Doors: Electric Recording Co. Mono Edition Comparison

[@onsenkuma1979]

I trained some decades ago as an offset printer, s in my opinion there is simply no comparing a mass-produced digital scan (however high the resolution) to the quality of four-colour printing that can be achieved with a Heidelberg printing press. It's impressive that ERC goes to these lengths. That jacket would have a characteristic feel and scent (printer's ink on high quality card stock) that would add that much more to the rich experience of listening to an AAA pressing produced with this level of care. Now, imagine what could have been accomplished if the multitrack master tapes still existed and could have been used for this...

[@audiophileman7047]

Good comment, but if you're interested in how this great album sounds when it was made with fresh tape, listen to the 1967 original issue Monarch pressing. It's terrific.

[@onsenkuma1979]

@@audiophileman7047 That would b great to hear. No doubt: the 'younger' the recording/tape, the better will be the sound. I had an orignal pressing of 'Strange Days' in early '68 but didn't own a new copy of the first album until summer '69. Of course what I didn't have as a kid was a decent turntable and cartridge!

[@audiophileman7047]

@@onsenkuma1979 There are other factors like the mastering and the actual pressing process, but they got it right on the Monarch pressing. Monarch was a pressing plant in L.A. where The Doors recorded the music, so maybe they had access to the master tapes. It is not the first pressing, but it's early. Finding a NM copy of the album is tough. Even my VG+ copy sounds great. Instruments sound more detailed, and there is good balance among the instruments and the vocals.

[@onsenkuma1979]

@@audiophileman7047 I've seen references to Monarch on Hoffman threads and here in the KZbin VC. For all I know I mght have had some of these in th late '60s or '70s. I certainly didn't know then what I know now about these things. One of the earliest Doors pressings I have is a mint German copy of 'Weird Scenes Inside the Gold Mine' from maybe '72 or '73. This sounds quite nice. I bought the AP box sets (vinyl and SACD) as pre-orders some years back. I'm not crazy about 45 rpm for these, but it's worth it to hear 'The End' or 'Riders On The Storm' in that format...

[@audiophileman7047]

@@onsenkuma1979 I'm not a big fan of the 45 rpm format as well. Having to flip the record so often takes some of the continuity away. I don't have all of The Doors AP/QRP 45's, but of the four I have Morrison Hotel just kicks butt the best. Not to say the others aren't great too. I need Waiting For The Sun and The Soft Parade to finish the set. A big part of the reason The Doors 45's are so good is that Doug Sax, the great sound engineer ever (my opinion) mastered them through TML with all hollow state electronics. You're not going to get much better with the source material he had to work with. The Doors debut 45 rpm AP/QRP reissue is great and is well worth having.

[@ghostdancer58]

There is a big difference between a music lover and a record collector.

[@itsvladzino3246]

Not necessarily

[@danmartinez5502]

Being an Audiophile that collects vinyl can cause issues. It's a DNA thing.

[@drazenbabich]

@ghostdancer58 Ditto.

[@saint6563]

Music Lovers collect music & collectors collect music. Plus he liked the details of the midrange of the more expensive/rarer issue. So not just for collecting.

[@AllThingsProg]

To be honest, Hoffman and Esposito's reviews/opinion make more sense when you consider the fact that Analogue Productions only reissued the stereo version of this album (and not mono). Chad is one person you can count on to never release sub par pressings. I guess the mono versions of this album have never sounded great.

[@whym1014]

That doesn't necessarily indicate anything. Audiophile labels usually ignore mono if a stereo version is available

[@JBLClassic]

Listened to it 3 times in a row last night. There is nothing wrong with it.

[@owlnswan4016]

The Doors made really good stereo mixes, by and large, of their material. Their catalog is among the best produced and engineered rock/pop recordings of the era. I hold Bruce Botnick in very high regard. I don't really care if something is mono or stereo when there is a choice based on format - I want the mix on that particular recording I like best. If all else is equal between a mono and stereo mix of something, I would easily then say I want the stereo, but that rarely happened.

[@davidlg0478]

​@@JBLClassic So are you saying its a crystal clear recording with no background noise which at a minimum it should be for a 500 dollar purchase?

[@JBLClassic]

@@davidlg0478 I’m saying I’ve played it 5 times now and thoroughly enjoyed it. None of those noise issues were noticeable to me, but I’ll listen for a 6th time and see.

[@jroc2427]

Michael…go watch Michael at In Groove review on this and come back with a follow up. Even better would be tor you both to do a video or live chat discussing opinions of this release.

[@davidlg0478]

Totally agree. I follow both channels and would like to see a head to head discussion. I think Mike Esposito would be up for it but not sure about this Michael

[@Digginbehindthedikes]

Mike E should review the audio and Mike 45 the sleeves, printwork etc....oh wait that's already the case. Nevermind

[@georgpoensgen3217]

Wie können 2 Experten mit der Meinung derartig auseinander liegen? Das ist ja nicht zu fassen. Was denn nun? Der eine hat es ja sogar total verrissen!? Sehr sehr merkwürdig.

[@chrissmate]

When you spend so much money on one album you want to like it. 😉 That’s all.

[@davidlg0478]

This is an issue , you are correct. It's human nature when paying well over the top to want to praise it.

[@manolokonosko2868]

You force yourself to like it because the alternative is to cry over the money you’ve lost on this piece of shit.

[@davidlg0478]

You need to look at the In Groove review of this ERC album. He called this pressing an abomination and Steve Hoffmann of the Forum agrees with that. So it's surprising you did not call out any defects here. For such an expensive album it should sound perfect. I would welcome your response to the other reviews.

[@jacobusb4620]

Failure to call out (or notice?) the issues with the mono edition of this album considerably discredits his opinion on any other album.

[@CharlieMessing]

@@jacobusb4620 What is the problem with the "abomination"? What is "perfect"? Also - one opinion does not have to invalidate another. Would you like to be judged on one bad decision? I don't think anyone is perfect, but I enjoy this man's opinions and his ability to both discern and express them. He thinks a lot like I do. Perfection, for an audiophile, is close to attainable. I am going to go seek out Mr. Hoffman's assessment of the Doors mono version of which you speak!

[@davidlg0478]

​@Charlie Messing The problem is that this is advertised as an audiophile channel and unless the sound of a 500 dollar record is perfect, it should be called out. Its not his opinion that is relevant but a statement about the actual sound quality.

[@SayHelloToJonny]

@@davidlg0478I agree with you. Mike In Groove’s assessment was more like a technical evaluation and if the master that was used was beyond saving, it shouldn’t have been used. Simple. Mike even said that the digitised versions fixed some of those issues, so a record using a digitally fixed source might sound better and for less than a tenth of the price. Nuts. Also…kinda funny/sad.

