Will Pink Floyd's Collectors Unicorn Pressing Beat out the Leaders of the Pack?

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The Dark Side of the Moon is the eighth studio album by the English rock band Pink Floyd, released on 1 March 1973 by Harvest Records. The album was primarily developed during live performances, and the band premiered an early version of the suite several months before recording began. The record was conceived as a concept album that would focus on the pressures faced by the band during their arduous lifestyle, and partly deal with the apparent mental health problems of former band member Syd Barrett, who departed the group in 1968. New material was recorded in two sessions in 1972 and 1973 at EMI Studios (now Abbey Road Studios) in London.
The record builds on ideas explored in Pink Floyd's earlier recordings and performances, while omitting the extended instrumentals that characterised the band's earlier work. The group employed multitrack recording, tape loops, and analogue synthesisers, including experimentation with the EMS VCS 3 and a Synthi A. Engineer Alan Parsons was responsible for many of the sonic aspects and the recruitment of singer Clare Torry, who appears on "The Great Gig in the Sky".
The Dark Side of the Moon explores themes such as conflict, greed, time, death and mental illness. Snippets from interviews with the band's road crew are featured alongside philosophical quotations. The sleeve, which depicts a prism spectrum, was designed by Storm Thorgerson in response to keyboardist Richard Wright's request for a "simple and bold" design which would represent the band's lighting and the album's themes. The album was promoted with two singles: "Money" and "Us and Them".
The Dark Side of the Moon is among the most critically acclaimed records in history, and is often featured in professional listings of the greatest albums of all time. The record helped to propel Pink Floyd to international fame, bringing wealth and plaudits to all four band members. A blockbuster release of the album era, it also propelled record sales throughout the music industry during the 1970s. The Dark Side of the Moon has been certified 14× platinum in the United Kingdom, and topped the US Billboard Top LPs & Tape chart, where it has charted for 962 weeks in total. With estimated sales of over 45 million copies, it is Pink Floyd's most commercially successful album, and one of the best-selling albums worldwide. In 2012, it was selected for preservation in the United States National Recording Registry by the Library of Congress for being deemed "culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant".

[@JasonRoxas]

Hi Michael. Enjoyed this video on DSOTM pressings. Luckily, I also own many version (including the 1st and 2nd UK OG pressings of this legendary album). I recommend getting the 30th Anniversary AAA version by Kevin Gray and Doug Sax, remaster from 2003. That version has more bass. Prominently, on the heartbeat that opens the album. 💪🏼 For all those who cannot afford the 1st UK OG pressing: I feel your pain and strongly recommend getting a 2nd, 3rd, 4th, or 5th UK pressing (these versions are affordable 🙏🏼) or the 30th Anniversary version.

[@jbsaudio]

Agreed. I own the 30th Anniversary version and it's the best sound reissue.

[@lucullus6127]

@@jbsaudio ...The 30th Anniversary Heavy Vinyl pressing is TOO BRIGHT. There is a boost in the top end, probably right around the 12K region, which is a very poor mastering choice the late Doug Sax apparently made, a choice that is surely not doing this recording any favors. In fact, in the case of this new pressing, it’s positively ruinous.

[@charlesgund4812]

@@lucullus6127 you’ve been reading too much Tom port 😂

[@inforobob]

As a point of reference, many people on the Steve Hoffman forums agree. I also believe the 30th to be one of the best overall. When my new Lyra Etna Lamda SL cartridge arrives I will endeavor to compare again the copies I have. I don't have a UK, but I have what I believe is a US first press, the original MOFI, and the 30th among others.

[@lucullus6127]

@@charlesgund4812 ... i HAVE seven (7) Hot Stampers from Better Records, purchased years ago, when prices werenot so expensive : Led Zep I ; Beatles Help ; Santana I and Three; Kind of Blue; Janis Joplin, just to name few. To make my own opinion and listen to them, and compare. How many do you have ?? I listen and collect music since the mid 70's, and the 7 Hot stampers are the best version of those albums. I used do own dozens versions from all countries ,new and vintage, and audiophile like Classic, MFSL, AP, Speaker Corner, and so on. ( Tom Port is not my friend, but for sure he knows what he's talking about) .To me there is nothing more thrilling in audio than hearing a favorite, familiar recording sound better than I ever thought it could :)

[@TrayChester01]

We need a COMPLETE release of The Wall, including the movie tracks. We need it before everyone dies!

[@ptbfrch]

2003 anniversary edition is absolutely incredible.

[@jbsaudio]

Michael, the best sounding reissue of DSOTM is the 30th Anniversary AAA version from 2003.

