like it for many reasons, but in some ways, it's a bit less dramatically impactful.
Yes, your last sentence stuck out to me. For the MCA, even with the brighter top end, it does come across as 'dramatically impactful' I totally agree there. But on overall balance, the UHQR is more to my taste. A little more laid back and spacious. And yes, Third World Man is a treat in the UHQR I'm glad you feel mostly positive about it. You now have two of the best, and hopefully you'll come across a nice RL in your travels. You might like it most of all!
@ThePressingMatters I actually saw a pretty nice RL (MD-1). It looked very nice, but not completely flawless. They were asking $35. Do I really need another one, I ask myself?
I bought two OG discs over the last year in preparation for the UHQR. One was an utter failure and the second one was, just as you said, probably the best sounding OG non-audiophile album I’ve heard. Both were M1. With that being said, it’s still noisy. When compared to the UHQR, it’s noisy as hell in July. It’s just noisy. And yes, I’ve cleaned it twice. Don’t get me wrong, if this is all I had, I’d be happy, the OG is fantastic. But, it cannot hold a candle to that UHQR, in many respects.
I think I got lucky with my OG. Lots knows how, it didn't look too promising, as I ditched the jacket! This is on another level, minor noise floor issues aside. Fantastic. Thanks for watching today!
@ThePressingMatters oh, nothing earth shattering, but a healthy stack for sure. I watched the video, and you laid out a convincing argument...but I'm still not going to buy it! I'm buying the sacd's as they roll out... which have been excruciatingly slow. Couple of points you made... I own a M- copy of Gaucho. RL M1/M1, and agree, it does sounds glorious. Babylon Sisters is my all time fav SD song. Also agree on the Clarity vinyl compound. It isn't that quiet. I think MFSL Supervinyl is much much superior. Lastly, of you take the dive and get, The Royal Scam UHQR, my favorite SD album...I'll see what you have to say. I could POSSIBLY be persuaded 😂
Hi Scott.
I didn't join your giveaway but I wanted to tell you which of your videos is my favorite. My favorite is: whichever one I just watched.
Today's favorite is your Gaucho video. It's so thougtfully done, and full of highly valuable information for your viewers who are thinking about making an expensive purchase decision.
Hey, if you ever start a Patreon, I will be among the first to join. Not so much for exclusive access to some of your content (though I imagine it would be pretty great) but just as a more regular way of supporting your work, which is such high quality and benefits so many of us.
Thank you so much for the vote of encouragement. Gestures and comments like this are truly appreciated and inspire me to continue!
I've thought about starting a Patreon with some exclusive and early access content. I might just give it a try now that you mention it. It will be great to have you as the first to join!
Thanks again for making my day!
I waited a long time for this one. I put it on but stopped it after 1 minute into Babylon Sisters. Why? I heard something I had NEVER heard before on this track (and I've listened to MANY versions on both CD and vinyl). I meet with three friends four times a year to group-listen to new and newly discovered old pressings. In that first minute I decided to wait and listen to the album with my friends at our next meeting in September. I want this to be a shared jaw-dropping experience.
I hope you all find plenty to love with this one. It's so good. Originals are as well, but just like you said, you'll hear many nuances brought out. Keep me updated on everyone's reaction!
Thanks for another excellent review! I just received my copy, and am blown away with the sound. I think it is the best sounding lp in my collection. I thought it was very quiet...perhaps not listening as loud as you did, but I did turn it up more than usual. It certainly invites cranking it up! Thanks again.
Hi Mark!
You're welcome! I'm so excited to see the comments rolling in, for both the video, and people's reaction to hearing this masterpiece. That's awesome! Enjoy my friend and thank you for watching and commenting!
Thank you, Scott. I was highly anticipating your review on this. I think you nailed every point perfectly, and I agree with everything you said. I heard some comments about the noise floor but was happy to discover that my copy was very quiet for the most part. This was another home run for sure. I do have the RL also and felt the UHQR sounded much better in every aspect. Thank you for the great video review.
Hi Mike,
Even with the variations among original RLs, even in the best case of a clean one as I had, the new pressing really does exceed it in every way. I try to keep these to the point, but I could have gone on for an hour naming all the improvements. Glad yours is relatively quiet
Superb! I totally agree Scott. I enjoyed every second of the video, on to the next one. Bravo!!!
