Van Halen II - The Mobile Fidelity One Step Vinyl Record Review & Shootout

In this video, I show and discuss the new Van Halen II Mobile Fidelity One Step Vinyl Record. I discuss the results of a blind shootout between the One Step and the 2015 Van Halen II reissue by Chris Bellman. I share with you the results of the blind, volume matched shootout as well as discuss my feelings and memories of Van Halen.
My stereo equipment that was used for this blind shootout:
Rega Planar 8 with an Apheta 3 cartridge
Rega Aria mk3 phono preamplifier
MoFi Sourcepoint 10 speakers
Emotiva PT1 preamp
Emotiva A 300 Bas X amp
2 REL S/510 subwoofers
#VinylCommunity #MelindaMurphy #VinylCollection #RecordCollection

[@michaeljacobson4844]

Wonderful story about Dave and Eddie. Of all we can say about Eddie, something not said very much: he had the greatest smile in rock and roll history!

[@MelindaMurphy]

I agree. He had a million dollar smile. ♥️🤗 Thank you and take care.

[@bigedhaaheo]

Aloha Melinda Thank you for a amazing review on Van Halen ll One Step. I always take your reviews into consideration, an so far all of them have been spot on. Always enjoy your honest reviews. Looking forward to watching your next video. Mahalo Ed

[@MelindaMurphy]

Wow! Thank you so much for the kind words of encouragement. ♥️ Mahalo. 🌞🌴

[@RockandRoll0U812]

Love your review of that album, makes me want to go and listen to it right now. I want to get that one step version as soon as I can! Love your passion for the music!

[@MelindaMurphy]

I'm absolutely thrilled with this One Step. ♥️ There's no other band like Van Halen.

[@dimebagdave77]

Great T-shirt ✌️ I've enjoyed my copy of this one step since it got here. I finally got brave enough to open it after 24 hours..there are always a few that want to argue over small details, I just follow my ears. My ears love this. Many thanks Melinda!

[@MelindaMurphy]

My ears love this too. It really smokes. 😄 Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@bigmikeyz0071]

Your videos and reviews are always great. They truly help me out a lot with final decisions on vinyl purchases. Recently I got a good deal on a minty first press of Van Halen’s Balance. Such a great record!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Balance is such a good album. Having an original is very cool. They aren't easy to find. Thank you and take care. 🤗♥️

[@ConglomerationCat]

My very favorite Van Halen album. Great production with such contagious energy. Thanks Melinda and take good care.

[@MelindaMurphy]

It's a fantastic album. The David Lee Roth years were magical. ♥️ Thank you and take care.

[@ConglomerationCat]

@@MelindaMurphy Good morning! Exactly...any favorite songs off that album? I like all of them but I really like D.O.A. and Women In Love. It's really hard to pick one!

[@HaraldMacGerhard]

Melinda, I have never been a Van Halen fan but you make me wanna check out his music now and get these albums 💝

[@MelindaMurphy]

Definitely check out Van Halen. If you like rock & roll, I can't imagine you wouldn't like some of their music. ♥️

[@tomdavis6371]

In 1978 I was a high school Junior and we had a juke box in the school cafeteria that played Van Halen cuts from that first record over and over, day after day for three 48 minute lunch periods every day of the week. It was just SO good.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Wow! What a cool school. 🤗♥️ Thank you and enjoy your weekend.

[@Claudes416]

So happy that this was everything you wanted it to be. Shoutout to Phillip for all his hard work!

[@MelindaMurphy]

My husband is the coolest guy. I'm so grateful. Thank you and enjoy your weekend. ♥️🤗

[@louisbonilla6780]

Can't wait to hear "Light Up The Sky" when it arrives - I was lucky to have seen Van Halen open up for Ronnie Montrose on their very first American Tour at the Palladium in NYC 1978 - this being their second LP all my friends were like "You enjoy Van Halen?" most of my friends were musicians like me and their impression was that Eddie was using a gimmick they had seen Brian May do before in Queen but after hearing "I'm The One" and "Little Dreamer" they all became fans for life! Great video Melinda❤See you next week!

[@MelindaMurphy]

What an amazing show that must have been. ♥️ I'm so jealous. I'm so glad Eddie was able to win your friends over. He was a true talent and loved to play guitar. Thank you and take care. 🤗

[@ianemery4355]

The packaging is amazing on Van Halen II a wonderful album! Best wishes with the big move Melinda! 😊

[@MelindaMurphy]

The packaging is beautiful. Thank you and enjoy your weekend. ♥️🤗

[@Protometal66]

Melinda, thank you so much for this video. I just love it when you tell us your memories associated with these albums. :) This brought back a lot of memories for me. I remember getting this when it came out and I played it to death ha. Their harmonies are so spot on on this album. My favorites are DOA and Beautiful Girls but I love the whole album. I'm happy for you that you have this fantastic sounding record in your collection. Take care. Wendy T

[@MelindaMurphy]

Some of my best memories have Van Halen playing in the background. ♥️Thank you for the kind words. 😀

[@TheModestAudiophile-oq2hy]

I loved your review! You obviously have so much passion for this band so its great that you got to experience this One Step. VH has always been a great Summer band for me and in particular this specific album. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.