[@georg2935]

i have the 30th anniversary release from 2003. it‘s the last time they used the oroginal master tapes and it sounds great to me

[@StefanoCipo87]

I’m so happy to hear about the comparison with the German pressing. I have a NM German first pressing which I payed 12€ on Discogs (no jacket). So happy to hear it can compete with the A2B2. I compared it to the latest remaster and it is on another world, fresher punchier, more natural sound, more airy. However I find it a bit light on the low end, maybe just on my system. Thanks for sharing!

[@snapcracklenpop821]

The UK A2/B2 pressing is very special indeed. Everything you describe is spot on.

[@murch13]

Well the German 1st also has a2/b2 stampers. Probably why it sounds so good. I am lucky to have a German copy and it sounds incredible.

[@TheAgeOfAnalog]

I had a weird one in my store last year. It was a late 70s US repress, nothing unusual there, but after first listen, side one sounded odd. Like many others, I’ve heard DSOTM a couple hundred times. I was hearing new sounds, different L/R panning, and newly emphasized details. Come to find out, after a dig on the Hoffman forum, I learned that pressing had a quad master used for side one and a normal stereo master used for side two. 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@bbrexuk]

There is a quadraphonic pressing, my friend's dad had this and a quadraphonic hifi set up. I think that is the ultimate listening experience for this record. sit in the middle and the album revolves around you.

[@raymondmitchell7582]

Hi Michael, I enjoyed your video and passion for one of the all time classic albums. I still have my early 73 UK pressing (I live in the UK) and it is still in excellent condition after almost 50 years in my collection. It is now almost impossible to get your hands on an early 73 UK pressing, in lets say EX/NM condition without breaking the bank. I agree with a lot of the comments put up for this posting, about the 2003, 30th Anniversary pressing which I also have. And this is the one to search out, it is a wonderful version and so much better than the most recent 2016 pressing, but even this is now becoming expensive.

[@liammolyneuxmusic]

Unbelievable Michael,how exciting. Congratulations on this pressing. A true grail for sure. The bottom end is the key to these classic originals . It is something special when it blows you away, that’s why we love this hobby. A memorable video Michael 👏🏻👏🏻🙌

[@LPCLASSICAL]

I really got into Pink Floyd in 1979 when I was 15 with the Wall. I had previously heard Meddle and Wish You Were Here which I liked a lot. Oddly I did not hear DSOTM until about 1986 thinking - I wonder if it is really worth all the adulation etc. I sat back and listened - on tape I think it was - and I was absolutely gobsmacked. Still think it is the album of the century.

[@Twin_Hook]

Here's something I never realized until I watched your video. One of the two posters is oriented differently in the US original pressing. The one showing the band members has a vertical or "portrait" orientation while your original UK press has a horizontal orientation. Interesting.

[@audiophileman7047]

Congratulations on the acquisition of this extraordinary pressing, Michael! 😍 For what a UK A2/B2 DSOTM now costs, it better be stunning. I've heard many people say that the first UK A2/B2 pressing is the very best that they've ever heard. Pink Floyd is my favorite band, and I haven't heard it. I've been chasing after the best copy of The Wall by them; it's my favorite PF album and favorite rock album of all time. I have many other pressings of DSOTM that sound great, including the 30th Anniversary version. There is another version that I'm wondering about, and that's the MoFi UHQR of DSOTM. I hold out hope that Chad Kassem will reissue DSOTM as a 45 rpm UHQR as a 50th Anniversary release. If AP/QRP does press this dream album, it's very likely that it will surpass the 1st UK. 😻 Let's keep our fingers crossed for that one.

[@NickP333]

Great vid, Michael. Years back, I was searching for my favorite pressing of DSOTM and preferred the German 1st from ‘73. It’s just phenomenal sounding. The music just jumps out of the speakers and envelopes you. Thanks! 👍🔊😊🎶

[@thoronmetal108]

Great video, Michael…thank you for sharing. I have a German 1st pressing too and love it…glad you found your unicorn.

[@Souldisco]

Wow, congratulations on your finds. Great video.

[@royceinthehouse842]

Hi Michael, wow nothing I can really add but to say how much I enjoyed this brother!

[@boogiewoogie9770]

It was my first copy when I was 14. My sisters boyfriend gave it to me. I was always surprised when other copies I saw didn't have the solid light blue triangle. I have no idea what happened to it.

[@JulioIsKilluminati]

I purchased the A2/B2 U.K as a birthday gift for myself earlier this year. I have the KG cut as well as the mofi, 1st U.S and U.K quadraphonic pressings. Definitely the best, the KG is a very close 2nd!

