AudioCircle

Audio/Video Gear and Systems => The HiRez Music Circle => Topic started by: ted_b on 8 Jun 2009, 05:00 pm

Title: Mini-Review: Favorite SACD or DVD-Audio disc
Post by: ted_b on 8 Jun 2009, 05:00 pm
This is a dedicated thread for anyone/everyone to list his/her favorite SACD or DVD-Audio.  The disc can be stereo only or multichannel.
Let's follow a template that has some quantitative and qualitative information:
- audio format (SACD, DVD-Audio)
- number of channels supported (2.0, 5.1, etc.)
- label (i.,e Chesky, Telarc, etc.)
- audio quality (describe the audio in audio terms.  How is the clarity, bass, soundstage, surround effects if relevant, tonality, etc.)
- video extras (DVD-A only) (only need to mention if noteworthy or part of your decision why this disc made this list)

This is not a thread for debating who's is better; leave that to your own created threads.  This is a sticky for referencing top quality discs only.

Title: Re: Mini-Review: Favorite SACD or DVD-Audio disc
Post by: Jah-Hey! on 7 Aug 2009, 08:43 pm
Neil Young's 'Chrome Dream II' has a song "Ordinary People" that is one Young's best loooong jam songs. It has cool lyrics and great instrumentation...I'm still listening to the rest of the album; but, the purchase was worth it for this song.
Following the template:
DVD-V or CD
2.0 channels with Video
Reprise Records
I give the sound quality an A-/B+ Album has great sound/stage separation and transparency.
Title: Re: Mini-Review: Favorite SACD or DVD-Audio disc
Post by: ted_b on 7 Aug 2009, 08:54 pm
OK, this was initially a thread that i specified for SACD and DVD-A only.  However, being that it has not been posted on until now (which is neither an SACD nor a DVD-Audio disc) I'll extend it to DVD-Video's like this Neil Young release (which has 24/96 PCM stereo).  Only review the hirez portion.  Thanks.

Jah-Hey,
Welcome to AC.  I assume your sound quality report card is based on the 24/96 hiRez content, right?
Title: Re: Mini-Review: Favorite SACD or DVD-Audio disc
Post by: Jah-Hey! on 7 Aug 2009, 09:19 pm
Thanks.
I listened in the 24/96 mode, yes.
This Neil Young song is more complex and has more anthemic rock hooks than "Harvest" (DVD-A), IMHO.

Title: Re: Mini-Review: Favorite SACD or DVD-Audio disc
Post by: FullRangeMan on 7 Aug 2009, 09:38 pm
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=21001)
This is my favorite SACD afew months, John Dowland-Complete Solo Lute Music BIS SACD-1724 with Jacob Lindberg(lute). 
http://www.sa-cd.net/showtitle/5483
Stereo only, Single Layer, 92 tracks, 4 hours and 15 minutes of sweet music, recorded in PCM in 1994.  Very good sound in a exemplary performance in a Lute with gut strings, not strident steel strings as Nigel North use to play. A must if you play Guitar or Bass etc...
Very recommended to educate children and babies before they are used with aggressive Pop-Rock music.
Just 21 dollars at Amazon USA.

P.S.: Mr.Robert(BIS) informed all the PCM masters of the vintage BIS catalogue are upsampled before the DSD mastering.
I Highly Recommend this BIS ultra long time SACDs series.   You can listen samples at the BIS Site in the Link below:
http://www.bis.se/index.php?op=album&aID=BIS-SACD-1724
Title: Re: Mini-Review: Favorite SACD or DVD-Audio disc
Post by: jsaliga on 14 Sep 2009, 12:41 pm
Khachaturian: Gayne Ballet Suite - Anatole Fistoulari/London Symphony Orchestra

(http://www.indierockfan.net/pics/Everest_Khachaturian_Gayne_Suite.jpg)

This 1960 recording was sourced from 35mm magnetic film and it ranks among the finest analog source recordings I have ever heard.  This package includes a redbook CD at 16bit/44.1KHz (not of particular interest in this thread), and a double sided DVD-10 that contains the hirez content.  On one side there is a 24bit/96Hz stereo recording that will play on any DVD player.  On the other side there is a 24bit/192KHz stereo recording that will only play on DVD-A players.  I use a Denon DVD-5910CI as my main DVD-A and SACD source.  I have only listened to the 24/192 side and I will say that it left me speechless.  The recording is extremely detailed and remains cohesive even when the sonics get dense.  Classic Records has been reissuing a number of Everest 35mm magnetic film recordings on DVD-A.  I purchased several of them and have yet to be disappointed.  If you are a classical music lover then I highly recommend that you consider these recordings.  They will set you back from between $24 to $29 each depending on who you order from.  I bought mine from Acoustic Sounds.