[@manolokonosko2868]

I was just about to write that. Thank you.

[@dcfitz75]

Some were sold on the official Doors Website for $350. Unfortunately they went fast, so I paid the $500. My LP sounds amazing (#280's). I agree, the vocals are the highlight. I have the usual other LP's, fairly good system (Top Krell, Sonus Faber, VPI...). And, I have no ulterior motive. I'm not selling this copy, don't own a record store, don't make money on KZbin. Below is lifted directly from the Doors Website: "About the master tapes used on the ERC cut. This mono master marked LEDO (a term coined by Jac Holzman and used exclusively by Elektra and its associated labels) is the exact tape that was used to cut lacquers for the original 1967 US pressing as confirmed by Bruce Botnick. LEDO stands for Leadered, Edited, Duplicate of the Original; 1. Leadered Master = Master mix takes leadered. 2. Edited = All of the Master mixes Sequenced and Edited together to form an album. 3. Duplicate = A Mono or Stereo Mix Master from a multitrack, in this case a 4 track. 4. Original = Multitrack or Mono or Stereo session master"

[@TheAgeOfAnalog]

I purchased the entire AP set of 45rpm Doors albums last year and couldn't be happier with them. That said, I'd still love to hear one of these someday.

[@donstefano4785]

I prefer the Analogue Production Version 👍

[@JBLClassic]

You put it well. I was trying to think of how I experienced it, and you nailed it. I sat off axis, since my wife was in the main chair. I was still able to fully appreciate it, probably due to the extreme separation of instruments and vocals. I was going back this morning and really focusing on individual details as I heard them. I think it’s pretty amazing.

[@danmartinez5502]

Wasn't the ERC pressed from a damaged tape? Some are saying that

[@davidlg0478]

From a damaged copy tape as the original has gone missing

[@vinyl_buzz]

I recently found a 1967 mono copy at a thrift store. Great review!

[@MJP3055]

Listen to the InGroove review of this title.

[@gerygee6366]

Thx Michael for this really great comparison. I will get mine tomorrow. Can‘t wait to put it on my player. Was really crazy how fast it was sold out. Cheers

[@thoronmetal108]

Beautiful video. Thank you for this expertly explained method of ERC…fantastic. Great analysis.

[@SafeAndSoundTXAudioExcursion]

It would seem the evolving tape wear of this album, which has been noted over time, would be even more audible on this ERC pressing. Yet you make no reference to any audible dropouts or abnormalities in that regard. I certainly would like a comparison to a mono OG of this when the tape was at its best. Overall, the mono version of the LP has never been heralded as a strong recording.

[@canjo7301]

Unfortunately in my opinion the mono recording of this tape was never stellar. I bought both the stereo and mono albums in the early 70's and the mono sounded dull and lifeless compared to the stereo and the stereo was not really spectacular. My system at the time was above average...

[@jasonelkins6582]

Great video and a much different perspective than what other people are saying about this release (See comments below). For me I love the VMP Bernie cut for the wide sound stage and more air and separation in the mix for me which I love. Of course my system is far different than yours but its a very enjoyable mix which you did call out. My opinion I am happy with the VMP and the 36.00 USD cost verses a 500 US price. I always enjoy hearing your input and feedback. Thanks

[@neutrino182]

If ERC are using a LEADO than their version has also been EQed, just not by them. I assume that’s the reason they can cut this particular title flat. Is that right or am I missing something?

[@davidlg0478]

You won't get a reply , this channel never replies to queries, which is a pity and devalues the reviews.

[@awrogers3013]

You are risking your audience Mike

[@Michael45RPM]

why not make a 4th 5th and 6th comment rogers?

[@Jazzeum]

How is he risking his audience?

[@BigSky1]

I have a 1st UK fully laminated front and back in Mono.

[@danaeloucaidou4991]

Love it that you called the sound "amazing" and Mike called it "shit"...it cant be both. Obviously its opinions however this is a Euro500 LP. I can not imagibe how an LP that can be worth 500 euros. This is the music equivalent of a versace dress - by limiting the supply to 450 copies you drive the price up. Its NOT about the music anymore its about some rich guy thinking he has a unique copy. Thats Mikes beef and its mine too.

[@JBLClassic]

Mike E is nothing but a braggart who thinks he knows everything. He clearly has an agenda with this one and I find his comments on it useless.

[@timkimware3537]

An LP’s, or anything else’s, worth is based only what people are willing to pay for it. Supply & demand… How many want it and what are they willing for it. And the number of copies pressed is very likely based on restrictions placed by the record company that owns the masters. For many, this pressing IS about the music. ERC schtick is to replicate the master tapes as authentically as possible. Previous re-presses of this LP are compromised by trying to “fix” the flaws in the master tape. I, like many others, love hearing it warts & all, with zero attempt to improve it. If this ain’t your thing, don’t buy the record. I find it very odd that you cannot imagine how an LP could be worth £350.

[@danaeloucaidou4991]

@@timkimware3537 Are you saying to me that a record comoany will give you the master but will restrict you to 300-400 copies? That is BS. It is an artificial restriction to make it appear unique. A record company giving you a master could restrict you to a few thousands (see recent UHQR Marley Estate) but NOT 300-400 copies. I dont need a lecture in economics and marketing - I know how the world works. 300 copies IS NOT about the music. How can it be about the music when 300 people only can hear it?

[@timkimware3537]

@@danaeloucaidou4991 Neither of us knows why they were limited to 450 copies; that could certainly been a condition of the licensing, or the condition of the LEDO master, or something else of which neither of us is aware. You assume the worst about Phil Vernol, the owner of ERC and a super-passionate music lover, and I trust his reasoning. So we can just leave it there. If you don’t like or trust ERC, then don’t bother with ‘em.

