My husband was skeptical. He didn’t believe the UK first pressing could sound better than any of the newer pressings. Then I got a UK first press. And yes, he couldn’t believe his ears. The UK first pressing is just that good. You can distinguish individual instruments and voices so clearly. I just love it.
NICE ... with the solid blue triangle ? Hope you got a bargain , they can be costly , My local shop had a VG+ one for about £6-700 a few months back ... too rich for me but i have some nice UK pressings of DSOTM, and a Greek one that was pressed from UK plates. It is a classic for a reason!
@@seansrecords unfortunately it was not a bargain, but since this is my favorite album of all time, I wanted to hear this OG blue triangle that everyone says is the best. I got a copy in great condition- no scratches, flat, not a lot of noise. It’s worth it to me to have this version. But I wouldn’t pay as much for any other record. I didn’t want it for the collectibility, I just wanted to hear it!
@@seansrecordsI have a mint copy of the solid blue triangle album, it was left to me by my late uncle. Plus the other two thousand ones. He collected vinyl, but never played them. Just before Christmas I got myself a Technics SL 1200 G to give them a spin, and so far Harvest by Neil young sounds the best. I got myself a copy of Miles Davis kob uhqr 45 and that is incredible.
I've got a A3-B3 copy, while it's not a first press it is pressed from the same masters so you get the same quality at a fraction of the cost of a first pressing, and yes it does get played a lot
Michael as you know the 30th is a benchmark for a lot of people. I have it and it’s a near perfect representation of this album. I can’t imagine a better sounding experience for a record. My 2 cents. Thx for sharing. ☮️
As always enjoy your view and overall honest approach to all your reviews. Your reviews continue to be an important part in my vinyl journey and it is appreciated. Thank You.
Danke Michael für deine tolle Analyse! Ich habe gestern Abend nach deiner Box-öffnung noch einmal genauer meine"2016er" mit der deutschen Erstpressung (Matrix 05249A1) von 1973 verglichen und komme genau zu deinem gleichen Ergebnis von heute. (Habe auch die allererste CD aus Japan und die 20Jahre CD- Edition (Sept. 1992) und sie können beide nicht mithalten ! LG GEORG
Thank you for your video very informative and much appreciated cheers have a good one. I have the live version coming in the post and can't wait to hear it in the next day or two.
i must have the live version. It is in my cart with Acoustic Sounds right now. I streamed it last night, and I actually enjoyed the fact that the live performance fell short of the Album Version. What else could be expected. I find "real" sometimes more "audiophile" than "perfect".
At first I was not a fan of the book. Its all in black and white and no captions under the pictures. But I went through it as I listened to the live album and I really think its awesome how its structured. Starts with backstage photos, then soundcheck, the concert, and then after-show, travel to next gig. It really tells a story of their day. Lots of pics from many dates on the Dark Side tour. All the captions are in the back so the stark photo stands on its own. I will look at the book often.
Timing is everything. Just caught your livestream and left a comment. I am going to wait. I don’t need all of those CD’s , blu rays , etc because I listen to my music through a 2 channel system. The boxset reading material is a great addition. I just wished the would have released this boxset as a vinyl release with the books included and for those who listen to music in the digital realm, have a separate version for those individuals. For now the only copy on vinyl I have is the 2016 remix and the SACD version. Cheers 🥂
I hate to throw cold water on the party but I have owned a early British OG for about 35 years & I think the record has taken on a cult like status that leads people to believe it"s like a mythical creature that will change your life. It is good but it's not unbelievable. I also have a early MoFi, UHQR, Toshiba Pro Use & the 30th anniversary among various obscure pressings. Quite honestly they are all good & the MoFi's sound much better then all the so called experts would lead you to believe. Yelp, there is a cool factor to owning the OG 1st pressing but I can be honest with myself & admit the emotional aspect weighs greatly on one's oppinion, it's just the human condition.