[@kensileo8793]

Again Michael , one of the best albums of all time. I have the 30th anniversary edition, US 1st and a variety of others, pink vinyl, white vinyl. Saw the DSOTM tour in 1974 in NY. Opened with One of These Days. Did DSOTM in its entirety and closed with Echoes.Amazing experience.

[@kensileo8793]

And yes those two posters were on my wall for years.

[@wattsupaz]

Saw them at the old Roosevelt Stadium across the river from Manhattan. Were you at that one? Great show!

[@kensileo8793]

I looked it up. Nassau Coliseum Jene 1975. They opened with Raving and Drooling, did songs from Wish You Were Here-Shine on-Have a Cigar. Second set loud heartbeat got everybody back to their seats and did all DSOTM Encore was Echoes.

[@kensileo8793]

The whole first set was Wish You Were Here before it came out. Sheep was called Raving and Drooling.

[@michaellourie4252]

Since I can not afford the A2/B2, my favorites over all else are the UK A3/B3 and the German 2nd pressing which sounds absolutely awesome. These two beat the UHQR, the reg MFSL, the 30th anniversary (very very good), the Pro Use Japanese, the BG cut, etc.

[@pinkfloyd.appreciation]

Yes the A3/B3 is my favourite issue,and the French first pressing sounds great on my set up 🎸

[@DaveDenyer]

Hi Michael, great review. I have to agree with you. I have now only one DSOTM on vinyl, the A2 / B2 blue triangle version (same as yours but missing one postcard / sticker). I sold all my other copies when I got this, they all became redundant. The bass in particular is in another league to all subsequent issues IMO.

[@davidpetersen7091]

Michael, Your descriptions remind me of a German VW/Porsche mechanic I knew in Boulder, Colorado, in 1964. Manford was from Germany and he would explain how my VW motor worked. He had a passion for these cars. I was a kid, then, but could listen to him for hours on VW valves....oil changes...etc. It is always a pleasure listening to someone who "loves" what he/she does. Thanks for the review. Mr. Pete-------> aging hippie

[@onsenkuma1979]

DSOTM has always been an extraordinary album. I bought it on its release in early spring '73, but within a few weeks of it coming out it was so ubiquitous that I couldn't listen to it more than occasionally (familiarity breeds...indifference). In '79 I bought a Japanese pressing that briefly rekindled my love for the album, as did the SACD 5.1 version decades later (most recently from Analogue Productions). I don't often listen to the album in ANY format so I'm not really bothered that I don't have what most would consider a 'grail' version on vinyl, but when I do listen to it, DSOTM can still blow my mind...

[@cgarci19]

Michael, It would be nice if you can get a hold of the 30th anny pressing cut by Kevin Gray and make a comparison to the uk OG for us. 🙏🏼

[@jessesoto5175]

I so much appreciate your passion. Very genuine at 9:40.

[@Jamko1970]

I put the 30th Anniversary issue a close 2nd to the UK press.

[@vinyljoe8861]

I have own almost every release of this album. Never the UK solid triangle tho. Uhqr, mofi, germ, quad, Japan, pro use , etc. I know have a US first Wally and it near the very top of the ones I’ve owned. One day maybe I’ll get to hear this one. Thanks Michael.

[@bonesjackson81]

MANY. Haha. That was perfect. It's in the so many ya don't know what to do! I have the mofi and an EMI reissue from a few years back. I kinda stop at 2. Except Mellencamp Scarecrow I guess. Up to 3 and a 45rpm coming so 4 then. 🤪 Love your content

[@johnnyfisheyes]

I love your voice man. I feel like I am talking to a Arnold the 'Terminator" talking about DarkSide, Philosophy, insanity, life and death..Thank you.

[@myles7522]

I do enjoy your videos….thank you 👍

[@jamesk990]

You review has confirmed what I have always suspected Michael. I owned an original UK pressing as I bought it back in the early 70s but played it too much on poor set up systems and with years of knocks and scratches it became unplayable. I have since dipped my toe in the water to purchase a replacement copy and have tried some of the remasters and been massively disappointed, they all sounded washed out compared to the original. Your review has answered what I have found and therefore I feel I have only one very expensive option!

[@steveaustin7306]

Great review. Ive had the second MFSL release since it came out in 81. Been played a lot and not so dynamic. I picked up a DSD128 version that was stated it was sourced on a reel to reel 1/2" at 15ips. the detail that id never heard before was surprising. the sound stage is right there in front of you and seemingly live too.

[@Coventry_Kiers_1984]

I recently scored an almost mint 1977 U.K. press from a charity shop for £16 here in the U.K, sounds great to my ears.