[@danaeloucaidou4991]

@@timkimware3537 Have they issued any other record in more than 400 copies? No. Its a model for the few only. I get it. Its the vinyl equivanent of a versace dress. You bet your sweet life I wont bother. Good day

[@Andy-rc9db]

I’d heard needledrops of Break on Through and Alabama Song from the ERC, but held off commenting here because a needledrop cannot be considered definitive. However, I live in the UK and have now had opportunity to listen to the ERC in person on a higher end system. I am, therefore, now able to say that the ERC is jawdropping. In all the wrong ways. This is a record cut from a severely defective tape. Break On Through is weirdly unpleasant with the sound undulating like it is being run through a phase peddle (guitarists will know what I mean). I believe this to be a result of degradation of the tape. Alabama Song, however, takes ‘defective’ to a new level. Throughout that track there is a recurring screeching sound - which makes me wonder if there was some issue with the actual cutting? This is reproduced on the needledrops - and so it is not isolated to the record to which I listened. These two tracks apart, the SQ of the record, overall, is poor. There are drop outs across both sides, significant distortion on the vocals - largely throughout - and on the organ in places (including, sadly, Light My Fire). It is generally a poor listen, and, in places, I’d argue it is unlistenable. We shot it out against the VMP copy and, really, there is no comparison. The VMP has utilised digital trickery to fix some of the degradation issues and tame the distortion - it’s not optimal, but it is more than acceptable. The AP 45 (stereo) is still my go to, but the VMP is about as a good as a reissue in mono is going to get. The tape, putting it bluntly, is clearly ********. So then, my question is why does the reviewer mention none of this? Is it because he cannot hear conspicuous and glaring issues (by which I mean defects) which are audible even via a needledrop? Or is because he is compromised in some way? Did he pay money for the ERC or was it gifted to him? Does he have access or connections to ERC? I really don’t like to cast aspersions, but it is baffling. I know he has a higher end system and so the idea that he cannot hear these issues is unlikely. If he is hearing impaired in someway, I offer an unreserved apology. But he probably should add that as a disclaimer as part of his reviews. Whatever the reason, he cannot be trusted. And, sadly, neither can ERC. The fact that they would issue this without clearly describing the defects in advance (as per Sam Records, for example) is inexcusable. In all honesty, this record should never have been issued full stop. It’s not a historical artefact because that artefact (the tape) is now ******. It’s dead. It’s gone. The only remaining historical artefact, therefore, is the OG mono pressing - which, in and of itself, has issues. Even the VMP, as well done as it is, is no more than a reconstruction of that historical artefact. All in all, I find this review very disappointing, but the fact that ERC issued this, more so. Nice jacket though, I’ll give ‘em that. Though that does prompt the thought that ERC is, perhaps, all fur coat and no knickers.

[@Boudas72]

ERC version. VMP version. AP 45rpm version. We really "break on through to the other side" of what music really means. All of us.

[@harrysmusicroom]

Didn't Coherent us all valve system on the Kirsten Edkins release? How does ERC differ from Coherent? Other than $250 more or so.

[@CharlieMessing]

Not only is Coherarent all-analog, that album was also recorded there (the first on his own label). Kevin and his all-analogue studio have my vote (if elections are held). I wonder what the differences would be between two versions of the same album - one ERC and one from Cohearent? At least Kevin's albums are priced for people, rather than as audiophile, for audiophiles only (and the first 500 people to become aware of a new release)!

[@popofthebop]

I have The Doors VMP and the RSD mono reissues and found them to sound similar as played with an Ortofon 2M Mono cart, though VMPs jacket and inner sleeve are of much higher quality, plus get a bonus 7" in a picture sleeve. I'm in the camp of thinking the ERC pressings and prices are a bit of madness, but as always it's the individual collectors money to do with what they will. I also have the stereo AP 45 rpm pressing which is fine indeed, but IMHO the Steve Hoffman mastered DCC CD beats it. That CD really is remarkable, and shows just how great the format can be. Sadly most record companies were never interested in taking the CD technology to its fullest potential.

[@thomascars1]

Think the DCC CD crushes it? Have you heard the DCC vinyl? It is absolutely mind blowing and is the only copy of this album anyone will ever need in their lifetime

[@mattmcgourty7971]

I just started getting deep into CDs and heard great things about DCC pressings. I just ordered the Beach Boys Pet Sounds because of that

[@slistone1940]

Just heard In Groove Mike’s review. It’s hard to believe you two were listening to the same pressing. He hated it. Apparently Hoffman says the source tape they used is crap.

[@JBLClassic]

Hoffmann has put out some great stuff, but he can also be a know it all jerk. Regardless of what those two say, it sounds incredible.

[@georgpoensgen3217]

Unbelievable. Esposito paid his copy, He is total passend off 🤣

[@myles7522]

Love it when Two KZbinrs have differing opinions on the same album 👍👏

[@CharlieMessing]

Opinions are our own truth. Anyone saying they are being totally objective is not, but if it comforts them to think so, may they be so comforted.

[@Dafalex22]

@@CharlieMessing ABSOLUTELY the most acute comment on music perspective.

[@CharlieMessing]

@@Dafalex22 Thank you!

[@1009614162]

Thanks Michael for the review! Didn’t manage to get one, but will try to get an AP 45RPM where possible :)

[@alwaysexpandinghorizons6173]

With all appreciation and respect for your person and all that you have set up in the last weeks for us, your followers. Especially the OG Club and the cheaper possibility to buy Acoustic Sounds products in Europe. Hats off for this commitment. But I just can't take you seriously when it comes to judging music and sound quality in particular. You are simply so wrong in so many cases that my suspicions are confirmed. For the most part, you only reproduce content that you have read up on shortly beforehand. And you buy what other people like or what is hip at the moment. In my opinion, you are a bored collector who spends a lot of time at home and has made it his business to own a big collection and to talk about music when he should not. I'm always surprised at the confidence with which you talk about things you don't understand. It's also a gift, judging by the number of your followers and their passionate devotion to your channel. I will continue to follow your channel because I'm interested in the preorders and what path you continue to take. Of course, this is all just my strictly subjective perception ;-))

[@big_burly_bro]

I have an absolutely pristine '68 Japanese pressing of "The Golden Album." I'd be curious to hear them back to back.

[@Jazzeum]

Thanks for the review. I’m glad that VMP re-issued the album and would have loved to hear the ERC one. As good as this album is, I think Strange Days is better. It’s also one of my favorite albums of all time. Do you have the AP version and, if so, do you like it?

[@vbathory3757]

Esposito said he would pay for Botnick to make a mono mix from the stereo tapes. So not only would Botnick be paid, but he would be giving the world a proper sounding mono mix that should’ve been done back in 1967. Honestly, what more incentive is needed to make this happen?

[@CharlieMessing]

That would be interesting to hear!

[@garymcketo6941]

I'm Confused Michael, I just finished watching the review from the 'In' Groove and Mike said this album is Garbage and not to waste your money on it. Why is there such difference in opinion from two of what I consider as experts on the topic? I like to review your videos, as well as other reviewers before I decide to make a purchase, but now I'll have to do a little more homework. Overall what all of you reviewers do is a great service to the music community, Keep up the great work. Thank You from all of us fans!!!

[@Digginbehindthedikes]

To be honest, there's no real indepth review of the actual sound itself here.