Thank you! So glad you found it interesting. Thanks for your continued support of what I'm doing here!
Mine is arriving later today and based on what I just heard, I can’t wait to spin it! Thanks for the review…
Absolutely! Thank you for watching, Mike. I hope you'll share your views on it here in the comments. Would love to hear what you think!
Right on Scott! Just when you thought it couldn’t get any better, it does! Chad needed 5 cuts on 3 sides and 6 cuts on one side to get it to where he settled on what became a winner :)
Absolutely. I'm thrilled it came out like this.
Finally got a moment to watch. Superb, as usual. I have a 🇯🇵 pressing, which is very good. But your description has me wavering about ordering. Sounds like a knockout. Hopefully, it’ll get to Amazon-no import fees, easy returns, etc. I think they’ve scheduled enough to press.
Great job as usual. And lovely to read such wonderful, supportive comments from your viewers. 👍👍
Thanks Anthony. I feel it's one of those releases that reminds us of why we love vinyl. That magical moment when everything comes together.
Again, so many thanks. Just got the UHQR, looking forward to hearing it, and comparing to my RL promo OG. BTW, after hearing the new regular "Can't Buy a Thrill," I have written off all of them as it was so bright and brittle that it hurt my head. Keep 'em coming.
Great. It's really too bad the UME isn't "the poor man's UHQR" seeing they originate from the same mastering but something is definitely lost in the translation and cutting.
Please let us know what you think when you've settled in with the UHQR!
Greetings Scott, wonderful review, had to break out my OG copy and listen, turns out it’s an M1, RL, and it sounds great as you described, and the vinyl is amazingly quite for 40+ year old pressing (really! 40+, omg). Don’t know if I’ll go for the UHQR, but your review makes it very tempting, really enjoy your reviews, stay well
Thank you my friend. So good to hear from you. Sounds like you have a great copy. Glad you enjoyed this video!
Great review Scott. I have an original Gaucho Canadian pressing that sounds excellent. MCA used the RL plates. After seeing your review, I definitely need to get that UHQR. I have the QRP Miles Kind Of Blue UHQR45 which is a stunner.
Thank you for your comment! The originals will always be among the best, but if anything, they've outdone themselves here. Just like Kind of Blue where they used a superior source, in that case the plates Bernie cut from the three track for the first time, this too used what I consider the greatest source, the first off copy tape with Ludwig's EQ moves. Two very unique and special records. You're sure to love it. Please let me know here if you do get it and what you thought.
Your review of this recording convinced me not to buy the UHQR I have a original copy and I didn’t think I would need to fork out 150 bucks for this Your review convinced me I was right PS I have always thought that big bulky box was totally unnecessary and added to the price of these UHQRS
Hi Dave!
That's good! Maybe not for Analogue Productions, but that is never the point of my videos. I am a fan of the label, but in my reviews I try to be objective and clear about the options, and in this case there is a great option and you have it! It's a big ask to spend $150+ on a record, even Gaucho, even if there are significant improvements there. I totally get that, and as far as the boxes, while I like them as an object, they take up way too much space and must add a lot to the cost. But I think these had to come in at this cost more for the cost of licensing, with the fancy presentation making it possible. Down the road regular 2x45 black vinyl releases are promised without the box, and should be $60 or whatever the normal rate will be at that time. That's when you may want to try one. You might even get a bit quieter vinyl, as many standard releases are quieter.
I have Gaucho Gold stamp Promo (mint) that was given to me by my MCA Rep in (1980). Sounds really good I will compare it to the UHQR I just ordered. Great Video
Hi Dan!
That sounds like it will be a great comparison. Please come back to share your results. Thanks so much for watching!
I have one of those too sounds good but my copy is a little noisier than I like 😑
I agree with your assessment completely. In terms of the vinyl itself, I’ve found almost every other album I’ve bought from AS quieter than their clarity vinyl. That being said, this album sounds absolutely stunning but I feel that way in spite of the vinyl, not because of it.
Hi Chris,
Seems a shame that couldn't just switch it out to black vinyl, but I guess it's a "selling point" that's locked in. They don't make exchanges easy for the UHQR, and people probably just don't bother.
Thankfully the sound exceeds expectations!
