View Full Version : Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band [VINYL] 2017
I think I have about 5 vinyl copies of Sgt. Pepper, from the original bought back in the day (still playable but now wrecked) to the 2012 and 2014 remaster / reissues with a couple in between (all well played but mint).
Simple question: for those that have it, or have heard it, what's the 2017 version like? In no order, I'm interested in:-
1. Quality of the vinyl and how clean / quiet it is?
2. Is it truly re-mixed and if so does it add anything positive?
3. SQ in terms of dynamic range and sound-stage?
4. What's the second disc like? Worth the £35 for this alone perhaps?
I'm not desperate for another copy of Sgt. Pepper's in my rack, but having lived with this music for 50 years I find it's an album I keep going back to and have always thought there was a bit more of Sgt. Pepper trying to get out.
its deffo a remix. Much more both speakers, which is ideal for headphones as the old one can come more from one often. Its a bit wider too. Its on my wish list. second side is interesting too.
Ive only listened via spotify tho
Stratmangler
28-05-2017, 10:51
I bought the CD set on Friday, and I'm bowled over with it.
If the original stereo mix had been as good as this, then there wouldn't have been all the mono/stereo controversy over the years.
Giles Martin properly did his homework, and very successfully managed to incorporate the finer details evident in the mono mix, but not there in the original stereo mix.
The additional material disc is a fascinating insight to the recording sessions.
topoxforddoc
28-05-2017, 10:57
The original stereo mix still sounds great on 15 IPS tape :)
http://i1265.photobucket.com/albums/jj516/topoxforddoc/Sgt%20Peppers%20Side%20A%20label.jpg (http://s1265.photobucket.com/user/topoxforddoc/media/Sgt%20Peppers%20Side%20A%20label.jpg.html)
Haselsh1
28-05-2017, 15:11
Oh wow, I may have to buy this on vinyl.
:thumbsup:
The original stereo mix still sounds great on 15 IPS tape :)
http://i1265.photobucket.com/albums/jj516/topoxforddoc/Sgt%20Peppers%20Side%20A%20label.jpg (http://s1265.photobucket.com/user/topoxforddoc/media/Sgt%20Peppers%20Side%20A%20label.jpg.html)
I doubt I have enough marketable body parts left to be able to afford that.
its deffo a remix. Much more both speakers, which is ideal for headphones as the old one can come more from one often. Its a bit wider too. Its on my wish list. second side is interesting too.
Ive only listened via spotify tho
Is the second disc all music..?
I bought the CD set on Friday, and I'm bowled over with it.
If the original stereo mix had been as good as this, then there wouldn't have been all the mono/stereo controversy over the years.
Giles Martin properly did his homework, and very successfully managed to incorporate the finer details evident in the mono mix, but not there in the original stereo mix.
The additional material disc is a fascinating insight to the recording sessions.
This is all sounding promising then. I think Martin the younger obviously paid attention when his dad was working and has fortunately got the hang of things. The only bit of work I can't forgive him for is "Gnik nus" off the Love album.
I've listened to the Pepper's promo video on Amazon and it does sound pretty good, but there's no telling what's been done to that.
I guess I'll just have to have a punt and see. Here we go again..................
chris@panteg
28-05-2017, 18:19
I bought the vinyl version yesterday, one word of caution regarding the CD version,it appears to have been mastered quite loud with compression.
The vinyl is of excellent quality, quiet and flat, as to how it sounds? Well I've only listened once but the overall stereo balance is far better with some of the effects from the mono version like she's leaving home at the correct speed and so on.
But my initial impression is that the mix sounds overblown especially in the bass which sounds quite wrong to me? I have the recent stereo and mono vinyl to compare, I must say though that the extra disc with the outtakes are great.
Geefresh
28-05-2017, 18:20
I heard Giles being interviewed on Radio 2 and they played a couple of tracks. Bizarrely, they thought it would be a good idea to have a bit of interview inbetween Sgt Peppers... and A Little Help From My Friends, rather than just playing them together then asking the questions - a move that also seemed to irk GM.
The drums are much 'more', as is the bass. That album always sounded quite thin and top end heavy to me, an impression probably somewhat left in my mind by my introduction to it - 80s DMM pressing on a cheap-as-chips, plastic turntable. This remix seems to rectify that; altho it still feels 'wrong' to me, somehow, to have done it. Definitely worth a purchase however.
Once again, tho, this remix and the discussion of the album has led to reviewers saying how Within Without You should've been left off the album. Nonsense! I love that song and I think it's the best sounding track on there.
Stratmangler
28-05-2017, 20:11
One thing that I forgot to mention is that the LP is half speed mastered by Miles Showell.