[@davidlg0478]

@M B I agree. Its a superficial review about what mood you are in when listening to it.

[@vinylrulesok8470]

Cue the conspiracy theories about Mike Espinosa being on a mission to discredit ERC

[@Digginbehindthedikes]

​@@davidlg0478 👍

[@Dafalex22]

@@Digginbehindthedikes BRAVO!!

[@dmichaelelkins1]

Wow, what a difference from the review of Mike from The In Groove!

[@MrJasonMeans]

Thank you, Michael, for yet another great ERC review. Not many people will call out the embossed inner sleeve, something that stood out to me also. The roughness and warmth combined made me to a double and triple take. I honestly thought it felt was a little distorted (his voice on track 1 side A), until I turned the volume up. Then it came alive. Super weird, I'm finally all tube, so I do not know if that is normal.

[@brianlewis5042]

I would have love to have this release. The problem is how quickly the ERC releases sells out. I would definitely pay the price for one. Congrats on your acquisition. I will live and listen vicariously through your video. Lol

[@MrJasonMeans]

It would be interesting to see it compared to the US first press mono. Maybe… if it used the other tape that was destroyed..?

[@SC-29229]

I've listened to this record twice now over two days, and I am very disappointed. It sounds terrible, just terrible. My copy is going to be on sale soon.

[@tiborosz1825]

But but but its anal oooooog. It has to sound amaaaaassiiing.

[@12stringblues]

How does this compare to an original Mono Pressing?

[@Michael45RPM]

i dont have the OG

[@londonrecordlover965]

That would be the most interesting comparison for this release as it is trying to be an exact replica of the original. So the measure of the success of the ERC release is how it stacks up against an original.

[@thebiffer100]

When I went on the ERC website as you say it was GONE within 30 minutes or less. Maybe less?

[@67Pepper]

2:15 It's cut from a copy of the copy tape? 3rd generation? Not great at Maths. I have an OG Mono pressing, bought it for $1- about 20 years ago.

[@Malinois2812]

Curious about the new UHQR!

[@danielwalsh7538]

Not sure what’s going on ,if you go to the ingroove review Mike absolutely slates this mono says it’s shit as the tapes are crap

[@tiborosz1825]

Mike is not an analog purist. If its anslog and sounds like shit..its shit.

[@tiborosz1825]

Let me guess..the reason you love it is because ots not digital no matter how much it sounds bad.

[@playitstrange129]

it sounds like youre trying to justify to yourself for spending so much money on a record, mate...

[@thomascars1]

With all due respect sir, I heard a copy and it was absolutely horrible. Ray’s keyboard partially sounded like it was dunked under water, taken out and then played while its still slightly wet. Also Densmore’s drums are extremely distorted

[@JBLClassic]

That’s interesting, because I didn’t hear anything even close to that.

[@canjo7301]

@@JBLClassic Just curious as to what components are in your vinyl playback system? No deep seeded meaning intended,

[@JBLClassic]

@@canjo7301 JBL, NAD and Rega. Mid fi, but I know it well and it’s more than capable.

[@canjo7301]

@@JBLClassic Thanks for the reply. You hit the key point about knowing your system well. I chased the "grail" for over 35 years and never found it (The grail is a total myth). I am now totally about the music, all of my super esoteric equipment is long gone.

[@JBLClassic]

@@canjo7301 same story here. I can fully enjoy it now.

[@mr.george7687]

I'm hoping all tube valve mastering becomes the norm!

[@CharlieMessing]

I doubt it, but it's a nice thought! Have you seen the new Candid reissues? Wow - cheap as any, but AAA pressed by Bernie Grundman.

[@HoomanR17]

Michael, I hope you would consider a followup Part 2 review when you get a Mono OG of this record. I don't believe you've ever done an A/B comparison between an ERC and an OG.. When the cost of an ERC is similar or higher than a NM/OG, makes one wonder how close the ERCs, comes to the OG other than a quieter vinyl and whether its worth the investment,. In this case the different may well be startling because while the ERC was done on a tube system, it was done off of an old copy of the master and who knows what else happened differently between 1967 and now. I don't know whether this was originally done on a tube system or not given that it was released during the period where transistors were introduced. .Analog productions, or VMP whether cut by KPG or BG will not sound anything like the OGs (for this or any other records prior to the 60's) mainly because they are going to be mastered using transistorized systems so they will always sound "different' and have their typical "crisp", "audiophile" , "etched", sound, but only the ERC version in comparison to the OG will give us a hint about how close this type of a system can get to the OGs of that era and whether they are truly worth it..

[@analoguecity3454]

In my opinion "stereo" is better than "mono", unless the stereo is a "pan-&-scan" type stereo! Then I would chose the mono! But why not have both?! Best of both worlds!

[@BC-fy1wn]

Did you listen to the Mono on a Mono cartridge ?And the Stereo on a Stereo Cartridge?Just curious. Doc BC

[@Michael45RPM]

not yet.. i am working on it :-)

[@Daniel-hk3ru]

Such a fan of The Doors material and it seems to gain strength as times move forward. Totally agree Mono vs Stereo depends totally on the mood and that is a great option. As always great information and review !

[@georg2935]

haha mike from the in groove says that the erc release sounds like shit. funny how different opinions are 😅

[@zundap100]

German reissue ELK 42012 (74007) LC0192 from 1983 is the best reissue of this classic the Doors album that I know. The sound is fresh, very crisp and I am shure that the audiophiles would like it.

[@drwinstonoboogie4349]

Stunning Michael I bet it puts my standard reissue to shame lol

[@davidlg0478]

I bet it doesn't!!😀

[@CharlieMessing]

Hello Michael, Wonderful video comparison, great as usual - thorough - both subjective and objective. I do not know if I've ever heard a mono version, but now I'm going to look for one! More Important (and something no one else will say) is that I saw The Doors in concert at the Fillmore East and at Winterland in SF, both in 1967. [I could send a more detailed review privately, there's no room here.] I just wanted to say that none of their albums can convey the live experience - moreso than with most bands, perhaps. For example: in "Alabama Song," the organ plays on the "2" and the "4" with nothing in-between. On the album, compression dictates variance in volume, but live - when the organ hand came down on that minor chord, it was thunderously loud, and when he picked his hand up inbetween, the amp was silent. You cannot get that kind of dynamic on a record,, and it was part of what made The Doors sound so great (aside from the keyboard bass, which dictated many of the rhythm patterns). Great live band. I do look forward to hearing one of these new versions - whichever I can afford to find. Thanks again so much for your attention to detail and being articulate. We appreciate you. If I lived across the sea, I could avoid the almost unbelievable international postage rates we have... oh well. We want what we want, and we take what we can get! My best to you, Charlie

[@manolokonosko2868]

No album made from a defective and EQd copy of a tape is worth $500 or even $50. That’s a $15 LP tops!