Excellent review from your experienced viewpoint. Very helpful. You will certainly notice these differences on your top end system. Many however will have working class hifi or with a total price under 1K so will hear less of a difference between all the various copies and may not even own different releases from different years. You review has certainly put me off buying the package and spend my cash tracking down some better condition originals with them being judged by yourself and in the comments below as superior. So, for pure listening pleasure having a quiet drink, the original gets my vote, if however in a different mood and wish to be wholly entertained I still go back to a DVD Blue Ray of Pulse. Live - different experience altogether. Thanks from Bonnie Scotland.
I’ve had many versions over the years from 1st pressings to 2016 and guess what…they all sound like DSOTM. As long as the band are playing the right chords and don’t sing out of tune it’s ok by me. Long live the music and I’ll see you on the dark side of the moon.
You can’t ever get a chance to beat the freshest tape. So if the OG is done well/right, a reissue can become a fools errand. But there are times when the OG is not done as well which gives later efforts a second chance. When it comes to Reissues and use of analogue tape, time is not your friend! :)
Per your suggestion I bought a German first pressing around VG. WOW! Thank You! I've the SACD an older NM US pressing and a reissue. The German first pressing is a totally new experience the sound is fabulous more importantly the music takes on new meaning. I've hear this LP so many times I can't count from the time of its release. The German first pressing is a must have for anyone who treasures this great LP.
Amazon’s monthly subscription service is sending out the 2016 remaster. I guess that’ll be the start of my PF journey. I’ve had CD’s, but this’ll be my first vinyl.
I would disagree with you as regards the live vinyl. For me the live vinyl sounds superb with for example great clarity in the base and saxophone instruments. It will never be an audiophile pressing but does it sound damn good , it does for sure and is a wonderful example if you want to hear them playing DSOTM live back in their prime with various in-fills that they played on that night. You can really crank up the sound without getting any listening fatigue.
I have the 30th and the 50th. To me the 50th is very smooth and listenable. In some places it seems soft but only where it needed to be soft and when needing to have punch and more power it did so easily as well. Nothing seemed forced. It has warmth, its a smooth blend of darkness and light. It's listenable but the clarity of the 30th anniversary vrs the 50th anniversary is very noticeable. Still very worth owning.
Fantastic comparison video Michael, I have the German ,like you said sounds breathtaking ,incredible instrument separation,the German second press 1C 064 just as good as German original,€40-€50 incredible value, The box is unfortunately wasted on me ,I just want the vinyl.I’m happy & comfortable not purchasing this box . Interesting comparison regarding the recent remasters Michael. Thanks so much for doing this video,it was definitely needed,I appreciate the time for doing it. Have a wonderful Saturday night 🙏
This was a very interesting review of one of the greatest rock albums of all time. I really appreciate you wading through this box set and providing your opinion about it. Since Pink Floyd is my favorite band, I always try to figure out whether the reissues of their albums are worth owning. You peaked my interest on the first German pressing. I just may buy that one upon your recommendation.
I was only interested in the live cause I've been waiting forever for a Pink Floyd concert in their prime. Now get me a Meddle tour! Sidenote the jacket makes me wanna get the lip balm off my fingers. Ha. Feels super weird.
