Your favorite versions of Aja and Katy Lied?

As far as Katy Lied goes, there is really no GREAT recording in terms of sonics. The songs, however, are absolutely CLASSIC! The link below is likely old hat for Dan fans but worth a read for those unaware of the issues surrounding the recording of this LP:

Katy Lied

That said, the original vinyl pressing on ABC is still better than the MFSL, or any import, in my opinion.

For CD, I have found the definitive version of Katy to be MCAD 37043 S1E:1 (S1E:1 in the matrix denoting a Steve Hoffman efforts). Also, the recordings of Katy songs on the "Citizen" boxed set are very good.

Same goes for Aja on vinyl, again in my opinion and to my ears. The US MSFL is way too "dark and disturbed" on the bottom end for me and the Japanese pressing is too bright. For CD, the US MSFL is the best I've heard, though I rarely listen to it on this format.

I like the Steely Dan versions of each.

What? No love for the Muzak versions?

The original releases were actually highly regarded in their time. Aja may have been as good sonically as any pop recording ever put out on a major label.

I've owned the MFSL Aja CDs. They were alright. The MFSL Goucho is outstanding. Recently purchased a 2 CD set, Show Biz Kids, essentially a greatest hits compilation. I was surprised at how good these sound. Maybe not MFSL quality but still pretty good. I owned a box set too at one time and thought it could have sounded much better.