[@gringoloco4]

Check out the In Groove’s review of this. 😂

[@liammolyneuxmusic]

What a beauty,a fantastic title by ERC . Thx for explaining the ERC process Michael which is important to know. Great analysis Michael. It sounds like ERC don’t mess with anything,which presents as close to the tape as possible. So it’s a bit raw & yet the warmth of analogue comes through.A true one off sounding version. The whole package of ERC is a thing of beauty,that deep Groove & attention to detail is remarkable. One thing to mention is what an amazing debut album & secondly when Break on thru bursts through what an incredible opening track. It tells you immediately what The Doors are about .In closing ERC MONO is a perfect partner with the Analogue Productions 45rpm stereo .Very hard to compare It’s like Sgt pepper mono & stereo ,wonderful to have the two , Michael until next time, Cool video 🫡

[@Michael45RPM]

right this is really important to say Liam! What a debut!!!!1

[@audiophileman7047]

Have you heard the original Monarch pressing? It is absolutely terrific! 😻 I don't like ERC's small batch release concept. I'd bet you my paycheck that most of those ERC records were purchased by investors rather than people like us who recognize and appreciate the artistic achievement of The Doors' debut album. I must agree with your comment about the Break On Through song and how it is the beginning of something extraordinary as we journey through the "labyrinth" of this monumental album. 👍👍👍

[@Vinylfromtheunderground]

My clean original monarch mono is my favorite that I have heard and that includes what you presented here Michael. It’s not even a fair fight anyway. All analog originals tend to slap reissues anyway

[@67Pepper]

I have an OG Monarch pressing too, with the label misprint OHER side instead of "Other Side" I also have a DCC Stereo pressing which is very good, in Mint condition.

[@clumsiloe]

I have no interest in buying records from ERC as I simply cannot afford them. However, I do know that Mike In Groove has a long-standing beef with ERC, but it’s entertaining to watch him chuck his toys from the pram. But we are talking about two people having an opinion which is opposite, which is fine, it is possible. People disagree and that makes the world go around. Both have different ears, different rooms and different gear. They’ll be sensitive to different things… it is too much to expect that they would just agree. Why can’t people just live with the fact that people can have different views about a highly subjective matter. The record is sold out anyway, it’s not as it I could buy one even if I have the money.

[@Michael45RPM]

great points, thx for being objective

[@JamesTurner-bd2yk]

@@DavysFlicks Exactly. Anyone saying "we all have opinions" is ignorant or making excuses. Some things are demonstrably bad.

[@awrogers3013]

And almost 60 years old..it’s insane

[@mikeh7262]

Mike from the In Groove gave a ass whipping of this version. Is it because you need a tube amp to play this record. I know he has a Mcintosh system but is it tube?

[@canjo7301]

I do not believe he uses McIntosh equipment any longer. I know he upgraded the whole system when he got the big Wilson's.

[@markwallis1454]

He has an all tube system VTL pre and VTL Siegfried power amps

[@audiophileman7047]

Thank you for a great review of one of the finest rock albums to ever be recorded and released. 👍👍👍 After Pink Floyd The Wall, The Doors self-titled album is my second favorite rock album of all time. I'm not a fan of ERC's small batch releases due their very limited numbers that very likely motivate investors to buy them over audiophiles who buy them to be appreciated. What would have been the cat's meow 😻 and totally hypnotic is if you had done a track by track comparison of the original Monarch pressing, the AP/QRP 45 rpm pressing, and the ERC pressing. Yes, this album is that important and deserves such an in-depth review. 👍💖🎸😎

[@CharlieMessing]

When Rolling Stone did one of those "100 best rock and roll albums of all time" surveys/lists, The Doors 1st came in at #25. Ray Manzarek called Jann Wenner, the editor - the only one of the artists to call - and he said, "You found 24 albums that were better than The Doors!?????"

[@audiophileman7047]

@@CharlieMessing Ray certainly did get that right! I'm glad that he spoke up about it. Who knows what criteria they use to determine if an album should be on their list? If Pink Floyd The Wall was put ahead of The Doors 1st, I'd have to agree, but nothing else. The Beatles always seem to get the top spots. Their list suggests a lot of personal opinion. The thing to remember is that these lists are often more about popularity and magazine sales than artistic merit. Do you think they'd lose magazine sales if the legions of Beatles fans get upset with them over their list? The Grammy's are another ridiculous organization for a lot of the awards they give. The Rock-n-Roll Hall of Fame is another one. There are great artists like Link Wray who should be in the Hall and get passed over every year.

[@SwingingCreeper]

So does “Break on Through” & “Light My Fire” play at the correct speed?

[@jerryandlisa27]

You are the first reviewer that liked this record , the tape was very old and defective according to tother reviews. The diffrence may be your all tube analog play back. Steve Huffman said record sounds like shiiit.

[@JBLClassic]

As a non reviewer, long time audiophile, I think it sounds phenomenal. I don’t care what Hoffmann or ingroob say.

[@chripoo]

The prices between the The Electric Recording Co. and the Vinyl Me, Please. issues of the doors are beyond comparison. No way I am goin to spend over 700 dollars for a record, but for 60 dollars I will give it a try.

[@jbsaudio]

The Analogue Productions 45 of The Doors Debut album sounds great and is faithful to what most of us remember who first listened to the album on vinyl in the 1970s and 1980s. I've never heard the mono version, largely due to the fact that the mono LP was withdrawn not long after its original release and remained unavailable until in or around 1999. To appreciate a mono LP's advantages over stereo, you really need a turntable set up with a good mono cartridge. Listening to a mono LP on a stereo turntable and flipping the switch on your preamp to mono isn't really the same thing as hearing it with a mono cartridge. If you don't have an extra arm with a mono cartridge, I don't think it's worth it to invest in an expensive mono reissue if a good sounding stereo LP is available. The AP 45 is better than good.

[@vinylrulesok8470]

I always really enjoy your videos Michael and you have inspired me to buy many records but I am afraid I am firmly in the 'In Groove' camp whe it comes to ERC. The jacket looks nowhere near as good as the Analogue Productions 2x45 release and wasn't that release mastered from original master tape on an all valve system and overseen by Bruce Botnick? That was also a double 45 release and cost way less than the ERC are charging. To my mind, the price is driven by the inexplicably low volume of 450 which means most mere mortals won't be able to afford a copy or won't be fortunate to be quick enough to secure a copy. It may sound great but I really question if the product justifies the price. Anyway, just my opinion, everyone has one haha!!! Thanks for making great videos Michael.