I might be wrong, but I think it was the legendary Harry T Moss who mastered and cut the original UK Dark Side of the Moon at EMI Studios (Abbey Road). As a huge Beatles fan and collector - he is a mystery - not much written about him. He mastered and cut all the albums/singles/EP's with The Beatles between 1962 and 1968. With the exception of the mono -4/-4 and -5/-5 cuttings of Rubber Soul. They were made by Hazel Yarwood. Then he did remasters and new cuttings of The Beatles albums in the 70's up until 1981. Even Abbey Road and Let It Be who were originally mastered/cut by Malcolm Davies at Apple Studios. He did start to sign his cuttings with HTM 1973, but not allways. Later releases in the UK of DSOTM has his signature. By the way - German pressings with The Beatles are always great sounding. Die Beatles (Please Please Me) and the first 100% analogue stereo pressing of Magical Mystery Tour with the A1/B3 matrix are two amazing sounding pressings. At least to my ears :)
Michael Can you include a link from your German first edition in your 50th Anniversary comparison video? Discogs has three different editions listed from 1973 so it would be very interesting which edition you have. Version 1: Matrix: A - 1 / B - 1 Harvest - 1C062-05 249, EMI Electrola - 1C062-05 249 laminated gatefold sleeve Version 2: Matrix: A - 1 / B - 1 Harvest - 1C 062-05 249 non-laminated gatefold sleeve Version 3: Matrix: A-2 / B-2 Harvest - 1 C 062-05 249, EMI Electrola - 1 C 062-05 249 with Star (☆) left from cat#
Just about a week ago I found in my local store the 50th anniversary Vinyl Record for sale just alone, not a bad price actually. I bought it for my who just turned 11 and he is not into vinyl records yet or into Pink Floyd but I know one day he will like it and he will talk about it to his friends or his children.
I have many of these IMHO the best sounding version is the 2nd transitional press A2/B2 A3/B3 it is better than my 1st UK blue label which I have owned since new
Great stuff, Michael. I have two versions, a late 1980’s British pressing and the EMI 100th Anniversary edition. The latter is DMM, btw. Funny, I never thought to compare them, now on my to do list. In recent years, I’ve been listening to the live Dark Side from the Pulse reissue. Having heard the original album so many times over the years, I just need to hear something different, and I only listen to it two or three time a year.
I wouldn't. Its a piece of Floyd history. 1974 concert recorded on who knows what it sounds solid. Hearing the live arrangements to replicate the studio wizardry is worth it alone. David shines too.
The 1973 Alan Parsons SD Quadraphonic is THEE best sounding version of DSOTM, nobody really knows about it..but it's absolutely killer....trust me...look at the discogs reviews
Thanks for your take on DSOTM, Michael! My personal favourite out of three versions I have is the UK A5/B5 reissue (VG+ condition, the others are a MoFi and French OG). I'd love to know how it compares to a UK OG, but I won't spend that much money for only one LP. Based on your comparison I might prefer the approach of the 2023 remaster compared to the 2016. If they release the 2023 remaster on it's own some day, I will give it a try!
Interesting comparisons! As a "non believer" in DSOTM I can say that I have a mid seventies pressing from the Netherlands which I played once many,many years ago and actually enjoyed the experience...I saw the band live in 1971 and the sound was fantastic....no stupid stage props or light show....broad daylight and outdoors....the only thing I like about the album is the "cash register" and the ticking and clanging clock effects....but,then again my favourite track by the band is ALANS PSYCHEDELIC BREAKFAST featured on the wonderful ATOM HEART MOTHER album...I have a bit of a love/hate thing with the band I guess!
Like aways thank you for this wonderful comparison. The 50th single remaster is about to be released and honestly I'm not so sure I'll buy it. The German fist pressing seems a better choice.
I have the 50th (along with a copy from the 80’s, 2016 and the UV copy of the 50th) and I like it quite a bit. I think it’s a solid copy and is meant for someone just getting started in vinyl and wants a good sounding copy at a fair price. It’s certainly cannot beat a OG but I don’t think it is meant too.
Michael, thanks for your honest review. I still regret getting rid of my late 70s (?) UK repress - The gatefold opens from only 1 side, no posters no stickers and no barcode -. It had something in the low and hi freqs that I've never found in other pressings either vintage (German, Holland, US) or newer. I guess it is similar to the UK 1st. I don't have the 50th yet, but yesterday I did A/B of the 2016 vs Apple's loseless (CD Quality) and Side A was almost identical, however Side B had sort of an improvement on the right channel in the 50th.. Though not enough differences to justify my curiosity to spend on the box set for the newer cut. But now hearing from you that there are, I may change my mind. By the way, can either you or someone who owns the set add the runouts to the Discogs item page? xD I am eager to see that!