[@sonicyouth29]

I would love to own that pressing. I love this album so much

[@redgePro]

A friend of mine is selling records on discogs since years. Someone from Better Records bought some german first pressings because he was searching for specific releases (he called them “hot stampers”). As far as i know! these Hot Stampers are said to sound better than the first pressings for some collectors. The first German pressings sound very good and are a real alternative. I also really like the Kevin Gray (30th Anniversary). Haven't compared it yet with my a2/b2 first pressing/blue triangle, which I bought a while ago for 10 euros.

[@audiophileman7047]

You bought a DSOTM A2/B2 First UK for 10 Euros? How long ago was that? It sure sounds like a steal at today's prices! 😻

[@casperdowlen625]

Of course the 30th anniversary edition (Which in the press of the time stated that they used the work part tapes that had not seen the light of day since 1973 at Abbey Road to do this and the SACD.) but also the Pro-Use (Toshiba)Japanese lp. Honorable mention only: the MFSL UHQR version. High levels of modulation or lack of compression can make it skip. That is probably what that was all about not a flaw.. For instance the RCA classical 1S/1S pressings made the needle jump out of the groove. Chad Kassem talks a little about this when making a master 2 track from the original 3 track tapes. This has been a holy grail for audiophiles for decades to find these, if you will, hot pressings by RCA. I have some. There is a US vinyl version of Darkside I did have at one time with different effects used in the song On The Run. Seriously, it does exist. I have brought this up in various forums and no one has followed it up. A different and maybe earlier version of the song?

[@rawheadjim]

I was on a quest a couple of years ago to find the best condition U.S. pressing I could find. After buying a few that all had pops and background noise, I decided to stop and settle for the B.G. 2016 pressing. The problem is there are so many quiet parts to this LP, finding a really clean, quiet, good pressing, is not easy. You can spend a lot since this LP has been overpriced just for average U.S. pressings for a while, an early U.K. pressing is out of reach for most of us! I'm hoping my brother will gift me his original U.S. Mo-Fi at some point.

[@stevenbrown9691]

I have the same UK blue triangle, another 1973 UK pressing, 30th anniversary and MOFI. That is the clear running order for sound. The MOFI is a league below the others. My ( late) 1973 UK pressing is the bargain of the bunch. Closest to the magic of the Blue Triangle but for 90% less money.

[@coolfurillo8169]

Great video. I have an spanish early pressing, a german reissue (must be from the late 80s), the 40th anniversary edition and the 2016 remastered edition. To my ears the spanish pressing sounds better (more natural, more depth and punch). That UK first pressing has been my main grail for some time but it is very expensive.

[@davidevans3175]

I am not a "collector", I don't care about rarities and misprinting, multiple copies, etc. I just want great sounding records of the music I love. But when it comes to DSOTM, which is may favorite album of all time, a non-collector has to enter the world of the collector to get such a killer sounding pressing. And it's not cheap! Is it worth it? Possibly!!

[@Michael45RPM]

like so often in Life: Yes and No but with a little tendency to yes :-)

[@audiophileman7047]

Sit tight. I have a feeling the very best version of DSOTM will be coming out next year as the definitive 50th Anniversary release.

[@tonynewman1694]

Great video and I have few copies but no original pressing , might need to find one 😁

[@markymo32]

Loved the video and your explanations of each version. I'd like to know the best cd's versions too. What channel/video do you recommend where they do the same kind of comparisons for Dar Side Of The Moon ?

[@mykolamisyura8107]

Cool stuff, but prices are VERY high. Auctions on eBay for NM OG go up to 2k pounds. Or even more. Full package with poster and stickers of course. But I am wondering if you can check that they are from OG, not from later reissues which are much much cheaper. Probably you can’t check it. As far as I remember, Vinyl Archivist has mentioned that later UK reissues are as good as OG if it comes to sound quality. I have 1977 UK reissue, has some small scratches but grooves are in a good shape- sounds incredible. So punchy, so wide and clear… will go and listen it one more time😊

[@brocconefius]

Hi Michael, I'm Gustavo and I'm writing to you from Barcelona, ​​greetings. I have to admit that regardless of the fact that your videos of comparisons of OG with audiophile editions I am enjoying them a lot and they support the idea that I have always had regarding the sound quality of OG pressings, they make me a little scared about what used vinyl sellers can do with the prices of these OG editions that although they have risen in price notably in the last two years they are still affordable compared to the new editions. Of course, I'm not just talking about records like the one referred to in this video, for example, I'm talking about what I normally buy and I'm sure many people tend to collect, many of them common records that were successful in the eighties for example and which millions of copies were pressed all over the world and you can even get them in €5 bin at any record fair and they make crate digging even more exciting. I think you're putting OG releases where they deserve to be but I'm scared what the used record market might do with that information.