[@simonemurray1345]

I've heard very believable rumors that id bet my life are true that ERC saves copies for their old clients and youtubers. This is why in the comments, those who score are always the same exact big collectors or channel owners. They never miss out. When if it wasn't allotted then most of them would miss out here and there since they sell out in seconds. They get every drop as normal folks are lucky to get 1 out of years of trying. I've answered the emails immediately with super fast internet for the past 2 years and only ended up able to buy 1 unpopular release. It's understandable this happens with everything. But due to the limited nature and the growing number of VIPs, half the stock is sold before its posted. I was there immediately at launch and these sold out in seconds because many are already accounted for. When it should take atleast an hour for almost 500 copies at almost $400 to sell. Even uhqrs don't sell that quick at a fraction of the price. It's fine for them to do this, but they need to up the copies aince it's becoming an elite luxury only afforded to members of the ERC club, unless you're willing to spend $700+. It's one thing to have a luxury item cost alot due to being limited. It's another thing to have a nepotistic old boys club afforded all releases when others can't even get one. ERC has turned into Rolex, where you only get onto the special list by spending $100,000s on watches or have a friend in the know. It's like the freemasons of vinyl, where you only get in by being a friend, a big channel, or bought from them since they started before demand was high. Thus creariny an exclusive group who get every single release, making thousands of dollars for doing nothing. Go look at the comments of every erc video Michael does. It's always the same exact people who get them and they never miss. When even the richest computer geeks can't even score even 50% of the time. Also supposedly erc has gotten busted in the past flipping their own product on discogs. Like music direct with oop mofis. They also have a tendency to do "private presses" of desirable titles. On discogs there's multiple "limited" titles with additional "private pressings". So they sometimes press more for their buddies. The reason they do this is to build up demand and prestige. If people are flipping at $700 then $350 seems like a steal. KZbinrs allotted copies would then talk them up to keep their access leading to more demand( see Michael intensely defending ERC markering jackets at $400 yet criticizing mofi for poor jackets at $60). But it's gone too far where it's now all the big vinyl youtubers bragging since no one else can get them, thus raising the resale for their exclusive asset. And the few not allotted are instantly bought faster than a person can click by people running bots to flip them. Erc strayed far from being a collectible to being an elitist club. It's incredibly pretentious and genuinely disturbs me that only the same group of people are alloted all releases when normal folks can barely get one. Which is why they get so hyped up since it's all club members praising their exclusive asset. Which is why Mike's review was great. He was allotted a copy by being a huge record store owner and youtuber, he didn't have to refresh nonstop. But since he honestly reviewed them he'll never be afforded that luxury again. Which may be why they avoid selling to normal people to keep the mystique that this club perpetrates. It's sad that the biggest doors fans miss out after a huge panic because they're afforded seconds when others have their card auto charged. I just feel bad for doors fans. They are my dad's favorite band. He has heart failure and lewy body dementia. I wanted to get a copy so we could listen to it just once before he's gone, and I can't afford to pay resale prices. Now he'll never hear it, as we waited over a year for the release and sat waiting for the email. When random audiophiles who barely even like doors will listen to it once and put it on a shelf. Hell most erc fans are jazz/classical people who were against them pressing rock and will instantly resell it. While doors fans are left having to feel bad because only this group and flippers get it and then brag about it, raising the price enormously. I feel bad not for me but since I guarantee that all the biggest doors fans missed out on this and will have to pay close to $1000 for it. As the old boy club lines their pockets with $500+ in profit for doing nothing. Now this is not a dig on Michael or those lucky to be in this group, but ERC and how they do buisiness. It's extremely pretentious, elitist, and genuinely disturbing. They'd rather leave tons of money on the table and hoard this amazing music from the masses than to allow peasants to hear it. They want to maintain this image and status of being akin to a bespoke gun or suit maker, where one must be on an exclusive list for years for the mere opportunity to spend $100,000+ on a gun. Well there's a reason people tend to despise groups like these because it creates this aristocracy who are afforded special privileges. Where youtubers like Michael are seen more worthy of the best doors pressing than even the biggest doors fans. It perpetrates this image that you and me are less worthy of the besr vinyl than big youtubers. Ontop of that they know mostly bots and flippers are buying the rest of the copies, but they only care about maintaining this image of being so special that people will spend $1000. It's one thing to give a reviewer a promo, it's a total other thing to give a group of probably a couple hundred people exclusive access to half the copies of a 450 copy pressing. Hell I guarantee they pressed 150 more so they'd even have copies to give to the doors site since they already allot so many to friends, family, and this club. It is what it is, but honestly screw erc. There's limited and expensive, and then there's elitism. It's just not cool, and though I trust Michael, it's hard to really trust reviewers not to be biased when they make $100s if the record's in high demand and keep their special privileges. Which explains the glaring difference in review between Mike and Michael for the white stripes album. Where Mike and others found it worse than a $40 copy, with disturbing and malicious defects like sharpeeing which should deeply disturb any vinyl collector, while Michael reprimanded him for being honest and wouldn't even concede that what they did was messed up. It doesn't matter if customer service is good, to maliciously hide damage with a marker when charging $400 is immoral and indefensible. And yet those who always get ercs were either silent, or defending them to the point of insulting Mike. Best is Michael bashed him for bias since he doesn't sell them, as Michael has the bias of being allotted copies, sells AP and originals with his club and yet reviews them glowingly, even the digital ones(as he hates mofi for the same thing, yet ap did the same with many digital compilations). Michael is my favorite reviewer. However given innate human bias and ERCs secret vip system, I just can't trust his or many others ERC reviews, since no one wants to bite the hand that feeds or drop the value of such an expensive asset by being honest. Plus he's not comparing to an original. Since erc doesn't eq, and the mono mix is notoriously poorly recorded, I can't see this being much if any better than a clean monarch, which isn't even that much better than any other mono og. Especially since it's from a copy tape. All valve mastering without any changes or eq isn't going to have much of a difference outside of warmth. And I've seen many normal folks dissapointed with erc not finding them worth the insane resale they had to pay. So with that, I love Michael but screw erc. This ended up so long and I hope Michael isn't offended if he reads it since it's not his fault, but screw erc and their pretentious elitism.

