Deep Purple Machine Head SACD

Hmmm, must have missed this thread the first time through... I totally agree with Dave! I purchased this SACD because of all of the hype. Although it has more "detail", I find it lacks the warmth of the original vinyl or even the pitiful (but acceptable) sound of the original CD release. I was under-whelmed by the SACD to say the least. If you are interested in purchasing the SACD, please email me. I'm keeping the redbook! Thanks.

 

There are others like me!!

 

Well... I have 5 different versions of Machine Head. The japanese WB pressing, the anniversary edition, Rhino's "Shades" remaster, original LP and the SACD. Haven't heard the DVD-A, but I do prefer the SACD! More detailed, air and not so muddy as the original... either on CD or LP.

 

Just to chime in here, I have every version released UK Purple Stereo, UK Purple Quad, WB Green, WB Quad CD4, Japanese WB CD, EMI remastered CD, DVD-A and SACD (yeah I really like DP). The new SACD played back in Stereo is as close as I've heard to the original UK vinyl (the surround is fun but way to gimmicky for my taste). The SACD multi is the original UK Quad mix. Personally I find the DVD-A vocals to be harsh and I do not like the mix.

 

Not to beat a dead horse, but I agree with Tom, Claus and others who've compared the various releases and found the SACD stereo to be superior. Not to be judgmental, but I don't fathom what Dave & Kevin are hearing; it doesn't appear to be the same SACD I've been lisrtening to. I'm at a loss as to what to attribute the disparities (i.e., it could be anything from room synergy, to type of gear employed, to variations in our hearing, I guess), but to my ears, on my system and in my carefully set-up room environment THIS version of Machine Head rocks BIG TIME. This is the least harsh, most detailed, warmest presentation of the classic album I've heard since I owned the original vinyl back in the early 70's!

Obviously, this won't be the last word on the subject, but it is my honest opinion; other's mileage may vary of course.

Cat