Bigman80
28-05-2017, 21:17
Funny you should say that. I found the recent stereo remasters to be Bass heavy and not just compared to other Beatles LP's but to all my LPs. I like it though but it does have a bass heavy mix.
chris@panteg
28-05-2017, 23:22
Well the original first pressings were cut bass light to play on the very basic dansette and other record players around in 1967, maybe this is how the recording actually sounds full bandwidth?
Bigman80
29-05-2017, 02:40
Well the original first pressings were cut bass light to play on the very basic dansette and other record players around in 1967, maybe this is how the recording actually sounds full bandwidth?
Thats a good point well made. Bravo Sir!
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Well the original first pressings were cut bass light to play on the very basic dansette and other record players around in 1967, maybe this is how the recording actually sounds full bandwidth?
This is exactly what I was referring to when I said "............have always thought there was a bit more of Sgt. Pepper trying to get out."
There are some great (and simple) bass lines on many of the tracks - Lucy in the Sky especially, but they're too far back in the mix and a bit too muted to do the song full justice. I hope this remix sorts it out.
I've just ordered a vinyl copy - my expectations are high.
chris@panteg
29-05-2017, 07:49
This is exactly what I was referring to when I said "............have always thought there was a bit more of Sgt. Pepper trying to get out."
There are some great (and simple) bass lines on many of the tracks - Lucy in the Sky especially, but they're too far back in the mix and a bit too muted to do the song full justice. I hope this remix sorts it out.
I've just ordered a vinyl copy - my expectations are high.
The quality of the vinyl is superb, listening via my headphones reveals a far superior and coherent mix, no hard panning of vocals and it is more like the mono mix.
Haselsh1
29-05-2017, 12:18
Just been into town and bought it from HMV. Thirty four quid, not bad eh...?
Haselsh1
29-05-2017, 14:29
OK, just played disc 1 as in the original album and I am staggered. The background silence is truly wonderful and the sheer quality amazing. The quality of that Cello and the Violins on 'She's Leaving Home' almost had me in tears. This is the first time I have heard this album in what must be thirty years and Christ what a rediscovery. I am currently reliving all of those memories from my childhood. Gorgeous reissue.
Bigman80
29-05-2017, 14:37
Looks like im about yo buy my
4th copy of this album.
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magiccarpetride
29-05-2017, 17:13
I bought the vinyl version yesterday, one word of caution regarding the CD version,it appears to have been mastered quite loud with compression.
The vinyl is of excellent quality, quiet and flat, as to how it sounds? Well I've only listened once but the overall stereo balance is far better with some of the effects from the mono version like she's leaving home at the correct speed and so on.
But my initial impression is that the mix sounds overblown especially in the bass which sounds quite wrong to me? I have the recent stereo and mono vinyl to compare, I must say though that the extra disc with the outtakes are great.
Haven't purchased the new release yet (we had a big record fair in my neighbourhood yesterday, so I blew all my vinyl budget shopping for rarities and good pressings).
To me, a good copy of stereo Sgt. Pepper's (not remastered, just vanilla) is about as perfect as you can get. Mind you, I never listen to music on headphones, so that may explain why I'm a bit confused when I hear people complaining about the stereo mix of Pepper. My old copy sounds crisp, lively, instruments and voices are leaping out of speakers and jumping at me. Compared to vinyl, Pepper on CD sounds flat and pedantic. I haven't noticed that the bass on the stereo vinyl copy sounds receded, or weak in any way.
But I'm mighty intrigued about the 50th anniversary remix on vinyl. I'll be traveling on vacation next month, which is going to cost me an arm and a leg, so I guess my encounter with the new, better and shinier Pepper will have to wait. Ah, to relive the summer of love!
Haselsh1
29-05-2017, 18:21
LOL... 1967, I was eight years old and we had a Dansette Tempo. Wonderful times listening to the Beatles, the Yardbirds, the Kinks and all of those classics; oh yeah, and Tom Jones.
Had a few listens to it it's very good
The Black Adder
29-05-2017, 19:12
LOL... 1967, I was eight years old and we had a Dansette Tempo. Wonderful times listening to the Beatles, the Yardbirds, the Kinks and all of those classics; oh yeah, and Tom Jones.
Cool... Love all those. I apart from Tom. But he's okay in moderation, lol
Will be getting my copy soon. 😁
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chris@panteg
29-05-2017, 22:02
I did a comparison of within you without you tonight between the new mix and the 2012 stereo remaster.
One thing stood out and it was the sound of the Tabla which was always noted as sounding great on the original recording upfront and leaping out at you with a driving impetus to the song.