--Jerome
Title: Re: Mini-Review: Favorite SACD or DVD-Audio disc
Post by: ted_b on 14 Sep 2009, 01:31 pm
Jerome,
I thoroughly enjoy your synopsis/reviews over on the Omega music thread.   Welcome to the HiRez Circle.  Questions:
1)  Did you listen to this (and the others) in 2 channel only, or did you try the 3 channel 24/96 tracks too?
2)  Will you review the others you've heard?

Thanks
Title: Re: Mini-Review: Favorite SACD or DVD-Audio disc
Post by: jsaliga on 14 Sep 2009, 02:13 pm
Hi Ted,

Thanks for the compliment and warm welcome.  I think this thread is a great idea and was a little surprised not to see more participation.

I'm a two-channel guy.  Several years ago I used to have a 5.1 setup but much of the multichannel content availabile just didn't catch fire with me.  Recently I finished a complete rebuild of my two-channel setup (actually a dedicated headphone setup and a dedicated loudspeaker rig).

There are a number of other Everest 35mm recordings on DVD-A that I'll be doing mini-reivews of here, and I'll be happy to toss in some recommendations of other hirez content that I feel might be of interest to folks who hang out in the HiRez Circle.  I'm mainly a jazz, classical, and rock fan...in that order.

--Jerome
Title: Re: Mini-Review: Favorite SACD or DVD-Audio disc
Post by: jsaliga on 16 Sep 2009, 02:53 pm
Ronald Brautigam - Beethoven: Complete Works for Solo Piano Volume 2

(http://www.indierockfan.net/pics/Brautigam_BeethovenSonatas2.jpg)

I know a few people that have 15 or more complete Beethoven piano sonata cycles.  I'm not one of them though.  I have three on CD and two on vinyl.  I love the music to be sure, but Beethoven has to compete with my other musical interests so my goals have been pretty much met with what I already have.  Most of the performances I have are on the piano, but this one by Ronald Brautigam is on fortepiano.  I won't use this space to go into the differences other than to say that the fortepiano has slightly softer tonal qualities and notes decay faster than on a piano.  Treble sparkles more and bass is not as thunderous as the piano...you can google for the details if you really want the specifics.  According to the label on the disc there is a mutichannel program, but I have only listened to the SACD stereo content.  It really is fabulous.  The intonation sounds spot on to me and the recording is extremely detailed.  This does great credit to represent the unique sonic character of the fortepiano.  The performance by Brautigam is equal to the marvelous sound quality of the recording.  If you have never heard a fortepiano then it will take a little getting used to, but the performance and sound quality here are so delightfully good that making the adjustment should be a joy.  I can't recommend these SACDs enough.

--Jerome
Title: Re: Mini-Review: Favorite SACD or DVD-Audio disc
Post by: ted_b on 16 Sep 2009, 04:28 pm
Jerome,
Thanks.  I listened to some of Vol 1 on Rhapsody just to get a lowrez feel.  Very nice.  Do you like Vol 2 the best or just used this volume as an example?
Title: Re: Mini-Review: Favorite SACD or DVD-Audio disc
Post by: jsaliga on 16 Sep 2009, 04:32 pm
Hi Ted.  I just used Volume 2 as an example; the entire series is very worthwhile.