[@MelindaMurphy]

This is such a feel good album ♥️ Thank you so much for the kind words. I absolutely love VH and I'm glad my passion for them shows. Take care.

[@thrillswilbury7057]

Beautiful job, Melinda. I always enjoyed VH, particularly the Roth years, but they’ve never been a particular favorite of mine. But your wonderfully detailed review makes me want to revisit this record, which I haven’t listened to in its entirety since college. Great job.

[@MelindaMurphy]

It's the perfect summertime album. There's no better weekend to go and revisit this album. Thank you very much and have an awesome weekend. ♥️🤗

[@ronaldweed6103]

I need to find this vinyl. Thanks for this awesome review. Love their Music

[@MelindaMurphy]

It's such a great album and the Mobile Fidelity One Step is 🔥🔥🔥😀 Thank you and take care.

[@johnspringer9422]

Eagerly awaiting my copy. I saw them open for Black Sabbath in 78, and again in 79 on there World Vacation tour on my 18th birthday. Some great memories. Thanks for your enthusiasm.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Wow! That must have been the most amazing show. I'm a little jealous. Lol. Thank you and take care.

[@analogkid4557]

Love the Early VH! Keep rockin' girl!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Me too. Thank you! ♥️🤗

[@automatedelectronics6062]

My LP copies of Van Halen I purchased 7/15 and were re-mastered by Chris Bellman. I don't see a 2016 LP release of this album. It's great that you've made some friends at Mofi. You've got alot of subscribers and that's money in the bank for the record companies when you do a review. Another great video, Melinda!

[@MelindaMurphy]

The only money I receive is from KZbin. I have not done any paid reviews of albums on my channel. The comparison was with the 2015 reissue.

[@mikesgotthespins5894]

Van Halen! Great T-shirt, I just saw Apollonia talking about Prince imitating that shot of David Lee for her in his living room, she say's he jumped off his piano, and added that Prince never did that move till he saw David Lee do it. What a great shootout to do, you can't go wrong I bet they both sound great, thanks for sharing, Peace.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Oh wow! I can see Prince doing that. He was a great performer and it's cool to think Dave inspired Prince. 🤗 Thank you and take care.

[@maxpower78-15]

All the recent VH vinyl ive picked up has been almost as good as the Stones releases. Quiet, decent vinyl with dynamic sound. Im not surprised the super duper deluxe version is killer. Cheers!!! What a great channel!!!

[@MelindaMurphy]

I'm always glad to hear someone is picking up some VH. ♥️ Thank you for your kind words. Take care.

[@michaelethridge108]

Watched this over the weekend and although I'm a diehard fan I still found it interesting because as they say sound matters. Thanks for the podcast special edition.❤

[@MelindaMurphy]

@@michaelethridge108 thanks Mike. The sound quality is awesome. ♥️ I hope you're doing good. We'll talk soon.

[@josephtreffiletti4198]

Hi Melinda! Great video! Love Van Halen! Sorry I been away for a little while. I was sick, but all is good now. You and family have a great weekend and hope all is well! 😃🤘♥

[@MelindaMurphy]

I'm glad you are feeling better and it's great to hear from you. 🤗♥️ Thank you and take care.

[@josephtreffiletti4198]

@@MelindaMurphy You're welcome and thank you! 😃♥🤘

[@MikesVinylExperience]

Agree with your review. I feel the same way. This is a great pressing of a classic album! Thanks Melinda.

[@MelindaMurphy]

It's fantastic. I will watch your video to hear your thoughts soon. I didn't want to know anyone else's thoughts until I discovered my own. ♥️🤗 Thank you and take care.

[@FrankieLovesElvis]

Van Halen is my all time fav (Roth era). I’m working on getting my copy as well. Thanks Melinda. 😊

[@MelindaMurphy]

Please let me know what you think. I really love it. ♥️ Thank you and take care.

[@maxpower78-15]

Melinda!!! Yes!!! Been waiting for this review!!! Awesome… beer in hand…

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you very much. 😀♥️ Enjoy your weekend.

[@maxpower78-15]

@@MelindaMurphy your calming presence is always welcome. So pumped for you they keep sending you these deluxe versions for review. Im jealous but its super cool

[@jasonelliot9633]

Well thank you for showing this... Van Halen is also my favorite band and always will be this is very cool

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you. This is a great version of VH 2. Have a great weekend. ♥️🤗

[@JohnM-cf3ql]

Yay to you and your Family and your relocation! I just received my one Step of VH II and I have an original, the Chris Bellman and the Hoffman/Grey pressings. All of which sound great but the One Step adds a little more to what was already their in spades. I heard another review that claims the One Step adds sibilance in Dave's voice. My system is not an expensive rig. I just bought a cheap good looking turntable that was well designed and engineered for the consumer (B&O RX2). It has lots of just push play features. I then Bought a B&O MMC1 cartridge to make it sound fantastic, and it does. I love your review! It really mimics my results. VH is also my favorite band after I lost my prior favorite Lynyrd Skynyrd. I didn't think I'd love music again after their plane crash and along came Van Halen and brightened my world. I used to participate on the VH news desk for years and I believe Wolgang paid attention to the true fans and when I suggested the perfect song for VH to open with was Light Up The Sky.... and then they did it?!! Maybe I just read into that coincidence more than I'd like to imagine but it meant the world to me. I deep down knew it would be their last concert tour so I paid attention to everything Eddie, Wolf, Alex and Dave did and I thank them from the bottom of my heart for giving me the concert of a lifetime. this version Of VHII is perfect in every way, and I find no sibilance anywhere just a desire to turn it up without any fatigue. Thank you Melinda, I really look forward to your videos.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you for your beautiful comments about Van Halen and about the One Step. I love the One Step as well and experience zero sibilance. I'm thrilled with what MoFi has done for my favorite band. 🤗♥️ Thank you and take care.