On the new mix it sounds more distant and less upfront and doesn't seem to have the same impetus? On the other hand George's vocals being centered have far more clarity and presence on the new mix, other instruments also seem to come to the fore, gains and losses perhaps just my impression, wonder if anyone else has noticed these differences?
My copy is on order from Amazon @ £34.99 and destined to arrive in a day or so.
Amazon have also thrown in a download of the CD version which interestingly has 18 tracks on disc 2, including work in progress versions of Strawberry Fields and Penny Lane. Quality is VBR between about 270 and 300 kbps, so perhaps not too shabby for a freebie. I'm sure I read somewhere that these two tracks came very close to being a part of the Sgt Pepper release but were shuffled off to be put out as a single.
I transferred both discs onto an AK70 and started listening on headphones via an aptX Bluetooth connection which turned out to be the wrong thing to do, sounding a bit bright and overblown. Turning off the Bluetooth and connecting with a cable put things into perspective. The overriding sensation that comes across is a different level of energy and articulation. I'll reserve further views for when the vinyl arrives.
But the thing that really grabbed my attention is the discussion and musical try outs by the band and George Martin as the different takes were being recorded. The Beatles achieved such a high success rate (although not 100%) with their songs that it's all too easy to think that they just walked into the studio and recorded. Not so, when you hear each member's comments and input whilst ideas are being tried out.
Good insight into what went on, along the lines of the Anthology series but a bit more focused on a single work.
Wakefield Turntables
30-05-2017, 11:00
Copy ordered can wait!
chris@panteg
31-05-2017, 09:29
Well after a few more plays of the vinyl, I'm loving it, just takes getting used to, you've never heard lovely Rita meter maid sound so good.
Agree on Rita.
Even on the download it's a standout recording whereas before it was just another "good track". Still waiting for the vinyl.
Come on postie.......
Bigman80
31-05-2017, 19:44
I burned a copy of the HD FLAC files on to CD.
I have to say i am flabbergasted! I had goosebumps all the way through "shes leaving home"
The whole album had an intimacy ive never experienced that with a Beatles album before. The only down side is, i don't think it flows as well as the previous versions but that may be because it sounds so spacious and different. all i know is there will be a copy of the vinyl on its way to my house soon!
Stratmangler
01-06-2017, 20:42
S4fN3vR7_qE
My Sgt Pepper vinyl arrived yesterday. Does it meet the criteria I was looking for when I kicked this off?
1. Quality of the vinyl and how clean / quiet it is?
The vinyl shimmers and is perfectly clean and flat. No suggestion of anything other than careful handling and packaging and it's totally and utterly background silent. No groove noise or rubbing anywhere - seems frictionless.
2. Is it truly re-mixed and if so does it add anything positive?
Well, I now know that the answer to this is yes, a total remix and half speed remaster - but that doesn't tell the story because as we all know some remasters are just horrendous.
This has been done with an empathy towards the original and truly brings out all of the "I wish they could have done that a bit better" or "Why can't those bass lines be a bit more distinct" moments. The mellifluous clarinet that drifts along in the background of "When I'm Sixty-Four" is a sweet little melody in it's own right that can now be more easily picked out - or just left to make it's contribution to the whole. It's so well done that you can choose where to focus.
There isn't a single track on this new version that fails to add another level of detail or awareness. I can't really single any track out - I'd just be repeating the listing.
3. SQ in terms of dynamic range and sound-stage?
Oh yes! Sound is clean, distinct, full of energy yet quietly reflective where it needs to be and doesn't get "shouty" when you turn the wick up. "A Day in the Life" completely fills the room as ever but now has a different level of presence, a feeling of greater inclusion with what's going on.
4. What's the second disc like? Worth the £35 for this alone perhaps?
This is a premium priced album and I don't know how many other titles could get away with it at this price. I doubt it will appeal to anyone other than true devotees of the original but the inclusion of the second disc may just raise the curiosity of those on the fringe of interest. It's not just there to make up the weight - it's a useful, quality entity in it's own right, just for the insight into The Beatles and their song writing at that moment in time.
Worth every single hard earned penny.
(That's what I think, anyway)
The Black Adder
02-06-2017, 07:56
Ordered mine from the official beatles website... No longer in stocking and they won't reply to my emails... Ffs.. What a mess.
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https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B06XZZH7MQ/ref=pe_3187911_185740111_TE_item
Now £31.30 - bugg*r!
The Black Adder
02-06-2017, 19:51
Can anyone recommend the best place to order this?