[@vinylrulesok8470]

@@simonemurray1345 Wow, you obviously have strong feelings about ERC. I have no evidence to back up your claims but agree that ERC are trying to appear elitist and for me that goes against everything I believe in when it comes to buying records. So many labels could do the same but they don't, rather they treat customers as music fans and provide a great product at a reasonable price. SAM Records in France, Analogue Productions, Speakers Corner, Craft (small batch not withstanding) etc. But ERC to my mind are treating their products as investments for an elitist few and that's not what buying Records is about for me. But each to their own I suppose. I don't agree with their model and I think their products are not worth what they're charging so I certainly will never buy any of their releases, even if they did a special press of my favourite album. So sorry to hear about your dad.

[@clumsiloe]

@@simonemurray1345 I recall the first couple of Craft small batch selling out in seconds, not “a least an hour”, or even 2 hours based on the 1k qty available. What you might not be aware of is that people who expressed an interest in the Doors last year when it was announced were emailed by ERC and offered a copy first before it went on general release. And yes, I think it is also true that previous loyal customers get first dibs. However since the record is a small fortunate and I have better thing to spend my money on, this does not vex me at all.

[@CharlieMessing]

@@simonemurray1345 Well, it does seem like our knowledge of ERC releases is a tease, as they are so costly and more or less sold out by the time they are released - and by the time a review reaches us. But, for those who can get them and do get them they are a wonderful thing. I'll never drive a Rolls Royce, but I do believe they're solid and dependable cars. They simply have nothing to do with me, and I'll never drive one. If I ever hear an ERC record on my $2000 (total) stereo setup, I'll see what I think. For me they are a myth, but I don't deny anyone their right to their own Heaven...Peace out!

[@Malinois2812]

Curious about the UHQR LA Woman

[@danieldill5100]

I understand that a mono disc must be played with a mono cartridge. Is this true?

[@vincentwerner4856]

What does "leadered edited" mean?

[@MichaelLisk]

"Renaissance figure of Jim Morrison." C'mon, Michael. I love hyperbole as much as the next guy, but there are limits. I was half expecting you to compare him to Johann Wolfgang von Goethe in the next sentence.

[@CharlieMessing]

I thought he was talking about the presentation of Jim's face on the cover as "Raphael-esque" or something...

[@davidlg0478]

@@CharlieMessing it's a bog standard photo

[@papabear1417]

An exceptional analysis. Chapeau Michael, chapeau.

[@bassbymichele]

This ERC is surely fascinating... some unique pressings..

[@redgePro]

Are there any informations about the source…i read that the doors mono tapes were not so good…thats what Steve Hoffman wrote: Don't pay too much for a mono Doors Elektra LP; most of them have NO audio information about 9k...

[@Jamko1970]

A few people that have the ERC record say it sounds like shit.

[@redgePro]

Ok…here are a few statements from Steve Hoffman to the ERC-source: „NO, it's the US LEDO copy. I guess one could call it a "master" since records were cut from it, but it's not the Botnick original mix. It's been compressed and EQ'd for ease of record cutting back in the day. A typical EQ'd cutting dub. …..What would be better is to have Mr. Botnick mix a new analog mono version from the four-track original and cut a record from that. That would be something; wicked cool. I did it, mixed a mono and stereo version with full dynamics as a test. Wasn't authentic enough though. Oh well…Yeah, I have two original mono Doors and they both sound like crap. I think the LEDO tape shaved off the bass, treble, midrange and dynamics and left not much to work with.. I'd love to be wrong about it but…Substitute the word "Leveled" for "Leadered" and it would be more truthful. Leveled means reduced dynamics (for ease of record cutting pre Neumann lathe era.“ Overall not a must have in my eyes…..

[@Martin-my8fk]

Hast du gar keine Probleme mit welligen Vinyl?

[@rogernetzer1054]

Yours is my favorite KZbin channel, by a wide margin. Mind you, I do not own a turntable or any vinyl. .But I love the music you discuss (I started listening in 1965, at a time when She's a Woman was the latest Beatles single; in 1967 I had The Doors album within days of its release) ), your delight in and understanding of connoisseurship, your articulate, uncannily informed and fair judgments, your English (I am from the States), your modesty and sheer intelligent decency.. Bless you, Michael.

[@CharlieMessing]

Hear hear!

[@redgePro]

I read some time ago that its not recommended to play „historic“ mono grooves with a (modern) stereo needle…. A „damaging“/wearing of the needle and the grooves is possible. Are the ERC Mono grooves historical reconstructions or are they modern versions which can be played with stereo systems? Should also sound different….

[@charlesgund4812]

If this had an obi saying abbey road half speed then I feel the review would be different 😉

[@clumsiloe]

As you know Michael used to review the AR HSMs without comparing them another source, and found some of them wanting at that time. He did quite like the Tommy one (he didn’t compare it, I have compared it to UK 1969 OG and it is close and good enough for the money) and you know he didn’t really have anything bad to say about Roxy ones except for when compared to the original UK version they felt a bit lacking in punch. For now though his focus has clearly shifted away from MoFi and the AR cuts and towards OGs. I spend a lot on MoFi having followed M45s early commentaries, and while I’m a little bit sore about that… it is my own fault. And still they are actually not bad sounding records at all, but they will always sound different compared to the original, that is the point. And some people won’t like that difference.

[@notenoughholidays]

I have 2 copies of Sketches of Spain , Mono and Stereo- I'm happy to listen to whichever one I randomly pull out from the shelf, as they are both an enjoyable listen :) Yet to hear an audiophile release of the Doors- definitely need to do it one day.

[@chrisoleson9570]

Shouts to the gentlemen of my favorite podcast, "Egg Foo What," who turned me on to this channel.

[@Michael45RPM]

welcome Chris :-)

[@MOOeymania]

It literally comes from a defective source......

[@matthewtapley2765]

Great band

[@Primal_vinyl3]

Are we listening to the same record? The Doors are my favourite band and I thought this was going to be a definitive edition. It sounds awful, for me Alabama whisky bar is unlistenable with a weird hissing noise throughout. The VMP is much better and a fraction of the price. This should never have been released. I’ll stick with the stereo APs as they are superior to this in every way.

[@CharlieMessing]

A hissing noise would mean a defective pressing, and something to be returned for refund, not something to judge the entire pressing by.

[@volkhardruhs7662]

Please Michael, listen what I‘the Groove has to tell about the record. And he has several different releases. On this record all the faults of the original are copied, he says.

[@Michael45RPM]

there are always different angles trackingangle.com/music/erc-cut-using-the-same-tape-elektra-used-in-1967-so-why-the-controversy

[@marcallain]

Mike, you are showing your cards. Are you getting these free for a good review? How can one say it's total shit and you saying it's beautiful. My trust in you is gone.