[@hnipen]

Melinda, I have never been a Van Halen fan but you make me wanna check out his music now and get these albums 💝 and I do so much agree, it is all about the music and the experience 😎

[@MelindaMurphy]

The music, the memories and how the music makes you feel is what it's all about. ♥️ Thank you and take care.

[@hnipen]

@@MelindaMurphy 🥰

[@RockVinylChannel.]

Wow, thats very cool! 😄😄👍👍I love Van Halen

[@MelindaMurphy]

Me too! ♥️ Thank you very much.

[@rockytyrone]

Thanks for a great review Melinda. You confirmed exactly what I thought about this record. Although I loved the first Mofi VH, I think this one sounds sonically better. I also think Dave might have been the funnest rock star who ever existed

[@MelindaMurphy]

Dave's hilarious. He would be very difficult to interview. Lol. I love the first VH One Step and this one blew me away. They did a great job on both of them. ♥️🤗 I'm so happy. Thank you and take care.

[@arturoalmazan5262]

Fair warning probably my favorite VH roth album it was definitely had a heavier sound. VH 2 is awesome too. hope you had a great 4th of July beautiful melinda. great VH shirt 🤘

[@MelindaMurphy]

We had a great 4th of July! ♥️🇺🇲 I can't wait to hear the Fair Warning One Step. I love that album. 🤗 Thank you and take care.

[@almosthuman56]

I need that one step VH! That is the ultimate summer album for me. My 2nd favorite Van Halen album. So good! And yes Wolfie did have a lot to do with the setl;ist. And yes, David sings amazing! Whole band is crazy great! Great concert story. There was a lot of conflict. But they did love each other. Great review! And I love the shirt! :) Take care!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you so much for this awesome shirt. ♥️🤗 I still love it and I always think of you when I wear it. I'm so glad I was able to attend that final tour. This is such a great album and this One Step is amazing. 🤗♥️ You have been on my mind a lot lately. I hope you are hanging in there. Take care.

[@almosthuman56]

@@MelindaMurphyThank you so much, Melinda. I really apprecite it. Doing the best I can. Day by day. I am doing better now. Thank you :)

[@alanlough638]

Hi, Melinda, yes I'm a Van Halen fan today as I have always been. I was a Freshman in high school when Van Halen's debut album was released in 1978. I still listen to that album and enjoy listening to their debut album as much today as I did when the album was released.

[@MelindaMurphy]

That's so cool. We grew up in an amazing time for music. We are older now but I wouldn't trade places with anyone younger than me. Great memories. Thank you and have a great week. 🤗♥️

[@michaelivan9066]

My record shop is getting my copy in this week. Can’t wait. Seems like it took forever since Van Halen’s debut one step came out.

[@MelindaMurphy]

The waiting is painful but it has been so worth it. These One Steps sound so amazing. I'm so glad that I now have amazing copies of VH records. Let me know what you think. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@michaelivan9066]

⁠Got my copy today. It’s Great. Also got a replacement stylus as my Ortofon Blue was around 2 years old. Listened to it with the old needle first and was impressed. Replaced the stylus and Holy Shit !!!!! What a difference. Went from being very good to just blowing my mind. Then I listened to my Van Halen 1 One Step and was just floored. I thought it sounded great before I replaced the needle but Wow these albums sound fantastic !!!!!!!’

[@cbFIN]

For budget restrictions, I'm buying the SACD versions, pre-ordered in 2022 and only the first album has been released and delivered. Patience is heavily tested but if it sounds fantastic, it'll be worth the wait for sure. Thanks for the review.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I have heard great things about the SACDs. I hope you really enjoy it. ♥️ Thank you and take care.

[@davegervais1]

Great review! I am also a lifelong Van Halen fan, and I agree that these two MOFI reissues are the best sounding versions of these essential albums! I usually don’t like MOFI rock reissues (The Cars albums come to mind), but they definitely hit the mark with these first two VH albums. I can’t wait to hear the remaing 4!

[@MelindaMurphy]

I couldn't ask for more. I am very happy as well. ♥️ Thank you and take care.

[@billphelps5611]

Great review! I want to get one of these one steps (I don't have any) of the Van Halen records and it is a toss up between this or Fair Warning. Really love both and I enjoyed hearing your connections with the album. I didn't hear anything about Outta Love Again though....one of my favorite Eddie riffs! Take care!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Both are fantastic albums. You could buy this one and if you are happy with it buy Fair Warning when it comes out. They will be spread out quite a bit time wise so you don't have to buy them at the same time. I'm a huge Van Halen fan so I'm a little biased. 😍 Outta Love Again is one of my favorites on this album. Dave's personality and Ed's riffs sound incredible. It's such a fun listen. Thank you and take care. 🤗♥️

[@curtissimpkins]

Great video my friend

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you Curtis. ♥️🤗

[@maxpower78-15]

Side note Melinda!! Twister is coming out on 4K Ultra HD disc. Cant wait to hear Humans Being while whey are chasing the Tornadoes!!! What a great Hagar Era Van Halen song!!!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Yes!!! That will be awesome. ♥️ Thank you and enjoy your weekend.

