Recommendations for really well-recorded music for high-end audio system demo


I’m using my system to give some local high-end audio demos for fun, and although I have a good selection of tracks I can always use more and am sure you guys have some great ones out there.  First and foremost I’m looking for really well-recorded material that shows off what a good system can do — you know, the “wow your friends” tracks we all have, and if it happens to be good/fun music as well that’s a nice bonus although not necessarily a requirement.  I’d recommend listing the artist, album, and track so it’s easier to find the right version, and if you feel like elaborating on anything notable that makes it particularly good for a demo that’d be helpful/interesting but not necessary.  As an example…

  • Patricia Barber, Companion, “Like JT” — Great live jazz club vibe, fun instrumental with excellent imaging/depth/3D soundstage.

Thanks for anything ya got!

soix

Chuck Mangioni ... Children of Sanchez, plays Yamaha flugelhorn (startling dynamics)

Johan Linstead and Nicholas Gunn, particularly well done latino and one of my favourites.

 

IMO, Blu-Ray Audio discs are the best way to show off your your audio system; hi-def streaming is another way.

If you can afford the $$$ box sets that hold hostage the blu-ray discs, you won't be disappointed. Sargent Pepper and Who's Next are but two that come to mind.

Beck's "Guero" and the Led Zeppelin remasters on DVD audio are incredible.

Regular CD's: It's a Beautiful Day, Miles Davis "In a Silent Way", and Peter Gabriel "i/o" are well recorded also.

I like Prince and the Revolution’s “Baby I’m a Star” off the Purple Rain album. It’s the soundtrack to the movie by the same name. The Paisley Park remaster is the way to go. And any format is good. It shows off a system in a number of ways. And at that same note, it’s one we’re after hearing HiRez or a good vinyl setup you can’t go back. This short track is a funky grove with lots of fast symbols. Textured bass that creates a soundstage that expansive and controlled. His voice is strong and fun on this one. It’s super easy to find. Enjoy! 

@simao i agree, I was amazed at how deep and wide the soundstage is on that album.  I’ve heard folks say they heard things from behind them when listening to that album.  I don’t quite have that happening but it does sound like music is coming from the left and right of my chair.