To me, the Wembley disc is very interesting as a glimpse into what the Floyd sounded like live when they were in their prime. Especially, since there are so few live documents of the 70s, or even the classic 4-piece Floyd, if you discount the 2000 live album of The Wall (which I prefer to the studio version these days). For a polished live version of DSOTM, we can always turn to Disc 2 of the P.U.L.S.E. live album. That has been recorded specifically intended for release and on much better equipment in the mid 90s and sounds really good. Of course, it's some 20 years later and doesn't feature Roger, and also purposely differs from the original record in a number of places, but because of that, it stands really well on it's own as an alternate version that is highly listenable. The standout track there has to be the "Great Gig", the singing by Sam, Claudia and Durga ist just so hauntingly beautiful. The Wembley recording on the other hand probably rightly sat on a shelf for the past decades and could only with the recent advances in audio restauration technology be whipped into releasable shape. So yeah, interesting document of a period of which until now existed only a few inferior bootlegs, so it's a step up in that regard. @Michael: Want to borrow the 2003 reissue?
I think your UK & German pressings represent the bands intent how their style of music was being reproduced, sensitive meandering jams with time changes and attacks. The Wembley is an excerpt within a concert of their catalog of music (no value) that includes DSOTM. I have my 1st US press upon release in 73, attended 75 Wish tour that included the complete DSOTM with their movie screen behind the band and their objective was sensitive parts to time change attack pieces as the screen displayed that format, music at that time was pure Rock and roll with additions that no 4 piece band could reproduce on stage by themselves. I only had the first US press for 20 plus years and love it to this day, I next had the 1st MOFI and that was much softer a bit cleaner and didn't compare to my US copy, Next the 2016 nothing to be excited about, the Immersion box in there about the same, then the 2003 30th and that moved the stylists with smooth passages to time change attacks like the original and concert. Chads SACD is the best silver disc! You and I know they could and should have done justice to this great Album!
Michael, Nice review. Have not heard the newer releases. Would agree with you on your comments on the OG British pressing. Have never heard the German pressing so can't comment. Would be interesting to see who cut the lacquers for the 1st German pressing. Many folks think the 1970s MOFI release was the best sounding but do not agree. Not 100% sure but think the 1970s MOFI version was sourced from the US Capitol tape, not the EMI - UK tape. The other copies that are sonically quite good are from Japan. Dark Side had at least 4 or maybe 5 pressing variations in Japan. The first two are really good. Both the 1st and 2nd had the lacquers cut by EMI- Hayes Middlesex, UK and were pressed by Toshiba-EMI. The later versions had lacquers cut by Toshiba- EMI and pressed by Toshiba-EMi in Japan and while good, do not have as much as that tape sound the first two have or the UK OG has.
I have the UK A2/B2 pressing and a mid 70’s Japanese press. Any others have been sold because they don’t touch the A2/B2 imo. Can’t afford a solid triangle first.
Yep, spot on I'd say. I have heard a lot of versions of this album and when I first heard the 50th Anniversary version on vinyl I was very disappointed. "Softer" is exactly the right word, where are those delicate cymbals when "Breathe" kicks in and on "Us and Them"? However, I have grown to quite like it, I agree it is a different take on the album. I now only own this copy and an early UK A3/B3 second pressing, which is almost as good as the first A2/B2 I believe.
Thanks for the comparisons Michael. Its interesting to hear about the differences in the various releases. However, sorry to be the contrarian here. How many times can you release the same record which all of us have heard countless times? To be honest I probably will never listen to this album again! I have listened to it so many times over the years that it holds no interest no matter how well the pressing or sound. If I ever want to listen to it again I have the original MOFI which sounds very good. Its amazing how these record companies can recycle the same old records over and over and people will stand in line to get them and pay top dollar. Does anyone really need 3 or 4 different pressings of this or any classic rock record? I can understand a younger listener just getting into Floyd buying this. Other than that...I would hope that music lovers would find other records to spend their money on.