[@AI_Surfer]

One of my most prized LPs in my collection is an original test pressing of VH ‘II’ from 1979. I will be getting the new One Step, but personally I would love to see MoFi come out with a 33rpm version pressed on Super Vinyl. Not only because the price would be half that of the One Step, but because VH ‘II’ is barely 30 minutes in length and having the album spread across four sides really interrupts the flow of the listening experience. Excellent video Melinda. Thank you!

[@MelindaMurphy]

I'm not sure there are any plans for that but it would be very cool. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@davidellis5141]

Love the opening tracks You're No Good & Dance The Night Away ! No sophomore slump from Van Halen .. a terrific follow-up to the iconic debut. Definitely deserves the MoFi love 🎸 Happy belated 4th Melinda 🇺🇸 😊

[@MelindaMurphy]

I agree. It's a fantastic album . Thank you and enjoy your weekend. ♥️♥️

[@charlesf2804]

I have to admit, this video almost makes me want to go out and get the album. I have a couple of VH singles but never bought any albums. The way you talk about this LP is captivating, and it's obvious that you're a huge fan of the band and that they sound better than ever on record, thanks to MoFi. Glad you got this One-Step. And good move to not have packed the stereo up yet. Be sure that's the LAST thing you box up, if possible. Cheers!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Exactly! My stereo equipment will be the last to go. Lol. I'm absolutely thrilled with the One Step. The music is terrific and this version takes it up a notch. ♥️🔥 Thank you and enjoy your weekend.

[@PhilipEaton-pp1by]

never a big fan of van Halen have albums from 78 to 82 keep the videos coming always look forward to seeing them

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you very much. ♥️🤗

[@chriwri]

Alex is an amazing drummer!!!

[@MelindaMurphy]

I agree. Fantastic! ♥️ Thank you and take care.

[@PurpleDreki]

Van Halen II. Great follow-up to the first release. My favorite tune is "Outta Love Again".

[@MelindaMurphy]

That's a great song. 🔥 I love it too. Thank you and take care.

[@robbiedetroitstigermanviny8883]

I'm so happy for You! I love it when good things happen to good people. Enjoy Honey!!!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you very much. ♥️🤗 Have a great weekend.

[@JohnnyBeane]

So awesome!!! Can't wait to hear it. Love =VH= too.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Please let me know what you think. ♥️ Thank you and have a great week.

[@JohnnyBeane]

@@MelindaMurphy Will do. I actually do a Van Halen show on my channel. Talk about this stuff. Have a good one too!

[@jimalbruzzess2445]

Hey Melinda, I'm glad you liked it. I have both VH1 & VH2. Just this week I pre ordered women and children first. Can't wait. I was 14 when VH2 came out and like you, listened to it ever since. I hope MFSL keeps going with the whole VH catalog including the Sammy Hagar era. Great video as always. Enjoy your weekend!!!! See ya next Tuesday.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Women and Children First is probably my favorite album but they are all extremely excellent. I'm so glad MoFi is doing this. Thank you and take care.

[@VanHalenStarWars]

Awesome review! Thank you so much! Quick question..where did you get that shirt? Amazon? I cannot find it anywhere..super cool! 🤘

[@MelindaMurphy]

It was a gift given to me by Ralph from the KZbin channel Almost Human. ♥️ What a wonderful gift. Thank you and take care.

[@mrminusmediacenter]

I purchased this one also. Melinda your right on with this review. One complaint I have is the original mix with Eddie’s guitar mixed only on the right channel. It’s a small complaint. A fantastic album and and kudos to Mofi

[@MelindaMurphy]

I apologize for the delayed response. ♥️🤗 Yes, this One Step is everything I dreamed of. Thank you and have a fantastic day.

[@ericharrelson2045]

Nice perspective.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you very much. 🤗♥️

[@jmfloyd23]

I received VH II before going on vacation. Dance the night away is one of my favorites!

[@MelindaMurphy]

It's a great song and the harmonies are incredible. Thank you and take care.

[@jmfloyd23]

@@MelindaMurphy You’re welcome!

[@LanceGreidet-bi9zk]

I like the vocals come out crystal clear layering & soundstage is great the drums sound natural not over bearing you know what they say if you don't have a great backbeat you have no band great review Melinda

[@MelindaMurphy]

I agree with everything you said. It's wonderful. Alex is an amazing drummer. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@DidactDude]

Roth era VH transcends rock and roll..

[@MelindaMurphy]

Absolutely. ♥️ Thank you and have a wonderful weekend.

[@leonsam12]

Gonna give my VH records another spin, hope yall had an awesome 4th of July!!😎🤘🇺🇸🎆

[@MelindaMurphy]

Yes!!! Definitely play some VH this weekend. We had a great 4th of July. Take care. ♥️🤗

[@vinylrules4838]

Hi Melinda, So glad you are happy with the new Mobile Fidelity Van Halen lp. It is always a good thing when our favorite lps sound so great. I just laugh when drum sets are recorded bigger than what they are in real life. Yes, it is a "cool" effect, but it is so unnatural.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Alex sounds incredibly natural on this One Step thank goodness. They did a really good job keeping the music well balanced and natural. ♥️ Thank you and take care.

