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What's up with lousy bass on classic rock recordings?

Few examples: ACDC Back In Black, Van Halen 1, Boston (1), WHO's Next, Def Leopard Pyromania. 

The low end is almost non-existent. Digital and vinyl. 

It's not my system, I listen to a lot of jazz, other classics like Janis Ian Breaking Silence - bass is rich, full, has slam when appropriate.

Compression? Or were the low frequencies never there? Pretty disappointing. 

macg19
tony1954's avatar
tony1954
1,139 posts
 

@macg19 

I have been frustrated by the same thing, but of course there is nothing you can do to fix it. Unless someone can get hold of the analog tapes and remix everything.

tablejockey
3,959 posts
 

Nonsense!

Responding to VH1, Boston, Who’s Next.

I have those 3 on original pressings and they’re fantastic.

These are LP only listening albums.

VH1 was produced by Ted Templeman who is behind many classic albums.

Boston debut was overseen by Tom Sholz who was an SQ fanatic

Who’s Next-Glyn Johns also has done just about  everyone who’s anyone during the R&R heyday.

secretguy
1,770 posts
 

Lousy bass players.

tablejockey
3,959 posts
 

If you're not hearing rockin bass on Running with the Devil, Smokin and Baba O'riley, you have a lame source recording and or your setup is not dialed in.

And thats WITHOUT ridiculous cables, fuses, tweaky gizmos or other audiophool gadgets.

Bass and drums are in full effect on those tracks.

macg19 OP
962 posts
 

Dude you need the be Smokin someting and maybe listen to some Marley...

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