If they ever do the 45 on black vinyl as they have stated would happen after these are sold out, this would be my first choice from the catalog.
My copy arrived a few days ago. I have no other pressings to compare it to, just the CD, which sounds pretty good for a CD.
That said, my feelings about the UHQR pretty much match up with your observations & conclusions about it.
I like it more than the Aja UHQR, but probably because I already had a superb sounding 1980 pressing of Aja (bought it myself when I was a kid. I had good taste then!). The UHQR is better, but not sure if it's $150 better than the stellar early pressings.
I freaking LOVE the Gaucho UHQR, for all the reasons you describe. It's joyous and thrilling. Like we discussed in comments on your video from last week, the painstaking work Bernie and others did is in service to the musicality of this much loved recording.
Thanks for another outstanding video, Scott! With best wishes as always,
Ron
Hi Ron, so glad to hear from you on this! It's really a perfect job. They kept it faithful, but were able to draw more out of it, without destroying its lovely character. You really can't ask for a better approach on this. We can be grateful that people with exquisite taste and discernment are behind this, namely Bernie and Chad (and Bob Ludwig)
I shudder to think it another "premium" reissue company tried their hand at this.
Thanks Scott for another great video.
Absolutely, Jim. My pleasure to cover this topic. Glad you enjoyed the presentation.
Thanks for the review Scott👍🏻
I admit other than the two hits off of Gaucho, I am not the biggest fan of this album. Still it is one of those amazing sounding albums that due to its production and mastering I get seduced into thinking I have to have, ha. This UHQR seems to be getting pretty much universal praise as far as sound. Good deal I am glad for the results to be positive.
For me though, the big elephant in the room is “What will the Katy Lied UHQR sound like?” Wont be too controversial with my speculations but I am very curious as to how Katy will finally turn out. Will this be the one to overcome the sound issues? Are the issues baked in or not baked in? …the mystery remains. Hoping for the best🤞🏻
Thanks again for the review Scott! Well done as always.
Thank you for your comment. I gotta say, perhaps I wasn't either at one time. I think hearing it like this would convert anybody. Fascinating sound and production. I hope you get to hear it sometime under good conditions, even if you don't end up buying it. You won't forget it!
Katy Lied is indeed the elephant in the room!
No wonder they are saving it till last?!
I bet they will nail it and shock everyone as a sort of grand finale, fireworks and all! One can hope!
Thanks for watching and commenting!
Thank you for bringing up the noise floor in the uhqr vinyl. I thought maybe it was just me. I agree with you it does not ruin the experience.
Yes it has to be mentioned. It's not just you. I'm not sure it's worth returning over and playing that game. If new copies were sent before return that would be ideal but it hasn't worked that way in the past for UHQR. You used to have to prove the sonic issue with a video, destroy the record on video after they agree, and hope like hell your replacement isn't worse!
Kind of discourages exchanges to say the least!
@@rickladue7521 The side I listened to, was dead quiet. The noise floor was about as quiet as it gets, and I did not even run it through my VPI, before playing.
In my humble opinion, this might be the best release to-date. I have the original, so I can A/B both.
Thanks, Scott. Sincere review as always. Thought about getting it, but I always just come back to sometimes “liking” the Dan and never really loving them.
You're welcome my friend. Definitely for the cost, it's for super fans only. Keep an eye out for a clean original as described. Gets you 95% there!
Heh... Same here... Although *THIS* particular album I think as far as not only sound, but also brilliant composition and arrangement sets itself orders of magnitude apart from all their others. Aja is a very pale 2nd..., and the rest other than a song here and there just simply don't do much for me. But, THIS one... Oh yeah... There is some seriously special magic going on here. Still... not being a wealthy person like our dear host here... 😁 I'm still undecided and am trying my darndest to convince myself that the original is good enough...
@@latheofheaven Ha, meanwhile my 1999 Honda is falling apart lol. Priorities!
@@ThePressingMatters Uh huh... Yeah, surrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrre... 😁
@latheofheaven
And I eat peanut butter sandwiches for weeks leading up to the next UHQR. 🤣
Ordered it. Too many great reviews, yours included. Over $300 here in Oz 😮
Ouch! But it really is wonderful. Hope the delivery goes well.