--Jerome
Title: Re: Mini-Review: Favorite SACD or DVD-Audio disc
Post by: jsaliga on 19 Sep 2009, 04:15 pm
Dead Can Dance - Spleen and Ideal

(http://www.indierockfan.net/pics/DCD_Spleen_And_Ideal.jpg)

In my book Brendan Perry and Lisa Gerrard can do no wrong.  They formed the backbone of Dead Can Dance for about 15 years, and it was a loss to music lovers when they stopped recording together with the release of their final album, Spiritchaser in 1996.  While their music is resistant to categorization, it has been described as having its origins in the Middle Ages, while appealing to world and pop music sensibilities.  I suppose that's as good a description as any.  But like most non-traditional music, you really have to experience some of it to get a handle on what its all about.  Spleen and Ideal is a critically acclaimed entry in the DCD catalog.  It is musically moving and astonishingly well recorded.  This release is part of a limited run on Hybrid Stereo SACD by 4AD, and the remastering is courtesy of Mobile Fidelity.  The sonics can get somewhat dense in this recording and in my opinion it benefits considerably from the DSD treatment.  Be advised that this recording will reveal weaknesses in your setup, especially in the low frequencies.  The entire set of SACDs was issued in a boxed set but I think these are getting more difficult to find because supplies are limited.  However, Acoustic Sounds still has some single discs left and if you enjoy Dead Can Dance then I strongly suggest you snag these SACDs while you can.

--Jerome
Title: Re: Mini-Review: Favorite SACD or DVD-Audio disc
Post by: jsaliga on 20 Sep 2009, 02:18 pm
Sibelius Violin Concerto in D Minor - Tauno Hannikainen/Tossy Spivakovsky/London Symphony Orchestra

(http://www.indierockfan.net/pics/Everest_35-SibeliusViolin.jpg)

This is another strong entry in the Classic Records series of Everest 35mm magnetic tape reissues on DVD-A.  As with the other titles in this series there is a double-sided DVD-10.  On one side there is a 24/96 stereo recording and on the other a 24/192 stereo recording.  I have only listened to the latter.  The Sibelius Violin Concerto ranks among my favorite concertos for violin.  The recording is vivid and detailed, as are all the recordings in this series that I have listened to so far.  While Tossy Spivakovsky, as the featured voilinist, never achieved the level of fame and renown as some of his peers, namely Jascha Heifetz and Isaac Stern, his performance here nothing less than brilliant.  I can equally recommend the other Spivakovsky appearance on the Everest 35mm reissue series on DVD-A in a performance of the Tchaikovksy Violin Concerto in D Major with Walter Goehr conducting the London Symphony Orchestra.  It's spellbinding.

I think now would be a good time to qualify some of my comments.  As you may or may not have noticed, I have a strong preference for historical recordings.  Indeed, I own very few classical music performances that were recorded after 1975.  The vast majority of them were recorded between 1950 and 1965.  I tend to favor music issued by the RCA Victor, Mercury Living Presence, Everest, and Decca labels.  The reason for this is simply a matter of preference.  There are some very good, even excellent contemporary performances and recordings.  Some of them are in my music library, but my focus with classical music is still with historic recordings that were originally recorded on analog tape.  A lot of the recordings that I find breathtaking will have a little bit of tape hiss.  Some people can't stand it, and I can appreciate that.  I have a library of about 300 1/4" 4-track stereo tapes and still use reel-to-reel rather regularly, so tape hiss is usually not a problem for me up to a certain point.  If it is a big issue for you then you may want to think twice before buying any of the classical recordings that I am recommending here.  While 35mm magnetic film has a lower noise floor and less tape hiss than other tape media, it does not eliminate it completely.  I just wanted to get that out there before someone bought one of these recordings and found the tiny amount of tape hiss present to be insufferable.

--Jerome
Title: Re: Mini-Review: Favorite SACD or DVD-Audio disc
Post by: rpf on 22 Sep 2009, 03:56 am
(http://)

Choral Works for 40 Voices. A Hybrid Multi-Channel SACD in 2 and 5 channels on the Harmonia Mundi label. Beautiful music, very well recorded (clarity and sound-staging are exceptional). Different microphone arrangements were used "in accordance with the spatial dispositions of the works on the programme" and are diagrammed in the booklet.

My favorite is "Spem In Alium" a gorgeous tour de force from the 16th century that is stunningly dimensional and spacious even in two channel (which is all I have). I have heard this in a multi-channel system consisting of large Von Schweikerts (VR6s and 7s and more) in an approximately 25 x 40 x 14 foot room. Heavenly is the only word that can convey the result.
Title: Re: Mini-Review: Favorite SACD or DVD-Audio disc
Post by: Hank on 4 Feb 2010, 05:55 pm
Jerome, thank you for your effort here.  I think I'll order the Khachaturian.
Title: Re: Mini-Review: Favorite SACD or DVD-Audio disc
Post by: golfugh on 1 Apr 2010, 11:31 pm
I know not everyone is an Elton John fan, but I have several/most of his SACD's and my favorite by far is "Honky Chateau."  Among all of the ones I own this one holds a lot of sentimental value due to the "Rocket Man" track.  I had a good friend of mine killed in an F-15C accident in 1992 and he was known as Rocket Man.....well there you have it!  Great 2-channel and 5.1 multi-channel recording, as are almost all of Elton John's releases.