[@michaelgalindo9162]

Awesome shirt

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you. 🤗♥️ Have a great weekend.

[@Maiden4ever993]

me and my mom saw them in Nashville in 2012 i was 18 i believe mom checked me out at 2nd period incredible show

[@MelindaMurphy]

Your mom is very cool. ♥️ What a great memory. Thank you and take care.

[@mazzysmusic]

MoFi was so smart to reduce the width of their One Step boxes close to 50%.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I like the old boxes but I agree with you. These still look nice and they don't take up as much space. Have a great weekend Mazzy! 🤗♥️

[@franco426]

I have the 2015 version and I no doubt believe the Mobile Fidelity is more compelling listen. The songs on the album are so good I was singing them as you were mentioning the titles! haha A worthy follow up to the debut!

[@MelindaMurphy]

MoFo did a terrific job on this album. I agree that it's a fantastic follow up. For me, VH could do no wrong at this time. ♥️ Thank you and take care.

[@brendan_allard]

Hi Melinda- Do you know if we are going to get the Mofi treatment for Women and Children First, Diver Down, and 1984 as well? I’m probably going to purchase this Van Halen II One Step, and I think giving the rest of the Dave catalogue this same treatment would be amazing!

[@MelindaMurphy]

I'm pretty sure they will do all of the Roth era albums. ♥️🤗 I couldn't be happier. Thank you and take care.

[@brendan_allard]

@@MelindaMurphy You as well!

[@Jamko1970]

You need the 2010 RTI Bellman cut or a 1979 Los Angeles promo pressing (both are very organic & balanced). The One-Step sounds good but a bit on the bright side. System- McIntosh 2102 tube amp. McIntosh C2300 tube pre-amp, McIntosh MT5 turntable, Clearaudio Concerto V2 MC cart, Sonos Faber Amati G5 speakers.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I have the 2010 version and an original (not promo) pressing. They are both good but they don't come close to the One Step to my ears. Our equipment definitely yields very different results. My VH2 One Step isn't bright at all. Thank you and take care.

[@aa5az423]

I got mine yesterday. Really impressive sonics. MoFi has a serious shipping problem and have had for a while. I've got 9 One-Steps and 27 SuperVinyls and I've got 9 One-Step seem splits and a few more on the SuperVinyls. And yes, I requested them to take them out of the sleeves for shipping and they didn't do it. In regards to sonics, Spanish Fly will put your system to the test. Super Revealing.

[@MelindaMurphy]

This One Step does sound amazing. The seam splits are annoying and I hope at some point they change the way they ship the records. I have been very fortunate lately that mine haven't had that problem but it is something that should be addressed. Thank you and take care.

[@voccsaycee30]

Thank you for this review! Just out of curiousity, did you happen to notice any sort of 3D all-analog sound in the 2015 version that was lost at all in the new MoFi One Step? Or was there anything at all better sonically in the 2015 remaster, or is there no reason to listen to that if we were to get the new MoFi version?

[@audiophileman7047]

If you have good hearing, you should notice a difference. Though it's a different album, I compared the MoFi Miles Davis Kind of Blue 45 rpm record with a Classic Records all analogue 33 1/3 rpm version of the record. This was before I knew there was a digital step in the MoFi Kind of Blue album. Even at 33 1/3 rpm the Classic Records all analogue version beat the 45 rpm! Needless to say, I was shocked and to be honest also felt cheated.

[@MelindaMurphy]

In my opinion and with my stereo equipment, the MoFi One Step won on every level. Thank you and enjoy your weekend.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I haven't ever been able to hear the Classic version of Kind of Blue. I know that the Classic Record label has a good reputation. It's a shame they are no longer in business. Have a great weekend. 🤗♥️

[@ELPCOTILLION-SD1970]

My VAN HALEN BoxSet Shall Be Here Soon...Which Includes That Album...Im Quite Looking Forward To That...

[@MelindaMurphy]

Very cool. I hope it arrives soon. Please let me know what you think. 😀 Have a great weekend.

[@ELPCOTILLION-SD1970]

@@MelindaMurphy Well~Since Most VAN HALEN Fans~Or At Least Myself~Primarily Prefer The Diamond Dave Era...I Know I'm Going To Love It... Especially The Debut Record...Have A Splendid Weekend As Well...

[@richardelliott8352]

always happy this lady is having fun with record collecting and is finally getting a system where owning so many records makes some kind of sense. the old original records are sufficient for my needs , so I can't really say much. However, that doesn't stop a guy like me. If I remember correctly , Mr. Belman had trouble with mastering decisions because Eddy had such a hard core audiophile system of such resolution that he was essentially demanding a product which was optimized only for his own very high end audio playback , and wouldn't be universally useful to the average consumer . so it is conceivable that with a different, more elaborate system, the judgement might have been different. But it is hard to bet against the new remastering, excessive packaging and all.