[@paullove729]

Fantastic video

[@rodrigollanes7619]

congrats Michael! I think is "solid blue triangle"

[@TheHanniballs]

2023 will be the 50th anniversary. I'm sure there will be an UHQR or something like that announced pretty soon. That will be a strong contender for the new king on the block. Although the A2/B2 will be tough to beat. I'm sure you will do a shootout by then! I have a A3/B3 and sounds fantastic. I also like the US Wally cut very much.

[@audiophileman7047]

If Chad Kassem presses a UHQR on 45 rpm for DSOTM from the master tapes all analogue, it is very, very likely that it will beat anything that came before it.

[@R3TR0R4V3]

Really wish I could track down a 30th anniversary pressing.. I heard those sound incredible. 👍 I just have the 2016 at the moment.

[@preservedmoose]

I don't know how it compares to the OP but it is excellent. Doug Sax and Kevin Gray on the mastering duties.

[@bonesjackson81]

Thats the one I kick myself for not getting at the time. I see that alot too. I wonder?

[@Olympiakospp]

Yes the 30 Anniv is a great AAA ressue.

[@Jamko1970]

30th anniversary pressing is amazing!!!

[@JasonRoxas]

I recommend getting the 30th Anniversary version. Compared to the UK OGs (yes, I own both the light blue and non light blue triangle versions 😳) , the 30th Anniversary has more bass in the mix.

[@festersuncle6298]

I have the MOFI and the 2016 pressing and both sound great in different ways.

[@RumblestripDotNet]

I've got an original Canadian pressing which is supposed to be one of the best pressings. I can't remember who it was but they compared 5-7 different pressings and the Canadian one came out on top.

[@VagueRANT100]

UMMAGUMMA and ATOM HEART MOTHER are my cups of tea (tee hee).....Michael, does the fifty one cents copy on discogs come with FREE postage?

[@Michael45RPM]

HA!

[@christiaannoe6609]

Hello Michael. Nice video. Have you considered doing an interview with Tom Port at Better Records? I've heard you hint at the idea of Hot Stampers in other interviews. I had many versions of DSO5M and I eventually purchased a copy from Tom at Better Records (German pressing). It beat all 6 copies I had. I will admit, I have never heard the original A2/B2 pressing. Congratulations on your Holly Grail.

[@mikecoffee100]

I have all the DSOTM cept the German Version hmmmmm and a good video Thank You

[@lawrencetomczyk9677]

I remember reading, some time ago, that part of the original master tapes of DSOTM were accidentally erased by Mobile Fidelity Sound Lab

[@Matasky2010]

This album sounds great no matter what pressing it is, an excellent recording. I rarely listen to this album anymore, I wore it out 25 years ago in my teens and still haven't recovered lol..

[@deantaylor1512]

Only 25 years ago … still a youngster then ..

[@Atodaso]

I always used to hold the album upside down, as well :)

[@SingleReel]

Had to add, there are many reports from collector's that the UK second press A-3/B-3 is an equal to the First A-2/B-2 and or the best sounding pressing ever. Worth getting or investigating. I have the A-3/B-3 and it is the best I've ever heard by a good margin, although I do not have an A-2/B-2 to compare.

[@Whobythenumbers]

I’ve got this pressing as well and it stomps the mofi. Sounds better than the later early pressings as well. Can’t compare it to the a2/b2 but for the price difference I’m ok with mine.

[@mpw116]

Nice one! And dressed for the occasion. I saw Roger Waters recently and the whole band wore some form of relaxed black button up, haha.

[@ianmelville452]

Great video. I thought I had an early pressing, but after going through Discogs it's probably an early repressing. Oh well! Still sounds ok though. Can you do a video on record cleaning sometime?

[@davidbagnall335]

Great Video ! We are all happy you have a grail and it is better to own than a UK A3 B3 pressing ! Wait till you hear The Beatles Please Please Me Lp on Original Parlophone Gold, Mono. These two records always are worth more and should be an investment even in the months when vinyl records are not popular ! Grest Video !

[@MD-wk3gj]

As always, I’m loving these comparisons. Could you take it to a blind test on future comparisons? Have someone do the A/B without telling you Reissue/Original and then without knowing results wait a day or two and do your regular A/B knowing the pressings. See if you are influenced by knowing which one you play.