Elton John-Honky Chateau
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/510TCKRSJ1L._SL500_AA300_.jpg)

Mark
Title: Re: Mini-Review: Favorite SACD or DVD-Audio disc
Post by: Ronm1 on 26 Jun 2010, 09:37 pm

Here are a couple from me to start off, cause I have more.

Saxophone Colossus, Way Out West - Sonny Rollins
Art Pepper meets the Rhythm Section
These three are 192/24 2ch only and are superbly remastered 60's sessions and IMHO up to now the
definitive releases of these sessions, and I have these in just about every format imaginable.
These were done with JVC's K2 h/w tweaked for dvda's 2ch 192/24 spec. They are JP imports only but if you can find them run don't walk to pick them up.  Older great lp's rarely get remastered as good as this, IMHO of course.
Title: Re: Mini-Review: Favorite SACD or DVD-Audio disc
Post by: ted_b on 27 Jun 2010, 01:29 am
Here are a couple from me to start off, cause I have more.

Saxophone Colossus, Way Out West - Sonny Rollins
Art Pepper meets the Rhythm Section
These three are 192/24 2ch only and are superbly remastered 60's sessions and IMHO up to now the
definitive releases of these sessions, and I have these in just about every format imaginable.
These were done with JVC's K2 h/w tweaked for dvda's 2ch 192/24 spec. They are JP imports only but if you can find them run don't walk to pick them up.  Older great lp's rarely get remastered as good as this, IMHO of course.

RonM, couldn't agree more.  Although those Japanese DVD-A's have been out of print for some time they show up on Ebay every once in awhile.  The good news, though, is that each (I think WOW is) are available as an SACD and sound superb that way too.  I also came across a Japanese jazz DVD-A sampler called Best Jazz Sound, and it has a 24/192 from Sax Collossus and Pepper Meets Rythm.  The quality of those two cuts blow away any redbook version I've heard.
Title: Re: Mini-Review: Favorite SACD or DVD-Audio disc
Post by: golfugh on 28 Jun 2010, 11:31 pm
Well, I picked up 2 SACD's with the Elusive Disk Sale (actually a lot more than 2) and I have to say these are phenomenal.  An eclectic mix of country, folk, indie rock - Nickel Creek.  Both are exceptional from a sonics, 2-channel and multichannel standpoint.  Incredible vocals and instrumentals.

Nickel Creek-Nickel Creek
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/414G42B0ANL._SL500_AA300_.jpg)

Nickel Creek-This Side
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/418R6DWX4CL._SL500_AA300_.jpg)

Mark

Edit:  Just wanted to add that these 2 SACD's are excellent, extremely well recorded and a joy to listen to.
Title: Re: Mini-Review: Favorite SACD or DVD-Audio disc
Post by: Phil A on 29 Jun 2010, 03:04 am
I really like Sara K's "Hell or High Water" (on SACD) on Stockfish records.  I picked it up some time ago.  Imaging and sonics are really nice.  Also picked up some time ago is Greta Matassa "Live at Tula's" on SACD.  It is a realistic live recording in either two or multi-channel
Title: Re: Mini-Review: Favorite SACD or DVD-Audio disc
Post by: In The Groove on 14 Jul 2010, 02:08 am
I really like Sara K's "Hell or High Water" (on SACD) on Stockfish records.  I picked it up some time ago.  Imaging and sonics are really nice.  Also picked up some time ago is Greta Matassa "Live at Tula's" on SACD.  It is a realistic live recording in either two or multi-channel

The Sara K is nice.

My choice would be the new Aja Japanese SHM-SACD.  The John Hammond Rough and Tough is also stellar.
Title: Re: Mini-Review: Favorite SACD or DVD-Audio disc
Post by: Ronm1 on 15 Jul 2010, 07:36 pm
Well, I picked up 2 SACD's with the Elusive Disk Sale (actually a lot more than 2) and I have to say these are phenomenal.  An eclectic mix of country, folk, indie rock - Nickel Creek.  Both are exceptional from a sonics, 2-channel and multichannel standpoint.  Incredible vocals and instrumentals.