[@MelindaMurphy]

You're probably right about that. He had a certain way he wanted to hear it and was forcing Bellman to read his mind. Lol. He also had an obvious interest in making his guitar playing front and center. I think that has an effect on the overall sound quality of his releases. He did a good job under the circumstances but this One Step sounds unleashed. I love it. Thank you and take care. ♥️😀

[@edwardcowburn2632]

I have to admit I thought the Chris bellman pressing was the best until I heard the MoFi version. I'm really looking forward to diver down because that's what started me as a fan. I remember my brother had the album and I would sneak into his room and listen to it. I hope we don't have to wait forever for that album to come out.

[@MelindaMurphy]

The Chris Bellman version is good but the MoFi is a lot better. Dover Down is the album that I first discovered Van Halen with. I heard the song Pretty Woman on the Dick Clark National Music Survey. ♥️ Thank you and take care.

[@ingolfkolsch8954]

Hallo Melinda, thanks for your Video, wonderful. I have the original, now I will buy the Mofi one, it will be great. Greetings from Cologne/Germany. Ingo

[@MelindaMurphy]

Please let me know what you think after you receive it. ♥️🔥 It's absolutely amazing. Thank you and take care.

[@lauher21]

I was 2 years old in 78 but I love Van Halen I know it probably doesn’t sound that good, but I will stick with the bellman boxset I love it

[@MelindaMurphy]

I was pretty young when it came out as well. ♥️ The Bellman box set is nice and he did a respectable job. I just think the MoFi One Step is on another level as it should be for the price point. 😀 Thank you and take care.

[@Brewin62]

Van Halen II represents a young band at the top of their game. Certainly no sophomore slump there. The musicianship of Eddie, Alex, and Michael combined with David Lee Roth’s over the top front man schtick made for a memorable album. Ted Templeman’s original production was excellent as well. Great sounding and fun. That’s rock and roll.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Well said! 🤗♥️ Thank you and take care.

[@livinaftermidnight9651]

I don't have either album you have but I have 1 question. Are both albums 45 rpm?

[@MelindaMurphy]

The MoFi One Step is 45 rpm and the 2015 reissue is 33 rpm. Thank you and enjoy your weekend. 😀♥️

[@TRamone01]

Just listened to Van Halen 2 all the way through. On real good equipment the audiophile copy must sound amazing. They share writing credit. Two guys don't need it all. Thanks.

[@MelindaMurphy]

This One Step is on another level. It sounds so incredible. It would probably sound great on any stereo equipment. I have nice equipment but certainly not the most expensive and it does really shine. Thank you and take care.

[@michaeledwards7668]

The 2015 all analog cuts done at BG Mastering are the way to go imo, they sound killer for much less money

[@MelindaMurphy]

I would have agreed with you until I heard these One Steps. The MoFi versions sound the best to me but the 2015 versions are good and lower in price. Thank you and take care.

[@michaeledwards7668]

@MelindaMurphy enjoy your videos, but I get the sense at that even if you liked the 2015 cuts more you would still say the One Steps are better because of your relationship with MoFi...I know I'm sorry but there is piece of ms that feels that way..🤔🤷‍♂️

[@baybae92]

11:55 Oh shit!! Melinda Lee Roth up in here!!!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Haha! I'm such a dork. Have a great weekend. ♥️

[@maxpower78-15]

I would love all of these. But i can only buy so much. I am considering getting the Fair Warning and 1984 one steps… Gotta hear Unchained the best i can

[@MelindaMurphy]

I am looking forward to both of those releases. 🔥 What amazing albums. Thank you and enjoy your weekend.

[@user-vh1qr6sd5o]

Melinda awesome shirt! Where did you get it? Enjoy your videos!

[@MelindaMurphy]

My friend Ralph from the channel Almost Human sent it to me. ♥️🤗 It was such a cool gift. Thank you and take care.

[@jeromeluby787]

I saw them in 1979 on that tour.... Capital Center outside of DC....They were....LOUD!!!!!.....LOL

[@MelindaMurphy]

Wow! I wish I was a little older so I could have attended one of their early shows. I'm so jealous and happy for you at the same time. Lol. Thank you and take care. 🤗♥️

[@revelry1969]

I concur. Krieg hit a grand slam on this. This UD1S is simply amazing. Get one while they last. Everything is so crisp clear, clean. Separation amazing. The guitar is so well defined feels like Ed is in the room. It only took 3+ years

[@MelindaMurphy]

I couldn't have said it better. 🔥♥️ Thank you and take care.

[@mr.mojorisin1616]

Love VH but I wish they'd do some RUSH titles! That would be awesome!

[@MelindaMurphy]

I could go for some MoFi Rush albums as well. 😀 Thank you and take care.

[@rjg2112]

Agree MOFI Rush would be awesome!

[@michaelrogers8126]

I would agree that the One Step packaging is much better then the UHRQ but like the UHRQ the One Step are just too pricey for me. I do have the CB 2015 and think it sounds great. Good luck on the move.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I understand the expense part. Everything in life has gotten so much more expensive that it's hard to afford items like this. Paying our bills and feeding our families should always come first. It's nice when we can splurge on something special like this. ♥️ Thank you and take care.

[@ELPCOTILLION-SD1970]

David Is 69...He'll Be 70 In October...Hard To Believe...But He Will Always Diamond~Dave As Far As Im Concerned...

