Analogue Productions New Doors LA Woman Vinyl Disc


Last week I responded to a post on Audiogon comparing MFSL Ultradisc/1-Step recordings to Analogue Production UHQR recordings (https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/mofi-v-s-uhqr). Initially I thought the reference in this post to a new AP pressing of The Doors LA Women was a reference to the 45rpm release of this disc in 2012 (mastered by Doug Sax and limited to 2,500 pressings). I then reread the information about this new UHQR disc and realized this is a very special reissue of the recording, mastered by Bernie Grundman (cut at 33 1/3 ) and made from the original analog master tapes. Also pressed with extreme care, top quality vinyl and hand inspected for quality. No wonder this is a $125 disc (+tax and shipping). Apparently limited to 4,500 pressings, with each stamper replaced after 1,000 pressings. So last week I ordered the disc before the release date (August 19) and received the disc yesterday (#1170). Played it last night for the first time. To say I was blown away with the SQ would be an understatement, I honestly thought I was listening to a master tape! TT is a Michell Engineering GyroDec with SME IV and Clearaudio Maestro V2 Ebony cartridge. I actually own several AP, and other, master tape copies (2T recorded at 15ips on 1/4 tape), I therefore know how good master tape copies can sound. 

I honestly don’t know how a 53 year old recording can sound this good on a 33 1/3 vinyl disc, simply mind blowing! Surface noise was non existent, dynamic range was outstanding as was frequency response. Overall, the best vinyl pressing I have ever heard. I also own the original AP 45rpm pressing of this recording and intend to compare the two recordings tonight. From what I can remember there is a night and day difference between the two recordings. Also worth mentioning, packaging and associated printed material for the new disc is simply outstanding, as good as it gets IMHO.
mgattmch