Nickel Creek-Nickel Creek
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/414G42B0ANL._SL500_AA300_.jpg)

Nickel Creek-This Side
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/418R6DWX4CL._SL500_AA300_.jpg)

Mark

Edit:  Just wanted to add that these 2 SACD's are excellent, extremely well recorded and a joy to listen to.

I've had these for awhile, the sonics/performance are topshelf.  Well done recordings.
Title: Re: Mini-Review: Favorite SACD or DVD-Audio disc
Post by: golfugh on 3 Sep 2010, 11:23 pm
Just got this in from Elusive Disc, absolutely exceptional sonics!  Nice eclectic mix of Celtic folk music, bluegrass, Mexican music and country music.  Vancouver based Canucks!  Outstanding!!  2CH SACD.


(http://www.elusivedisc.com/images/SFSA4054-Large.jpg)

Just as a point of reference; the CD layer is excellent also for those ripping the CD layer!
Title: Re: Mini-Review: Favorite SACD or DVD-Audio disc
Post by: ted_b on 4 Sep 2010, 02:27 am
Mark,
Thanks.  All the Stockfisch stuff is extremely well-recorded, with lots of texture, including Sara K (Water Falls, etc.).
Title: Re: Mini-Review: Favorite SACD or DVD-Audio disc
Post by: Phil A on 4 Sep 2010, 02:31 am
The Sara K is nice.

My choice would be the new Aja Japanese SHM-SACD.  The John Hammond Rough and Tough is also stellar.

I have Aja on the way with a couple of other SHMs.  I just got Sara K's "Made in the Shade" on SACD  It was on backorder for about 6 months at Acoustic Sounds.  Only played through it once but it is really good.
Title: Re: Mini-Review: Favorite SACD or DVD-Audio disc
Post by: Brandon B on 12 Oct 2010, 01:46 am
Well, I picked up 2 SACD's with the Elusive Disk Sale (actually a lot more than 2) and I have to say these are phenomenal.  An eclectic mix of country, folk, indie rock - Nickel Creek.  Both are exceptional from a sonics, 2-channel and multichannel standpoint.  Incredible vocals and instrumentals.

Nickel Creek-Nickel Creek
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/414G42B0ANL._SL500_AA300_.jpg)

Nickel Creek-This Side
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/418R6DWX4CL._SL500_AA300_.jpg)

Mark

Edit:  Just wanted to add that these 2 SACD's are excellent, extremely well recorded and a joy to listen to.

A second double ++ on these.  I was really bummed when the dropped SACD support with their third album (albeit still a beautifully produced RBCD).

There is also an SACD by the middle guy Chris Thile of his solo stuff that technically is just as good, although I do not enjoy the songs as much musically.

Also quite like the Ultimate Mancini SACD.  Probably the disk with the best surround payoff of any of mine.

Title: Re: Mini-Review: Favorite SACD or DVD-Audio disc
Post by: golfugh on 21 Sep 2011, 10:19 pm
Well I've been on a buying binge of late, trying to further build my DVD-A/SACD library.  I have a DVD-A I'd like to mention, it's not for everyone...it's dadgum near elevator music.  The sonics and sound quality are phenomenal, soft jazz at it's best.  The multi-channel mix is exceptional!  The 24/96 2-channel rip is equal to the multi-channel mix.

Mark

Yes...it's Fourplay

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=51558)

Wrote this up while listening to Dead Can Dance - Into the Labyrinth, how's that for eclectic taste



Title: Re: Mini-Review: Favorite SACD or DVD-Audio disc
Post by: Goosepond on 21 Sep 2011, 11:54 pm
I love smooth jazz. I bought an Esoteric CDP here on AC recently, mostly because it was a SACD player. It can also play DVD-A but I don't have any.

So where could I find this Fourplay?

Thanks,

Gene
Title: Re: Mini-Review: Favorite SACD or DVD-Audio disc
Post by: golfugh on 22 Sep 2011, 12:00 am
Amazon:  http://www.amazon.com/Fourplay/dp/B00005ATM6/ref=mb_oe_d

Buy the used one at $24.99
Title: Re: Mini-Review: Favorite SACD or DVD-Audio disc
Post by: Goosepond on 22 Sep 2011, 12:10 am
I just it put it in my cart at Amazon before I came back to see your reply. I emailed the seller to make sure it was the DVD-A version.