[@Michael45RPM]

trust me ... its more than obvious when i talk about it MD

[@mykolamisyura8107]

From my understanding, the difference is so obvious that even def will hear the difference 😂

[@MD-wk3gj]

@@Michael45RPM I agree you hear the difference but I wonder if knowing which one is original influences you to like that one better. I know from my own limited testing I’ve 100% loved the originals of the ones I’ve tested but do wonder if I’ve been pre-determined to like the original over the reissue.

[@dazaaw]

It's very easy to tell it just is better. But the 30th runs it so close..

[@shrtal]

I think that the SACD 2003 is out of the world, with all due respect to vinyl. And you can play it multi channel as well. The Blu Ray version also has the original quad mix.

[@jonathanlake6053]

Maybe you should play a track from any of your versions of DSOTM that you own so we can all hear what the differences are,& better understand what prices being asked for certain pressings relate to.

[@markusberzborn6346]

I have had the MSFL version for decades and always thought it was really good, did not miss much there. But if you say an early UK pressing is so much better maybe I will try to get one. On the other hand, I like the Pink Floyd albums before DSOTM more anyway musically. Although I recognize of course that the musical conception and the engineering of Alan Parsons are genius.

[@zundap100]

Yes same impresion here, A2/B2 is little bit more fresh and crispy sounding than any of the others pressings that I know.

[@Bozlee22]

I’m still listening to the SACD in 5.1 and will wait until next year to see if there’s a 50th anniversary pressing that is better than the rest or I should say better than the BEST which is A2-B2

[@gastelumfrank53]

The SACD version blows the 2016 Bernie Grundman version out of the water, in my opinion as well as many others it is better than the MOFI and the original 1970s versions, and of course it is a personal opinion, by the way your hearing is yours and nobody can change that.

[@Andrewslattery1984]

You should look for an Aussie SQ quad. It uses the original UK A2/B2 quad metal and sounds unbelievable. It kills the 30th anniversary. It's also relatively affordable

[@pitfisch1]

Is it really worth it to reach for the final thrill? First time i heard this one was at the attic of my best friends house. It was a philips portable recordplayer with ONE buildt in speaker. We fell in love with this record instantly. @ Those annoyed by some noises, there are some ways to reduce them.

[@jamesk990]

Hi Michael, would you kindly put a Discogs link up to the German pressing of DSOTM that you compared your British First Edition pressing too?

[@Claus-CaptainPhoenixCorner]

Good to hear your comparison - and to see how it engaged you listening to the record as if it was the band playing live in the listening room 👍 Also thanks for meeting you at Rachels Ghost's channel earlier today 🙂

[@jonathanlake6053]

I must have missed something there is no music content here at all,has this been edited?

[@al2813]

I have a UK second A3/B2 which is really great. It beat easily my A3/B3 which in turn sounded better than the 30th anniversary I was lucky to score sealed. I would have loved to compare my 2nd press to the 1st. I would be prepared to pay if the 1st was better by a margin but unfortunately I cannot find out without spending the money, so will stay curious for now 😅

[@leon9021]

The best pressings are: - UK Originals - Japanese Originals - MFSL - 30th Reissue - 2016 Reissue Ive heard pretty much all relevant pressings and these 5 are top choices, none necessarily better, just different and for certain preferences. The German seems a bit too bright for me. I would not say its typical for German pressings to have more midrange than UK originals though. There are tons of examples of German cuts having more bass, particularly in the case of 320 vs 420 masterings from Germany and the UK respectively.

[@thoronmetal108]

My German 1st pressing doesn’t sound bright at all…not for one second…it can’t stand up to the UK OGs, but I prefer it to all of the pressings mentioned above. And it’s outstanding value for money.

[@marcospaperous8451]

Mmm, I’m not agree, in my opinion (test done) better sound version is 30th anniversary

[@thomascars1]

Definitely dont agree with the Japanese original being in there, I heard one and it sucked compared to the 2016, 30th, and an MFSL.

[@leon9021]

@@thomascars1 Was it a true first press or a later one though? That makes a differences in the japanese case. Because I agree later pressings are worse, but the original japanese is very good.

[@crazyprayingmantis5596]

30th anniversary and the UK or Australian quad pressings are better than the Japanese and mofi pressings imo.

[@robertnitsche8410]

Michael, i've really been enjoying your new (slightly) format. I would like you to do a similar comparison with all the different releases of the Alan Parsons Project I Robot. I have most of them, I guess you could say it's in my top 5 favorite albums.. I just played the 77 Arista OG, and I think it holds it's own against the other versions. Still on the fence about getting the upcoming MOFI One-Steps.