[@marcellavankraaij]

I only have good experience with ERC releases. Hearing is believing

[@jamiehowarth541]

What matters is how closely the chain itself can reproduce the flat master accurately, and this one can't. The digital renditions are almost imperceptibly different. ERC is about as far from a high fidelity rendering as can be. Does it seduce with its colorations, sure. But that's not what's in the recording.

[@gunnerdunbar]

Knob polisher

[@Chunksville]

I believe this tape probably beyond saving but I would love to see what you could do with it with your processing

[@georgpoensgen3217]

Du hast einen tollen KZbin-Kanal den ich sehr gerne anschaue. Zu dem vorliegenden Bericht bekommst du viel Kritik in den Kommentaren. Da gibt es ja sogar Leute, die unterstellen dir, dass Du eine geschönte Bewertung für eine bemusterte Platte gemacht hast. Und leider bin auch ich von der großen Abweichung in den Reviews von dir und Mike Esposito stark irritiert. Die Sache ist sehr sehr verwunderlich. Die reine Äußerung des Verdachts einer quasi gekauften Bewertung erschüttert mich. Sage bitte dass Du die Platte gekauft hast! Dasmist doch alles nicht mehr zu ertragen. Deine Ansicht zur Plattenqualität darfst du gerne haben. Auch ggf mal danebenliegen. HOFFE Du redest Dir deine super teure Platte einfach nur schön oder Du hast einfach nur recht.

[@Michael45RPM]

trackingangle.com/music/erc-cut-using-the-same-tape-elektra-used-in-1967-so-why-the-controversy

[@georgpoensgen3217]

@@Michael45RPM danke für die nähere Erklärung der Hintergründe zur Platte an sich. Verstehen hilft... Fundierte Ansichten können ja auch gerne unterschiedlich ausfallen.

[@davidferguson777]

I would love to see both you and Mike from the In Groove have a discussion on this release, but first please exchange your copies of the record with each other, and determine if one of you (Mike) received a "lemon" / "dog-shit" version for the review. Michael Fremer must be the moderator!

[@SayHelloToJonny]

Yes, I’d like to see the Return of the Three Michaels to discuss this release! I like Mike In Groove’s no-nonsense take on vinyl and his grasp of the technical side of vinyl production. The sound issues he points out are NOT pressing issues, but problems with state of tape that was used. No valve mastering will fix that, but perhaps Michael 45 was happy to overlook the wow/flutter/dropout problems, (although I’d love to see him frisbee the record across the room in disgust…!).

[@davidlg0478]

Totally up for it, but it will never happen. Mike Esposito and Fremer will do it, but not Michael Ludwig unfortunately, in my opinion which is a real pity.

[@gunnerdunbar]

I’ve heard this pressing is dog shit, makes sense to me bc the original tapes are in such bad shape and the album was never really recorded right anyway.

[@JBLClassic]

You’ve heard, but not listened with your own ears. Anyone who is close to Pittsburgh, is free to stop by and judge for themselves.

[@gunnerdunbar]

@@JBLClassic your right haven’t heard it for myself, but I soon will, couple of my trusted friends have the album and they are the ones that told me it’s sounds like crap, they both have the OG, analog productions, and mofi pressing as well for all of us to compare to. if you have a unicorn pressing out of the 500 then ERC’s quality control comes into question right beside their integrity to push out a $500 POS.

[@JBLClassic]

@@gunnerdunbar 450, and I guess mine is a unicorn.

[@gunnerdunbar]

@@JBLClassic 🤷🏾‍♂️ well Mike E over at the in-groove just confirmed my suspicion as well as my friends findings on their copy’s “it’s dog shit” haha, so now that’s three people who own this ERC pressing and all came to the same conclusion... interesting. Well apparently 1-5 copy’s are good. Yikes

[@jamiehowarth541]

Tapes are in good shape.

[@dphilipp6150]

Hallo aus Koblenz, tja die Scheibe werde ich mir wohl beschaffen müssen.....war 10 Jahre in einer DOORS Coverband aktiv...

[@Michael45RPM]

Viel Erfolg!

[@revelry1969]

Why did Chad not do the mono?

[@jamiehowarth541]

Chad doesn’t get original tape, that would have been a dub.

[@revelry1969]

@@jamiehowarth541 too bad you couldn’t have done your magic on this mono tape. You have done other doors titles. Big fan of your work. You are doing digital right.

[@SAGNI0971]

Michael, I’m not sure anymore about your objectivity: I have an almost certainty of what you’re going to ‘like’ and ‘dislike,’ what you’re going to elevate to the ‘fabulous’,’ all based on certain preconditions of brand and relevant associations. I have to say, Mike at in groove plunged the depths on this ERC release and you should take notice. I’ve enjoyed your channel and I still appreciate when you introduce us to obscure titles, etc., but I’m not as surprised as I used to be by your listening reviews and they don’t have the freshness that used to spark the excitement of discovery-the channel is now more about brand collecting than music.

[@JBLClassic]

How about if I told you ingroobe is full of shit. I have it, and it sounds phenomenal. I don’t own a record store and have a superiority complex so my opinion is coming straight from my experience of at least 30 years of being in this hobby. It’s his opinion, not gospel.

[@SAGNI0971]

@@JBLClassicthanks but your response seems fueled more by resentment than objectivity. I’m not a mike in groove acolyte but in this case he seems to be onto something.

[@Michael45RPM]

do have the erc version?

[@JBLClassic]

@@SAGNI0971 it’s certainly objective because I have a copy and if it was terrible, I’d say so. But using this guys hyperbolic trashing as a reason to doubt others isn’t necessary. Id probably just ignore it, but he pretty much said don’t trust anyone who says it’s good. That’s a foolish thing to say because he’s really not the ultimate authority on it.

[@SAGNI0971]

@@Michael45RPM thank you for responding. I don’t, but after watching Mike’s video wouldn’t you say he has a broad listening expertise with multiple versions of the albums release on vinyl? I mean it’s possible he could be disingenuous but he was very detailed in his compelling review.

[@Claudiu..]

I’m very curious

[@stephen8294]

The in grove guy doesn’t rate it !

[@sbud5134]

You and Esposito planning a Battle Royale?

[@earl007]

Warmth we have been their before. Recorded with valves is distortion.

[@CharlieMessing]

What? Hell, ears have distortion.

[@mortenchristensen1613]

Mike from the InGroove think it sounds like shit !!! How can your ears be so different ?? I would like to hear your thoughts on that ?

[@erikmolnar6585]

I just heard In Groove Mike say the ERC sounds like sh*t? Is this the release he reviewed?

[@greencraig8570]

Money, in any sense, should not be a consideration. So often I sense a tinge of jealousness in some people when they speak of money. The only thing that counts is the sound.