Thanks,

Gene

Amazon:  http://www.amazon.com/Fourplay/dp/B00005ATM6/ref=mb_oe_d

Buy the used one at $24.99
Title: Re: Mini-Review: Favorite SACD or DVD-Audio disc
Post by: griff2 on 29 Jan 2012, 10:10 pm
Jonie Mitchel - Both Sides Now on DVD-A.  Straight to the heart, beautiful.
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=57165)

Title: Re: Mini-Review: Favorite SACD or DVD-Audio disc
Post by: ted_b on 29 Jan 2012, 10:15 pm
Griff2, agreed 1000%.  I love how Joni figured out how to use her changed voice over the years. 

Just 2 weeks ago at CES Gus Skinas (Super Audio Center) played us his original tapes (analog to DSD) from this session.  Sublime!!
Title: Re: Mini-Review: Favorite SACD or DVD-Audio disc
Post by: CMYKjill on 24 Feb 2012, 09:31 pm
I really enjoy Alan Parsons SACD On Air. Apollo is GREAT.
Title: Re: Mini-Review: Favorite SACD or DVD-Audio disc
Post by: djmckaytx on 24 Feb 2012, 10:48 pm

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=58501)

Just fantastic to listen to...and doesn't suck sonically.   :D
Title: Re: Mini-Review: Favorite SACD or DVD-Audio disc
Post by: RocketMan50 on 30 Dec 2012, 04:12 pm
Being a classic rock junky, my favs are:
Eagles - Hotel California (DVD-A)
Dire Straights - Brothers in Arms (DVD-A)
The Who - Tommy (SACD)

All are 5.1 with accompanying Stereo mixes
Title: Re: Mini-Review: Favorite SACD or DVD-Audio disc
Post by: bplexico on 1 May 2013, 04:02 am
Boy this one has not gotten as much milage as I would have liked! I would love to know how that Donald Fagan SACD sounds, or other SACDs worth the purchase price. I have the entire DOORS vinyl re-issues from Analog Productions, are the SACDs of similar quality? I would love to know. What other great music on SACD am I missing?

And to be fair and equitable, I will post my list of SACDs I know and love shortly...

But here is a teaser:

Aimee Mann - any of her SACDs
Nora Jones - any of her SACDs - though Danger Mouse stuff is on the cusp of investment versus reward
Dire Straits - any of their SACDS - though anything they do on any medium is usually well recorded ( a theme here for the SACDS?)
Jim Hall - Concerto - though I need to hear this on a really good DAC that can do DSD - the vinyl is great.
Bill Evans - all of his SACDS seem very well recorded and hey, it's Bill!
Yes - Close to the Edge - huge Yes fan. Also love their Fragile on DVD-A
Talking Heads - I love them too - Remain in Light DVD-A sounds very good.
Jeff Beck - Blow by Blow - SACD - sublime.
Pink Floyd - Analog Production SACD - Wonderful.


More to come..

Barr
Title: Re: Mini-Review: Favorite SACD or DVD-Audio disc
Post by: Brandon on 6 Oct 2013, 12:31 am
First post - registered after a week of confusing myself with how I'm going to get affordably into computer digital audio, preferably including (exclusively?) DSD. While I was doing that, I heard the sad news on radio that Osmo Vanska is leaving the Minnesota Orchestra due to their long-drawn out strike. It was two of their newest recordings on BIS that's pushed me to venture back into the audiophile world...  So these will be my recommendation.

A friend just got a new pair of Quads, so I grabbed a representative variety of my favourite SACDs (and one or two CDs) and headed over. The one I played right through - because I couldn't possibly stop it! - was the Sibelius 5. That was a month ago, and I still haven't recovered. Totally gob-smacked. I always knew BIS had good sound, but this was  a shock: the #1 audiophile experience of my life.  (And I'm not young, having been in the music business in one way or another for 40+ years, not counting music student years before that.)

Tremendously musically involving, fine sound stage and unbelievable detail. Your ears can wander right into and around the orchestra... I've heard many, many live orchestral (and other) concerts in many great halls, but never an acoustic that drew me so totally into the music. And few performances of any music as involving.