[@theheepster]

I have the 30th Anniversary Edition from 2003 and the German first Pressing. The German first is really great, but the 30th Anniversary is better, more punch and soundstage. I love both. A good copy of the UK First burn holes in your wallet. Great comparison, Michael.

[@cynthiamayes4463]

I did buy this box set PINK FLOYD - ANIMALS from The In Groove I have been buying vinyl records since 1966 and all through this time period, I have never had to cleaned records or they sound bad or they have been pre scratched. I can pull out any record from the 70's and they did not come with scratches and dirt and a warning like this: IMPORTANT NOTE: We are experiencing a very HIGH defect rate on this LP. Around 40% of copies have shown signs of defects. The addition of the Ultrasonic Cleaning and examination service at time of purchase is strongly recommended . We will no longer provide a paid-postage return label on this item. I believe this is bigger than the MOFI story, The In Groove, brought up and caused so much drama about to me if we buy any product we should be protected from imperfections from manufacturers and folks as The In Groove, selling records for profit. I did buy this $100 album set and it does have scratches and crackle, pop... white noise. I also bought Little Feat - live ( with the hype of great sound) and this too had bad sound, at the time they did not have a replacement (so I ate that one) note: my original sounds great without cleaning it ever. All in all The In Groove record store are doing a some what good job selling things but if they can't stand with or behind their product. Their reputation will be tarnished similar to MOFI If they think they are doing anyone a favor with cleaning new records out of the sleeve for $8 think again. To me its not the cost of the $8 but the "why" do we need too or we get no recourse and have to pay shipping too. Maybe as a dealer they should put pressure on the record companies as Mike and you did with MOFI, why stop now. If you where to buy a new car and the hood was scratched and the dealer told you you would have to pay shipping back to Detroit because he had a disclaimer in the show room you read or not . Tell me... what you would do?

[@Michael45RPM]

STRONG Points Cynthia

[@talktomenowxbmc]

It seems that DSOTM was remastered pretty much for every edition and reissue of the album including CD releases. Wikipedia has lengthy list of them.

[@BigSky1]

The original also comes with a round sticker or hype sticker on the front cover which says Pink Floyd The Dark Side Of The Moon In that format.

[@hubertschneider4778]

I bought the first british pressing (solid light blue triangle) about 30 years ago in a very small record shop in Straßbourg, France for 20 Francs. The condition is absolutely fine, no scratches, no hairlines. Only the inserts (Poster, Postcards) are missed. Some years ago I read in an article that this pressing is a holy grail in the discography of Pink Floyd. The sound is really stunning and one of the best in record history. But the prices for originals are overrated nowadays; this was a massproduct from EMI and is not a real rarity.

[@thomasraven]

I bought a mofi copy in the 80s and it sounded great, but not significantly better than the standard pressing, so I sold it when the prices skyrocketed. No loss IMHO.

[@gerry1970may3]

What about the 30th anniversary Re-Issue AAA analogue ?? Is not on this to be compared??

[@TheRollingStoness]

I listen back back between UK A2B2 Matrix, 70s limited edition UHQR MOFI, Stan Ricker master....all are awesome..can't decide which is better, depend on the humidity in the air, my room, my system....my aging ears.. every human, regardles of music fan or or, must own this in any physical form, universal rule.( even tho some claim Syd Barrett era albums are their favorite!!!!)

[@davidchan2960]

I think we should also give credit to someone who helped put together this album - Mr. Alan Parsons.

[@tonyboyd796]

Hi Michael I'm quite new to vinyl and your channel. I really enjoy listening to you describe music. My question for you is: Doesn't vinyl degrade with time and plays in a similar way to tape? How can OG pressings sound so good 50 years later? Are the pressings you listen to unplayed mint condition? Or does vinyl not degrade over time and plays? Just curious.

[@Michael45RPM]

If you take care it does not!

[@hennietaljaard9096]

My South African first press sounds very good.

[@lucullus6127]

A2/B2 solid blue triangle ; not light ;)) By the way i have a Japan 1st pressing ( EOP-80778) , it has the "solid blue triangle" too, and it really sounds great (Money is out of this world,how BIG it sounds), as good as, if not even better than my NM UK A-3 B-3 , and the 2nd german (1976) A-2 / B-2 is great too, side two is really Hot , bigger than the UK !! (you can still find the Japan 1st in NM condition for less than 100 Euro !) Have sold my MFSL years ago, same with the 30th Anniversary ( too bright ): Breathe is my favorite test track for side one for any version of Dark Side Of The Moon, Half-Speed or otherwise. When the voices come in about halfway through the song, you can tell that most copies are too bright simply by listening to the vocals on this track. The cymbals might sound wonderful; lots of other instruments might sound wonderful; and there might be plenty of ambience, detail and transparency. But all of that counts for nothing if the voices don’t sound right. And on most copies the voices sound bright, aggressive, grainy and transitory. (This is the case with the 180 gram 30th Anniversary Edition )

[@nevertrustasuit]

My 2016 pressing is absolutely fantastic.