[@MelindaMurphy]

Wow! I agree. Dave is one of the greatest frontmen of all time. ♥️ Thank you and take care.

[@ELPCOTILLION-SD1970]

@@MelindaMurphy Indeed...I Saw Him Like With Poison In 1990...For His First Solo Record: Skyscraper...Ur Welcome...Have A Splendid Weekend...

[@slayyeeeerrrrrrrr]

Hi, not sure if you're into the books too but with Alex's impending one, I've found somewhere selling signed copies. Want to let you know if you're interested so you can grab one.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Where are the signed copies? I would love to order one that's signed. 🤗

[@slayyeeeerrrrrrrr]

@@MelindaMurphy Indigo books has them. They're a good price too, gotta be quick though

[@donello430]

VH vinyl tip: For whatever strange reason, the Mexican Columbia House pressing of OU812 is *s u p e r b*!!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Wow! I didn't know that. 🥰 Very cool!

[@donello430]

@@MelindaMurphy I just realized the copy I have it the *US* Columbia House pressing. I think I mistakenly thought it was the 'mexican columbia house' because the copy I bought came from a Mexican store.

[@larrylara8865]

Hi really would like to own a van halen shirt that your wearing where can I order one I love the shirt thanks

[@MelindaMurphy]

This shirt was gifted to me by Ralph from the Almost Human KZbin channel. He's such a sweet guy. I love this shirt too. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@SikNic]

Seen Van Halen rite after ll came out :)

[@MelindaMurphy]

Lucky you! ♥️ That's awesome.

[@SikNic]

@@MelindaMurphy World Vacation Tour August 15th, 1979 Cleveland Music Hall . Played Two nights 14th / 15th

[@MiguelVargas-vl4xz]

I didnt know it was your favorite band, but is very good band

[@MelindaMurphy]

Van Halen has been my favorite band since I was 12 years old. ♥️ They are a great band and they are also very sentimental to me. Thank you and take care.

[@greghawkins229]

👍

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you. 🤗♥️

[@greghawkins229]

@@MelindaMurphy I have been collecting since the 70’s and never thought I would buy New records from Mobile Fidelity. Your videos and a few other KZbinrs steered me that Way and now I have quite a few new ones. I try to buy older ones when I come upon them Thanks

[@Proacguy2-vi6cv]

The sound of all your albums will be different in your new environment. Courage with the move.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I'm looking forward to hearing them in my new room. Thank you and take care. 🤗♥️

[@leebridenstine2806]

I agree with your assessment, the MoFi is much fuller and more organic than the Chris Bellman to my ears, I'm very very happy with it..MoFi is batting a thousand so far imo with these VH reissues..greatly looking forward to the rest

[@MelindaMurphy]

Agree completely with you. ♥️🤗 I'm beyond happy with these VH releases. Thank you and take care.

[@VINTAGELIKE]

She is soo pretty.also knows her music

[@MelindaMurphy]

Awww! Thank you. 🤗♥️ Enjoy your weekend.

[@jimb2416]

Good video Melinda, I think that I've called you Melissa before. Sorry for that! How does it compare to the original?? I bought the first few VH Lps originally when they came out. I never bought every album in their catalog. I'm trying to do that now as I'm a lot older. It's helpful for me to watch people like you critique all the different versions. I can't afford to get every version either. So these videos helps. Can I please offer one issue with your videos? Please try to keep them shorter. Sometimes they're just a little bit too long. Sorry 😢

[@MelindaMurphy]

No problem. Melissa is my daughter's name so I don't mind if someone gets it mixed up. It happens all of the time. 😀 I have an original but it's in storage at the moment as we are preparing to move to Florida. I have played my old copies enough in the past to know that the One Step is something special. The details, dynamics and soundstage hit me in a way that my older copies didn't. I couldn't do a blind test but I feel it wasn't really necessary. I already know I personally like the One Step better. Thank you and take care. 😀♥️

[@alanshapiro5669]

I agree that the MoFi remasters are magnificent in their improvement of sound. Many of the other great remasters, like the ones done by Giles Martin for The Beatles, are also amazing. The issue has got to be the price. A regular album, in mint condition, can be bought for $10-20 and you will get good original sound. The remasters will be $30-60 and they are an improvement. The One Step gets you into the $150 range. If you can afford it, and have a sound system that will do the job, they are absolutely worth it. However, if the system you have can't do the job then why spend that kind of money?

[@MelindaMurphy]

I understand that the price point is high and the originals are easy to find for less money. As a huge VH fan, the difference in sound quality is with the price. I know my copy was a promo but I absolutely would have bought it and felt like I had gotten my money's worth. I agree that Giles Martin is doing a good job with The Beatles remixes. It's a great way to have a different listening experience for songs we know and love. Thank you and take care. 🤗♥️

[@ELPCOTILLION-SD1970]

The Guitar Melody On Dance The Night Away Are SO Memorable...Im Back To A Nice Quiet Day In 1978...

[@MelindaMurphy]

Yes. It's such a great classic song from the 70's. 😀♥️ Thank you and take care.

