Sinatra / Reprise Sound Quality: "Sinatra and Strings" (rec. 1961) - incl. NAB/AME EQ, etc.*

Yeah the label reads F-1004. I also think it's a different mix than the original R-1009

 

Since MLutthans is a Gort, I expect nothing but a lifetime ban here but I have to say it. When I feel like to listen to this title, I usually play the MFSL vinyl.

 

This one has an 1E

 

Comparing the mono to the stereo I much prefer the mono! It is MUCH dryer than the stereo although it is still a mixed bag reverbwise. Still sounds fine to me. The stereo at times is drowning in reverb. Very easy to hear the difference if you compare "Rain or shine" or "Misty".

 

Oh, I must add that I'm comparing it to a later stereo re-issue which has an WW3 and WW4 runout
And that version is as wet as a dog after the rain. So compared to this the mono is a blessing for me.
But reading your comments I guess I don't own the original stereo mix.
So I'm not authorized to make any comparison between the original mono/stereo.
Sorry for the confusion!!!

 

My stereo re-issue sounds similar to the suitcase version.

 

Yes, I think the sniff is there. It's during the instrumental outro right?

Well, to make a long story short, I'm glad I got rid of the heavy reverb at last.

Last question:

I have the F1004 mono, the second stereo, and the third stereo (suitcase).
So which mixes am I missing?

 

So my wife, as a birthday gift to me, (probably around the time of this thread's original postings in 2012), bought me a copy of the MFSL vinyl. I just realized that I have never opened it up to play it yet. So, cutting to the chase, from those of you who have heard the MFSL, should I bother or not?

NOTE: The "Sinatra & Strings" album is one of my favorite albums from Frank's REPRISE years and although I have numerous vinyl pressings of it (Mono and Stereo), as well as on CD with the Leather suitcase, the original CD pressing and the EOTC CD pressing, I've yet to hear a version of this album that doesn't sound buried in echo/reverb hell.

 

Thanks Matt! Think I'll pass on the EOTC (though I even think I've got it laying around here from my wife's collection), but I'll have to get me the first stereo mix!

 

Look for an "FS" prefix copy from the mid-60's, mastered/pressed by Columbia vs an "R9" from the independent Reprise era. Much better sound...I prefer the earliest cuts that Columbia did on this.

 

As I said before, I like it.

 

Thanks for the recommendation! Oh my, so I'll have to get TWO more versions, because I need to have a "scrowling Frank" copy, which is not on the FS!

 

You'll also find those variants too on the earliest "FS" era LPs...I'd have to check, but I believe my favorite copy of this is an "FS" with the anxious (or scrowling, as you call it) image of Frank on the labels.

 

Sorry, I meant "scowling Frank"

 

My best "FS" copy has the "happy" Frank on side one and the "anxious" Frank on side two.

 

Well, we all know Mr. S did have his mood swings.

 

Hahaha!!!! Would love to see that copy!