Planning on ordering this to ship with the Yes 90125 from AS next month. Gaucho was the one I have been most excited about since they made the announcement. I have a few versions including the RL MD1 and the previous re-release. It was my introduction to SD as a teenager growing up in London at the time. I have a few of the other SD UHQRs, but have yet to open them. Of UHQRs I have played, I find the clarity vinyl not the most quiet vinyl and some of my decades old vinyl is quieter - like dead quiet. I don’t really understand why they can’t replicate the Japanese pressing quality. They really knew what they were doing in that department. Nice review and even though it is a fantastic record in its OG pressing, I know exactly what you mean about the lack of detail around the backing vocals. I also find the bass not the most defined. It sounds like the UHQR is an overall improvement, even though the 45rpm gets in the way for me.
Hi Nicholas,
I too was most excited for this one. Even over Aja. I knew the recording was splendid already, but imagined a little touch up would make it a true reference. You're going to love the improvement. It's almost impossible to believe it could be better but it really is! I hope they can make adjustments to get this vinyl formula truly quiet.
Wait till you hear how those background vocals sound!
Nice review Scott
I think Aja UHQR sounds better than Gaucho, more organic and flowing and the UHQR really brings it out. There is more musical content and layering which is brought to the forefront. The Gaucho UHQR sounds nicely opened up - the slower tempos and methodical drum and sampled wendel drum tracks are distracting. The layered sustained horn section sounds lush. Vocals layered nicely. I noticed you didn’t have to crank the volume up like other UHQRs to get clarity. The RL is excellent but the UHQR is more open, unrestrained and breathes. Babylon Sisters… shake it😅
Thank you! Great comment. I think Aja is a more interesting album than Gaucho, and I love the UHQR of it too but I was really surprised how much I loved Gaucho. I find the production touches so interesting, especially on the new pressing. I guess the sonic experience elevated the material quite a bit. It was definitely a fun listen!
Great work Scott, maybe your best review yet, I got a great idea of the differences between the different reissues, many thx !
Thank you so much Andrew. I am glad you found my descriptions to give you an least an idea of the differences. This was an enjoyable review process - not a bad album to listen to countless times!
Yeah, I was on the fence because of the cost here in Europe and it is a short album.
I actually don’t have a copy and have been listening to the MFSL CD, which is excellent.
I have since ordered it, as Aja was so wonderful, and am looking forward to giving it a spin. I just can’t resist that temptation…🙄
Nice review Scott, thank you!
If yoou like Aja you will love this, I think it's even better!
Thanks Scott for your review. I have the 3 copies of Masterdisk RL, the Canadian and the Back to Black. Of course the Masterdisk RL is by far the best from these. I have the Promo Masterdisk RL in VG+ condition, another copy in Near Mint condition and last year I managed to buy a sealed copy via Discogs from a seller in Sweden. This version has a stamp on the back mentioning For Europe Sales Only. I opened it yesterday while waiting for my UHQR. All 3 OGs including the one I opened yesterday are Masterdisk RL M1! I played only Babylon Sister and Hey Nineteen and still on the first play the LP has a little bit of noise. There is one comment here mentioning got tired looking for a 100% quiet OG. Maybe an ultrasonic cleaning machine can take out this little bit of noise. Not sure. But anyways....the sound of these OGs blows your ears. I have a Rega P10 with Rega Aura Phono Preamp - Rega Aethos amplifier and Revel Performa 228Be speakers.
Thanks for your informative comment! It's kind of mind blowing a record that sounded this good was made in 1980! Originals will always be desirable , and I'll never let go of mine. Can't wait to hear what you think of the UHQR. Please get back once you've heard it.
I don’t think it’s the revelation that AJA was but it’s definitely the best sounding copy by a good margin. And the original is great. But this one is perfectly balanced and smooth from top to bottom
Agreed, with an original as good as this, small but significant improvements are all that's necessary. I'm glad they didn't go overboard. Well done, if not a revelation.
I ordered this because I have several OG pressings but could never find one that was as quiet as I like and got tired of hunting… re: Aja- I enjoyed the UHQR except one thing I noticed was slightly less bass punch than the OG…. Looking forward to hearing this for myself- thanks for the review enjoyed it 😎
Hi Scott!