[@analoguecity3454]

Vinyl captures ALL of the analog information on a tape, or hi-res digital file! But when the lacquer gets plated at the plant noise and other imperfections is introduced! It's no wonder when you have to go through four steps to get to the stamper! But I think with the "one-step" there's much less likely hood of problems! You lose information with magnetic copying, not with the cutting because it's purely machanical process, but what causes the sound to degrade is the plating where noise is introduced! I will say you can definitely lose top end with plating! Man, whew, that's a mouthful 😅!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Lol. Thank you for sharing. I just know that this One Step sounds very good. ♥️ Take care.

[@analoguecity3454]

@@MelindaMurphy I tend to, " overanalyze" everything! It's the compulsiveness in me, you just have to be patient with me ,lol!

[@starlightgrecording559]

@starlightgrecording559 Gerard Stroh*** Talking About Van Halen Melinda Murphy*** I still Don't Know What Happen to the One Step to Noble Fidelity Person of the 1984 Van Halen Album Listing Melinda Murphy and I Went To Mobile Fidelity & Analogue Produtions Websites and No Listings At All So I Don't Know The Deal is on that Album!!!! That's it About the Album Melinda Murphy!!! Let's Talk About REO Speedwagon Melinda Murphy The Best REO Speedwagon is Kevin Cronin & Gary Richrath Were The Best Song Wrighting Team and and I Do Like I Can't Fight This Feeling Song Because The First I Heard That Song I Was in the Houspital For My Tennis Albow and They Gave Me to Fight the infection and I Was Home in 2 Days So I Love That Song Melinda Murphy!!!! Can't Wait to See Your New Music Room in Your New Home Soon*** Bye From Gerard Stroh****

[@MelindaMurphy]

The One Step release of 1984 is probably going to be a long time from now. They most likely took it off of the website so that people quit inquiring about when it will be released. They also no longer want pre-orders for that long. That's my best guess. I like REO Speedwagon and Can't Fight This Feeling Anymore is a good song but it marks the end of REO doing rock music. Their singles became more ballads after that. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@myronhelton4441]

Recommendations. My opinions. I am not so crazy over any of the Muddy Waters Folk Singer for sound. Jazz at the Pawnshop, people tell me the Fedelity & the AudioNautes are both great, with the slight edge to the AudioNautes, but I dont know how the other versions sound. Jazz at the Pawnshop was tube analog recorded live with the band inside a club playing in a box with an open front. The Dave Brubeck 45 rpm Analog Productions is the best version Dave Brubeck Time Out. The best Black Sabbath Black Sabbath.. The Kevin Gray is best, Artison green label Warner Brothersis very close. Dont like the remaster Grateful Dead American Beauty, Grateful Dead Live original is a better sounding album. Dire Straits Dire Straits Wild West End record, is much better sounding record than Brothers in Arms, i was surprised I JUST FOUND OUT AFTERR ALL THESE YEARS how good this record sounds, because the cd sounded terrible.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I have the Black Sabbath record you are talking about and it does sound wonderful. ♥️ Thank you and take care.

[@keepitgreasey1]

Overpriced for a mediocre half hour album. Besides that the master of this record is so clear that you don’t need a hype one step. First issue and even the first issue of the cd is superior enough. But hey, everything for the one step BACK version. Good listen everyone with the one step ( if you have a sound system for around 500.000 dollars😉

[@MelindaMurphy]

As a Van Halen fan, I don't consider VH2 a mediocre album in any way. 😀 I'm personally so happy that they made One Steps for my favorite band. Of course we don't have to agree on this. Thank you and take care.

[@ProfessorEchoMedia]

Ever watch the YT channel CHANNEL 33 RPM? They just did a review of this same Van Halen release and it was as enjoyable as yours!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Yes! I watched that video. Now I want a copy of that record. 😍 He did a review for the Rhino box set for Unlawful Carnal Knowledge and I did a review for the Mobile Fidelity Van Halen II One Step. Same band but different releases. Thank you and have a wonderful week. ♥️🤗

[@ProfessorEchoMedia]

@@MelindaMurphy Whoops, sorry about the mix up for the records. I don’t know what I’m doing, but my taste in KZbin record collecting channels is exemplary! ❤️

[@MelindaMurphy]

@@ProfessorEchoMedia putting me in the same company as Frank is an amazing compliment. No need to apologize. 😀

[@ProfessorEchoMedia]

@@MelindaMurphy Agree completely. Both of you hosts are remarkably entertaining and produce wonderful content!

[@Plextortion]

Getting these expensive records for "Free" to review is a slippery slope. Considering the price of the Mofi and the Bellman, I doubt the Mofi is four or five times better sounding than the Bellman much less two times better though I'm sure it does sound better. Enjoy your reviews.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you for the kind compliment.🤗♥️ Receiving the promotional copies is nice but I would buy these records anyway. MoFi never asks me to do reviews and I am under no obligations. Free records are never worth lying for. These One Steps are fantastic and worth the price to me. Obviously, that's very subjective. Have a wonderful week. 🤗

[@thomosburn8740]

As a collector with thousands of LPs and CDs I have to ask is a $150 copy of a Van Halen record really 20x better than the $8 cd at Walmart? I have my doubts!

[@MelindaMurphy]

I understand that thought. Van Halen is my favorite band and these One Steps give me an experience with the music that I have never had before. For me the $125 price tag is worth what I get in return. ♥️ It's all subjective though. Thank you and take care.