So the disc is Osmo Vanska conducting the Minnesota Orchestra in Sibelius Symphonies 2 & 5 on BIS SACD-1986. This is a 2011 recording, but BIS still records in PCM 24.96 and converts to DSD in post. The last few weeks I got the second volume in the proposed (but now perhaps aborted) cycle: Sibelius 1 & 4 on BIS SACD-1996. I was always a fan of the 5th, and 1 & 2 are always popular, but #4 never really got me before. This performance and recording do, and the 4th is becoming my new favourite. A performance and recording that "sells" a work you didn't much care about before is always a good thing.

<http://www.prestoclassical.co.uk/r/BIS/BIS1996>
<http://www.arkivmusic.com/classical/album.jsp?album_id=885951>
Title: Re: Mini-Review: Favorite SACD or DVD-Audio disc
Post by: Rob50 on 19 Oct 2014, 08:26 pm
I have something in the region of 130 + SACD / DVD-A titles. Two discs I constantly come back to are, "Yo-yo Ma plays Ennio Morricone, ( M/C SACD ) the music speaks for it's self ! I also like Mark Knopfler's, "Shangri La" ( M/C SACD )
Title: Re: Mini-Review: Favorite SACD or DVD-Audio disc
Post by: Rob50 on 19 Oct 2014, 08:29 pm
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=58501)

Just fantastic to listen to...and doesn't suck sonically.   :D

+1 ( A sonic joy !! )
Title: Re: Mini-Review: Favorite SACD or DVD-Audio disc
Post by: ted_b on 19 Oct 2014, 08:41 pm
Agreed; I think the DVD-A is even better transfer, but nit picking (I have both).  Kamakiriad is an even better mch mix.
Title: Re: Mini-Review: Favorite SACD or DVD-Audio disc
Post by: jimdgoulding on 19 Oct 2014, 08:50 pm
BIS in a fine label with fine engineers.  I have several.  ALL of the Scandanavian labels with which I am familiar make realistic and excellent recordings.  Mine are all vinyl, however.
Title: Re: Mini-Review: Favorite SACD or DVD-Audio disc
Post by: windhoek on 7 Mar 2015, 05:23 pm
Although I wouldn't go so far as to say it's my favourite SACD and possibly not my favourite classical SACD, Zander's Grammy Nominated (for Best Surround Sound album) has almost certainly become my favourite performance/recording of Mahler's 2nd Symphony. After ripping the two discs, I listened to the m/c mix last night (in 4.0 as per my speaker setup) and I really enjoyed it. It's clear that the m/c mix has taken a noticeable step towards the sort of discrete mixes we normally associate with rock/pop m/c releases. If classical ambient surround sound mixes are usually 1/10 and Dark Side of the Moon 10/10 for discreteness, I'd rate Zander's at 3/10. Sure, it could be more discrete, but it could also be less!

Even though the level of discreteness varied throughout, I felt quite immersed in the music regardless and it was only after 87 minutes or so I realised I'd be listening to it for that length of time; that's how engrossed I was. I lost track of time! If you like Mahler and you like m/c mixes, you'll almost certainly like this :)

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Title: Re: Mini-Review: Favorite SACD or DVD-Audio disc
Post by: MTVhike on 7 Oct 2020, 06:34 pm
I'll jump in here, after 5 years. I have a small collection of SACDs and only 2 DVD-As, but I really like Verdi's Requiem, conducted by Valery Gergiev on DVDA (Phillips/Decca), and an organ/orchestra collection on Ondine, which includes Samuel Barber's Toccata Festiva, Francis Poulenc's Concerto for Organ, Strings, and Timpani, and my all time favorite composition in this genre, Camille Saint-Saens Organ Symphony.
I also have the RCA Living Stereo SACD release of the Saint-Saens which also sounds spectacular! It was recorded in 1956 on a 3-track recorder, so is that considered "Multi-channel"?
Title: Re: Mini-Review: Favorite SACD or DVD-Audio disc
Post by: msiron on 23 Jul 2021, 12:43 am
Hi, I am fairly new to the site and have a number of SACDs I enjoy. One I will mention that my wife also very much likes is Diana Krall's "Wallflower". She certainly has a gorgeous voice and the sonics of this SACD are outstanding.