2. digital
  3. 1316231238

CD mastering a lost art?

Okay, so a lot of my stuff is packed for my move, including vinyl. I have been listening to my digital collection (ripped CDs and downloads). I was thinking how it is interesting how harsh all this music sounds. That "digital" argument.

Then a song from Nine Inch Nails' "Pretty Hate Machine" (Ringfinger) came up (a FLAC rip from the original release..yes 1988.) It sounded amazing. Clear, no harshness..almost analog.

So what's up? Studio tricks from over 20 years ago or has an art-form been lost?
affejunge
mapman's avatar
mapman
22,295 posts
 
Another trend seems to be multiple remasters and remixes of alread popular material in order to broaden the appeal.

A lot easier than coming up with something totally new to get peoples interest.

I think its a good thing though in that it adds more variety and avenues that you can go down when you find something you like. Very practical!
montejay
285 posts
 
Some of my early cds sound better then some of the sacds I have of the same recording. There are some talented people mastering some great stuff these days just as they were 25+ years ago. There are also some hacks that shouldn't touch a recording at all.
Find a great sounding recording and look behind who did the mastering. You will be surprised how often only a few names come up.

Regards,
mapman's avatar
mapman
22,295 posts
 
True that in most professions, especially those involving application of technology, there are usually only a select few that truly excel.
More to discover