[@crazyprayingmantis5596]

Until you compare it to something better ☺️

[@Joker-kh6fw]

Hallo Michael. Can you send the link of the German 1st press because there are a lot... Thank's Jürgen

[@You_Do_Have_The_Power_33]

Only owning a vintage US pressing but knowing the album well, I have to wonder if the best segment of the album to compare specifically is the transition of the end of “Breathe” into “On The Run”- to me “On The Run” is already such a sonically rich and “fat” segment, it just seems like that segment in particular would be the best when comparing.. Anyone else have any insights as far as good specific sections for comparing one pressing to another?

[@vinylfinder33]

Michael, you need to hunt down the Japanese Pro-Use version. In my opinion the best audiophile version of this masterpiece. Came out in 1978. Amazing soundstage amd clarity. I compared to mofi version and several others. It was not even close. Japanese all the way.

[@michaellourie4252]

I have never heard the UK quad, which Patrick seems to like. I have a New Zealand copy, but I do not know if it is in the same ballpark as the UK in terms of soundstage, etc. Has anyone heard these two Quad mixes to know if the NZ press stands up to UK? Thanks.

[@Michael45RPM]

i said that not all of them have the skip

[@michaellourie4252]

@@Michael45RPM I apologize...my bad...I missed that. I will go edit that away! Thank You for setting me straight:)

[@michaellourie4252]

@@Michael45RPM I apologize, as I missed that somehow....my bad. Thank you for setting me straight.) I have edited all that out.

[@Andrewslattery1984]

The NZ and Aussie Quads use the UK A2/B2 UK stampers. They're unbelievable

[@michaellourie4252]

@@Andrewslattery1984 Thank You so much for that info!!! Terrific. Mine is a NZ.

[@tkffin]

Fine vid as usual I’ll go further mist early releases are also much better than most new ones So you can avoid silly prices. Any Hendrix followers wanting to avoid shocking electric ladyland axis OG prices. Try the twin pack from 1971 ? Friend got for £40 U don’t get the separate albums But vinyl is Superb both very very close to my originals. He’s bringing a French 1st of fun house later He claims is the finest recorded album he’s got.

[@gratefultom4210]

Michael, make a new video about Dark side… when you can compare all the 1.165 different versions. That will be finally interesting…

[@tiborosz1825]

Hello Sir! Quick question since you are an expert. I'm a new vonyl addict xnd wonder if slight dish warping is normal or acceptable? I noticed parlaphone vinyl is guilty of this.

[@Michael45RPM]

Not aceptable!

[@Carrera6rennsport]

This is an incomplete comparison without the Kevin Gray cut for the 30th Anniv. ed released in '03. IMHO its 2nd only to the UK 1st press.

[@mdenny264]

What do you think of the 30th version. It is one of the prevert of Mike

[@bbrexuk]

also the cover of that first pressing isn't black, Its actually dark indigo. "not a lot of people know that" in a michael caine voice. I tested that on my copy by lightly rubbing a bit off on a piece of paper, and yeah, not black, all later pressings and foreign pressings are black. weird eh? I think they wanted to create that special first press from the outset. create that special first artifact. In my old shop I once had a taiwanese pressing that was truly awful, a phillipines copy that had a different track order, and a few other oddities. so many different versions, but as you said, its such a banger, it is kind of hard to spoil the listening experience. unless its a 8 track or 70s cassette tape..... I'm curious what a reel to reel version sounds like?

[@traviskelly601]

You need to the Japanese Pro Use LP Michael.

[@Atodaso]

I would rip that to .flac or DSD asap :) What a treasure :) Congratulations!

[@deantaylor1512]

I’m lead to believe the 30th anniversary is very system dependent… The recent 2016 is fabulous bank for you buck and a lot less fussy then the 30th …I have both and the emi centenary edition (direct metal master) will have to sit down one day and do my own shoot out ..

[@crazyprayingmantis5596]

The 30th anniversary destroys the 2016 pressing. But if you have a crosley and a pair of $15 plastic speakers you probably won't hear a difference in any pressing

[@deantaylor1512]

@@crazyprayingmantis5596 reread my comment and then go get a life …