@bkeske
You might be on to something there when you say "I have to wonder if these releases were closer to what Van Gelder captured directly on tape, and cut as that." That could very well be.
I also had to adjust my volume controls up a step as well... but in all honesty, it just made the music come thru louder. It didn't really increase the "presence or the natural energy " that you hear when listening to live jazz in a club.
Nevertheless, I do absolutely agree with you... this is still an excellent release and I am very happy that I have it 😊 We as music lovers should feel very blessed that Tone Poet are doing these reissues, as trying to find NM originals is virtually impossible and can be cost prohibitive for many.
Best wishes,
Don