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or....http://thesoundofvinyl.com/*/*/Sgt-Pepper-s-Lonely-Hearts-Club-Band-Anniversary-Edition/5HPH0000000
The Black Adder
02-06-2017, 20:04
Both are out of stock though 😟
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that was quick.. amazon had it earlier.. Sure they will get it in again. The cd is great
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B06XZZH7MQ/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pd_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=2439TG6D2BOIN&coliid=I37A7LH7654ZNK
amazon say in stock jo
The Black Adder
02-06-2017, 20:19
Oh.. The link comes up as Amazon.com, not co.uk
In stock on the 6th. I suppose that's okay but I can't find that on UK Amazon
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are you using a vpn Jo.. that was a uk link.
The Black Adder
02-06-2017, 20:28
I'm just using my phone...
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odd, Ive got it up on pc and its .uk..... Maybe a vpn service on the phone. I know Opera had on for phones and its taking you to the usa site.. otherwise, no idea. but says here in stock and I can have it delivered tomorrow...im a prime member
Stratmangler
02-06-2017, 21:04
I ordered my vinyl copy from Amazon earlier on today.
It's arriving tomorrow.
£31.30
Just checked, and according to Amazon UK I can order it now, and still expect it to be delivered tomorrow.
I was adamant, after too many disappointing remasters, particularly Aladdin Sane and Ziggy Stardust, I decided not to buy Sgt Pepper, just not willing to blow thirty quid on more disappointment. Anyway, it arrived this morning and was put straight to work, all I can say is wow!, the work that has gone into reworking this is astonishing and has paid off in spades, needless to say I love it.
I have no self control - I bought the big box to get the mono CD, new stereo and 5.1 versions - and I've just pressed the button to get the vinyl, too.
I've done a few comparisons of the new stereo on CD with the 2009 stereo CD - there was a lot of weeping, wailing and gnashing of teeth on the Steve Hoffman forums saying the new mix was loud and hurt their ears. Pish! Balderdash and piffle. The new mix is a revelation - as it was to two pals I played it to on Saturday (on a rather nice DCS/ATC/Ayre/Monitor Audio rig).
My comparisons between the '09 and '17 stereo (mostly conducted through my HD700) have been interesting - the original stereo still has its place. It's hole-in-the-middle stereo is very of its time and seems, on the '09 CD at least, to put lots of space and air into the album. Still nice - and we were all correct In '09 to be thrilled with those CDs. The new one is striking - much more like a modern recording with real stereo spread and, of course, bigger bass. Centred vocals mean it sounds more like other recordings - and I think it's wonderful to have these different views of a wonderful album (alongside the mono of course - which is still hors concours in its way). Its like seeing an old master from a new angle, in a different light. The new one is probably the best way to hear the album in stereo.
The 5.1 is significant, in my opinion - more modern in that it's quite frontal (so not very 'quad' - if you know what I mean) but there's still plenty going on in the rear (especially on the marvellous Within You Without You - some great front-to-rear effects there). It's perhaps not as arresting as 'Love' in surround (one of the best surround albums ever made in my opinion) - but that was probably as much to do with the inventive remixing and cross-fertilisation of the songs. Peppers in surround is well worth hearing if you can.
I knew ultimately it would bug me if I didn't get the vinyl - so I have bought it. I will still have the pleasure long after the price is forgotten. And to think I used to be ambivalent about The Beatles.
Bigman80
05-06-2017, 20:03
I have no self control - I bought the big box to get the mono CD, new stereo and 5.1 versions - and I've just pressed the button to get the vinyl, too.
I've done a few comparisons of the new stereo on CD with the 2009 stereo CD - there was a lot of weeping, wailing and gnashing of teeth on the Steve Hoffman forums saying the new mix was loud and hurt their ears. Pish! Balderdash and piffle. The new mix is a revelation - as it was to two pals I played it to on Saturday (on a rather nice DCS/ATC/Ayre/Monitor Audio rig).
My comparisons between the '09 and '17 stereo (mostly conducted through my HD700) have been interesting - the original stereo still has its place. It's hole-in-the-middle stereo is very of its time and seems, on the '09 CD at least, to put lots of space and air into the album. Still nice - and we were all correct In '09 to be thrilled with those CDs. The new one is striking - much more like a modern recording with real stereo spread and, of course, bigger bass. Centred vocals mean it sounds more like other recordings - and I think it's wonderful to have these different views of a wonderful album (alongside the mono of course - which is still hors concours in its way). Its like seeing an old master from a new angle, in a different light. The new one is probably the best way to hear the album in stereo.