I look forward to your impressions once you've settled in with this.! Please come back and share your thoughts!
You were correct about a little surface noise - a little disappointed in that but overall it was very dynamic and alive- I felt like I had to push the bass with my system more than other recordings I own also… did you feel that also?
I didn't really feel that, perhaps because the new speakers reach lower. I think it sounds in balance for this recording. I think I heard or read Micheal Fremer refer to this, and he felt the bass was tightened up a bit and better overall than the OG. I would agree there. I haven't really taken it out of the shootout yet and compared directly to Aja, but I think you may be correct that it just isn't as deep as Aja or some other records. However to me it sounded just right for this recording. To EQ it for more bass was something they may have felt would affect the rest in a negative way.
My first listen was with my Shibata stylus - took another run at it with the Microline - much better- quieter and more bass - odd because usually the shibata is punchier- but the ML wins on this one 😎
Awesome! I prefer the ML to the SL, my only experience with a Shibata. Did you get a quieter background with the ML as well?
Hi Scott, love your Chanel. I’ve experienced some distortion in the vocals on the Aja UHQR, I hope that Gaocho isn’t like that. It’s very annoying to listen to.
I think you'll be pleased! They've tastefully tailored those vocals here to sound better than ever!
I received mine a few days ago, but have yet to play it. I will be giving it a listen tomorrow or Monday. I do have all of the other Steely Dan UHQR records.
Great! I hope you come let me know what you think!
@@ThePressingMatters I gave one side a listen this morning, and this record is on par with the other Steely Dan UHQR releases. I do have an original, and yes that record sounds very good. I would say that if you have a budget, the original is the one you want. Myself, I love the extra details that are brought out in these pressings, and for me, spending the extra money is worth it. The UHQR, and One Step pressings are a luxury item that deliver that extra bit of sound quality you just cannot get anywhere else. High res digital sounds good, but I still prefer a UHQR or One Step.
@jeffl915 Thank you so much for getting back to me with your initial impressions of the Gaucho UHQR, and your comment on the original pressing as well. I am in complete agreement. This was the UHQR I was most looking forward to and I was not disappointed. To me it was absolutely worth it! The original is a fantastic record too if one doesn't want to spend the money for this.
Enjoy the rest of this very special record my friend!
@@ThePressingMatters I tell you what. By far the best sounding record I own is the One Step of Blood Sweat and Tears. My jaw drops every time I play that record. The background is pure black, zero noise, even with the volume cranked up.
@@jeffl915 You know, I got so many of MOFI's One Steps, and I skipped that one! I thought the original was good enough for a record I like, but never play much. But over time, hearing nothing but raves about it, I came to regret not getting it then. I guess it's not super expensive nowadays, so your endorsement has me considering getting my hands on it!
Scott,
Nice review. I just bought this on your recommendation.
Mr. Pete------>
aging hippie
Awesome. Prepare for a great audio experience!
Thanks for watching, and please report back!
You're tempting me, Scott. I'm gun shy after Aja, but you and I seem to agree on these pressing matters. 🙂
If you can wait just a bit, I think Oz will be by to hear it, and give you another opinion. I know you both were not completely won over by Aja.
That said, in my opinion, it's a better job than Aja.
@ThePressingMatters I can be patient. I still need to engage my record terrier to try find my other copies.
@@jeffbellin8224 You're engaged to a terrier...?!! 😲
@@latheofheavenWell, it's the one who can burrow down and smell where my original might have gone.
@@jeffbellin8224 Ah... I was worried there for a minute...
Do you know how many UHQR Cases can fit in one cube where we store our records?
Gee I hate to think about it! They eat a lot of space if you put the box on a shelf. I think 9 fit in a IKEA Kallax cube. This is why the boxes get so much pushback, and why some store the box away and put the inner gatefolds on the shelf instead.
@@ThePressingMatters Thank you!
@@robbiedetroitstigermanviny8883 You're welcome! Have you ever been tempted to try one?
Great review. I tend to be biased towards the OG for contemporary music if I have a good copy and it's mastered decently because that's the way I remember and EXPERIENCED that OG vibe, "warts"" and all. That said, I did go for the CS&N for a better listen. But a re-master will never be an OG, unique in time and space.
