"Sourced from the original analog masters" seems to be a big marketing emphasis of classic rock music these days. I understand the point, but what is the reality? Any idea on how these tapes were stored back in the day? Does anyone really know the provenance anymore? Shoved in a file cabinet or archived in a climate controlled vault? And everyone smoked in the studio in those days.
The Beatles will release all-analog vinyl of their mono LPs sourced from the original tapes. Other groups from the 60's and 70's are doing the same. Great, at least on the surface. Maybe?
The crux of my question has to do with the level of quality of all-analog releases that can be expected from 30-50 year old master tapes. Undoubtedly, sound degradation has occurred. To what level? Does anyone have any insights?
Posted on: 18 June 2014 by joerand
I'm wondering more about the condition of older analog tapes when used directly for modern day all-analog vinyl productions. Stan Ricker, who mastered the MFSL Beatles collection (circa 1980) expressed concerns about the condition of the original master tapes, at that time only 10-15 years old. Tom Scoltz, who, over a long period, did most of the performances on Boston's Third Stage LP, worried about the condition of tapes he recorded just six years earlier. Now, we're being offered all-analog vinyl productions sourced from tapes up to 50 years old.
Posted on: 18 June 2014 by KRM
In the case of the mono Beatles, it means cut the new master straight from the tape, having first set the correct eq etc, based on listening to a digital copy and reading the original notes. Differences may come from tape deterioration, different equipment (the original was valve and they used a modest setup to do the listening) and errors of judgement by the mastering team.
The tapes are said to be in good condition. The comments from the '80s may have related to the stereo masters.
Keith
Posted on: 19 June 2014 by Jay Coleman
There is no hard and fast rule but in general, the master tape will have deteriorated. The question is by how much. Some labels, like Music Matters, will not release a title if the tape is not up to snuff. I don't think the same can be said about all labels.
Posted on: 23 June 2014 by mudwolf
Have you tried some of the MoFi recordings? WOW, I have the Doors Strange Days and it's unbelievable, I first bought 3, next 7 and keep getting more. A Little Feat Live double is a fine example of what they were like in concert, wish I'd been there. Hearing them on top grade vinyl with inky black silences and clarity of voices and instruments is wonderful.
I know that small labels may not have cared much for tapes once they made their money, but someone like Beatles and EMI, they have a whole staff and storage. What a position to be in.
