Another Music Direct Catalog observation

simao

... the MD catalog does pay lip service to contemporary artists, but its adherence to a musical paradigm that peaked 45 years ago or so is symptomatic of the undeniable waning of "hi-fi" as a hobby.

The hi-fi hobby isn’t undeniably on the wane. It’s evolving, just as it has from its earliest beginnings when it was very much a DIY pursuit.

In any event, your conclusion assumes that the MD catalog is somehow representative of the hi-fi industry as a whole. That’s quite an assumption.

Lets face it the best music was made during that era. No internet, no cable, no computers, etc. Music was the best way to express and enjoy. Too bad the sound (recording) quality was not better. I think that’s why we keep buying all the "new remastered" versions.
Someday soon all us "old people" and our sacred music will be gone, but history will still remember.

ozzy

@cleeds Right - i wasn't intending to make a sweeping generalization based on one publication (though I know I did). But it's also the offerings in Music Direct and in Stereophile and similar media.

If hi-fi is evolving, it seems the target market isn't.

It also is a problem with younger people actually enjoying the hardware and the hobby as we old farts do.

I can remember making so many speaker cabinets, Heathkit projects along with recordings on reel to reel, 8 track, cassettes, records, cd and now high def. All in the pursuit in the ultimate sound. This emotion and dedication is missing in those that have not experienced the adventure.

ozzy

As probably the oldest fart here, I can assure you, (in my best Gabby Hayes voice) young whippersnappers, that some of the early recordings, even in mono, were really great. :-)

Try the jazz recordings put out in the late 50’s and early 60s on the Contemporary and Pacific Jazz labels. They are excellent. Also, for the classical buffs, try the strings on the Westminister label. For the Exotica guys, try the Command label for percussion.

RCA "Living Stereo," London "Blue Backs," and Mercury "Living Presence" recordings are the icons thanks to HP’s "Absolute Sound" evaluations, but there’s tons more besides those two labels from The Golden Era that will run circles around some of the modern recordings, especially the modern stuff that is drenched in artificial digital reverb.

Frank