What are your go to LP's for evaluating new gear or new tubes?


I have several that I use but Mannheim Steamroller is nearly always in the mix. Does anyone else still listen to them or is it just me?

billpete

I absolutely find things on youtube and have made decisions to buy vinyl or cd's after hearing or seeing a video. Have found a lot that way and some I'm content just to leave on youtube and have a casual listen. The Spoon Lady is kind of fun. Tons more but I get a kick out of her. First found The Civil Wars there (nice vinyl recordings), The Dead South, tons of stuff. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M-hs0FtFGP4&list=OLAK5uy_mZPAqZRHIUWeCJLjC732VZ2dZHRiDMgGQ

 

Check this one out.  The Hunter by Jennifer Warnes.  I've used it and James Taylor's Hourglass as reference material for lots of years.  

1. Miles Davis - Bitches Brew. Japanese promo first pressing.

2. Mahavishnu Orchestra - Inner Mounting Flame. Japanese promo first pressing

3. Al Di Meola - Cielo e Terra. Japanese promo first pressing.

4. Dead Can Dance - Into The Labyrinth. Original UK pressing.

5.Dead Can Dance - Aion. Original UK promo.

I have some Mahavishnu Orchestra. Will have to dig them out. Been awhile.

Was listening to Al Di Meola with a buddy of mine on CD. It's interesting, not my thing but tolerable. It is very well recorded as is a lot of jazz. I just don't listen to it very often. There was a deep synthesized note or sound that had the single strongest impact I've ever heard on a recording. We were listening quite loud and made my buddy and I both smile. 

I'll have to check Oregon, much of this is unfamiliar to me but I'll try anything once. :)