It's true and in this case you've got a truly great original. Still it's wonderful when perfectionists work on something like this. It's not just different, like so many remastering jobs. It's interesting because of the use of the Ludwig EQ'd tape. It's like Ludwig is guiding the process and Bernie executed it with discernment to make it the best.
Agreed. More of these new remastered crop come closer to the OG vibe than those done yesteryear (too much makeup). I quit going the remastering route back then, but am now reconsidering on a record by record basis. I hope you will consider if the vintage "vibe" when the OG recording happened is retained in your analysis. I consider you one of my "go to guys" for remastering critique.👌👍 Keep up the good work.
Thanks! This one more than any other in recent memory does retain the vintage vibe and tonal quality of the original. Yet it's a significant improvement across the board! Some other companies like Rhino Hi Fi and MOFI probably would have killed this in an attempt to have it wow people with detail. Not needed. It got just what it needed and nothing more. That's good taste in mastering.
And ……sold . 🙏🏼❤️
It's a beauty! I think you pull be thrilled, Anthony!
So now that I've gotten the UHQR of this, I can get why many like this so much. It's smooth, spacious and easy to listen to. But I noticed that, aside from the bright top end of the MCA Audiophile, its midrange is more forward than the UHQR. Fagen's voice is something far back in the mix on the UHQR, whereas the MCA pushes him forward. And some of the instruments are more forward to, and have a bit more transient pluck or pop. I feel the percussiveness of the pick of the guitars on the MCA, whereas those aren't as apparent with the UHQR.
Thankfully, Third World Man is much more spacious and has greater ease on the UHQR, but I feel a little less of the impact of Larry Carlton's playing, his phrasing. So in some ways, I feel that the UHQR is pulled back a little too much. It's subtle, and I still like it for many reasons, but in some ways, it's a bit less dramatically impactful.
Yes, your last sentence stuck out to me. For the MCA, even with the brighter top end, it does come across as 'dramatically impactful'
I totally agree there. But on overall balance, the UHQR is more to my taste. A little more laid back and spacious. And yes, Third World Man is a treat in the UHQR
I'm glad you feel mostly positive about it. You now have two of the best, and hopefully you'll come across a nice RL in your travels. You might like it most of all!
@ThePressingMatters I actually saw a pretty nice RL (MD-1). It looked very nice, but not completely flawless. They were asking $35. Do I really need another one, I ask myself?
@@jeffbellin8224 Of course you don't! Only if it's $10 and flawless!
I bought two OG discs over the last year in preparation for the UHQR. One was an utter failure and the second one was, just as you said, probably the best sounding OG non-audiophile album I’ve heard. Both were M1. With that being said, it’s still noisy. When compared to the UHQR, it’s noisy as hell in July. It’s just noisy. And yes, I’ve cleaned it twice. Don’t get me wrong, if this is all I had, I’d be happy, the OG is fantastic. But, it cannot hold a candle to that UHQR, in many respects.
I think I got lucky with my OG. Lots knows how, it didn't look too promising, as I ditched the jacket!
This is on another level, minor noise floor issues aside. Fantastic. Thanks for watching today!
Better you than me. Aja was my first and last $150 Dan drop.
You didn't care for it? True it is super expensive. I hope you watch anyway. There's some good suggestions on a great affordable alternative.
I think you're missing at least one sentence.....
My comment is gone.
I'm seeing it here.
@ThePressingMatters long day. Came home with a fat stack of records.
Will watch your vid shortly.
Ok great! Any treasures?
@ThePressingMatters oh, nothing earth shattering, but a healthy stack for sure.
I watched the video, and you laid out a convincing argument...but I'm still not going to buy it!
I'm buying the sacd's as they roll out... which have been excruciatingly slow.
Couple of points you made...
I own a M- copy of Gaucho. RL M1/M1, and agree, it does sounds glorious.
Babylon Sisters is my all time fav SD song.
Also agree on the Clarity vinyl compound. It isn't that quiet.
I think MFSL Supervinyl is much much superior.
Lastly, of you take the dive and get, The Royal Scam UHQR, my favorite SD album...I'll see what you have to say.
I could POSSIBLY be persuaded 😂
@@rcpsammy7186 Ok! Challenge accepted!
Still prefer org press albeit UHQR is hifi better
That's a sound conclusion!