The 5.1 is significant, in my opinion - more modern in that it's quite frontal (so not very 'quad' - if you know what I mean) but there's still plenty going on in the rear (especially on the marvellous Within You Without You - some great front-to-rear effects there). It's perhaps not as arresting as 'Love' in surround (one of the best surround albums ever made in my opinion) - but that was probably as much to do with the inventive remixing and cross-fertilisation of the songs. Peppers in surround is well worth hearing if you can.
I knew ultimately it would bug me if I didn't get the vinyl - so I have bought it. I will still have the pleasure long after the price is forgotten. And to think I used to be ambivalent about The Beatles.
The Beatles have a way of just capturing you dont they lol.
I ordered the vinyl from the sound of vinyl and noticed it was "new stock soon" after I paid lol. Never mind. Im away for ten days so its not the end of the world.
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The Beatles have a way of just capturing you dont they lol.
I ordered the vinyl from the sound of vinyl and noticed it was "new stock soon" after I paid lol. Never mind. Im away for ten days so its not the end of the world.
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I've bought records from them and yep, you've guessed, " new stock coming soon ". Rather annoying they don't mention that until you've paid, gits :punch:
Bigman80
05-06-2017, 21:47
I've bought records from them and yep, you've guessed, " new stock coming soon ". Rather annoying they don't mention that until you've paid, gits :punch:
Haha yes, but to be fair they always deliver and ive never had to send one back for warps or scratches. I have had manufacturer sealed item arrive scratched too from other vendors. Usually get a free download too, which I give away lol
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Amazon must be waiting stock as well, as I am a Prime customer but my delivery is not scheduled until Friday.
Amazon must be waiting stock as well, as I am a Prime customer but my delivery is not scheduled until Friday.
I'm the other end of the country to you and they have them here, frustrating for you but it is worth the wait
I've bought records from them and yep, you've guessed, " new stock coming soon ". Rather annoying they don't mention that until you've paid, gits :punch:
wont take money out until dispatch though.
I tried to cancel the order and they were very difficult about it. I gave up in the end and about five weeks later all six records turned up. As Oliver said the records were in first class order, just a shame it took so long
I have the new vinyl - it's fabulous. Hardly surprisingly it's not the last word in detail/resolution but it's decent enough in this respect. The bass / richness of the sound is well judged, sure it's not modern super tight bass, it's "of the era". The 2nd disc with the extra takes gives great insight into how tracks develop as they tried different approaches. Both discs are super enjoyable to listen to. Loving it.
Haselsh1
06-06-2017, 09:35
I have the new vinyl - it's fabulous. Hardly surprisingly it's not the last word in detail/resolution but it's decent enough in this respect. The bass / richness of the sound is well judged, sure it's not modern super tight bass, it's "of the era". The 2nd disc with the extra takes gives great insight into how tracks develop as they tried different approaches. Both discs are super enjoyable to listen to. Loving it.
Yes, it certainly sounds of its time but compared to a very old version I have it is sublime. I agree too that there are modern vinyl recordings that sound supreme and of exceptional sound quality but then I would expect that to be the case.
Really pleased that you like it, it is such a shame some folk are finding it difficult to get a copy.
Clicking the link in post 31 shows it to be In Stock, price £31.88 & FREE Delivery in the UK
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B06XZZH7MQ/ref=pe_3187911_185740111_TE_item
magiccarpetride
06-06-2017, 18:29
Yes, it certainly sounds of its time but compared to a very old version I have it is sublime. I agree too that there are modern vinyl recordings that sound supreme and of exceptional sound quality but then I would expect that to be the case.
Really pleased that you like it, it is such a shame some folk are finding it difficult to get a copy.
Every record store in my neighbourhood is carrying the double Sgt. Pepper's LP. Not sure why are people finding it difficult to get a copy?
Haselsh1
07-06-2017, 09:48
Every record store in my neighbourhood is carrying the double Sgt. Pepper's LP. Not sure why are people finding it difficult to get a copy?
I have no idea, I just walked into HMV and bought a copy.
magiccarpetride
07-06-2017, 17:17
I have no idea, I just walked into HMV and bought a copy.
Yeah. Even my drug store around the corner is selling the double Sgt. Pepper's LP (and the CD, of course -- the CD is placed in-your-face, sitting at the cash register, fer crying out loud). It seems to be everywhere!
That would be a double roll of toilet paper and while you're at it, wontya fetch me that multicoloured double LP.
Vinyl came today - gorgeous. I didn't really need it, as the CD and BD versions are lovely too, and I have the mono vinyl...
Still, I feel no remorse about indulging in this version.
I'll be listening to it Saturday on B&W 801s biamped with Krell FPB-300s. Colour me excited.
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