Why must every recording be "audiophile" to be enjoyable or good? I really enjoyed the Wembley show for what it is, a document when the band were young and fresh, delivering one of the most iconic albums of all time in a live situtaion from 1974. We must realise that the technicque for creating all theses soundscapes was a difficult task 50 years ago. It must have taken them a lot of time to figure out how to play the whole album live without sacrificing important parts of the music. Just the fact that they came up with a solution that the delay effect on the lead vocal in "Us And Them" should be delivered by the female backup singers is very creative. Sometimes we should just listen to the music and feel the history rather than looking for "audiophile" qualities.
I agree about the 50th version, it is "softer" I see it as loosing some "energy" from other pressings. Excellent review you nailed it, they did not try to surpass previous pressing they tried to offer a different version. Still hope they would release a version form the original analog tapes. Oh, and maybe a version without that alarm clock rigging at the beginning of "money". I just order these: APFLR 42618 Pink Floyd / Wish You Were Here, 180 Gram Vinyl Record APFLR 84231 Pink Floyd / Meddle, 180 Gram Vinyl Record APFLR 84251 Pink Floyd / The Dark Side Of The Moon, 180 Gram Vinyl Record From Acoustic Sound. Do you have any experience with those pressing and this seller? Cheers,
Hey Michael, thanks again for a nice comparison. I have asked you before to make a comparison with a first Dutch pressing. I believe that the Dutch did a very good job. Thank you in advance.
Very informative review Michael, thank you but now you have convinced me to buy an original UK first pressing. However looking at the price of good near mint copies they are out of my price range. Do you think a second UK pressing would be next best copy of DSOTM?
@@jimmymarshall3529 just to compare the remaster with the original. It won’t sound better, and it’s not a remix (like Animals was) but I can’t help myself..that’s why I have so many versions.
ich habe die uk 1st a2 b2,die japanische erst pressung auch mit dem light blue triangle, ich habe die quad version, und die 30th , die japanische pressung ist unglaubich gut, powerfull, guter bass volle sound dimension, die u 1st,,ist auch der hammer,aber nicht so gut wie die japanische,
I see you left out the MoFi pressing, but based on your previous comments I can see that comparison would be useless. Whether the 50th ever appears as a single release, at least I know which pressings to get and which to avoid. Thanks.
Different is not better or worse, the sooner everyone gets on board with this the sooner all of the various pressings will become affordable. To suggest an original is better hypes the price. When all said and done, if the newer versions were not as good, the sound engineers should be ashamed of them selves
How the powers that be were sold the idea of this box is beyond me … Even little old me could have come up with something better… How about those vinyls in that lovely gold box .. with the book .. an folder of bits and bobs .. all inside a high gloss slip case with the original design… sorted … Like and appreciate your review..will definitely pick up Wembley soon and wait on the sure to be release of the main lp …only if the price falls drastically will I pick up the box …
Really good analysis, 45! I have an early U.S. reissue on vinyl that sounds O.K. to me, but I have nothing but a CD to compare it to. I will be interested in getting the single vinyl disc version of this, when it is released. I don't mind waiting. Unlike some people, I'm not so crazy about the music that I need to get all the features and trinkets of the box. An example of how box sets can be bloated with extras... the other day I was listening to George Harrison's All Things Must Pass 50th again. I still dislike the mix, but not as badly as when I first heard it. But, oh those demos and outtakes are terrible! I had to stop. So, that's an example of throwing everything but the kitchen sink into a box set!
Imo-anything Digital on Vinyl is a complete waste of time and against the reason of Vinyl in the first place. AAA-that is why the first UK sounds Great. First lacquer, first cut, and an ‘in the moment’ master. Its why we collect records after all. We want to get to the Truth!
Mike Esposito (The Ingroove) reviewed this and said his copy had "BG" and "50th" in the dad wax - I assumed Bernie Grundman. You mention James Guthrie in your video. Do you have any clarification for this?
I have a 30th I don't rate it as special as many, in context, the early UK pressings sound noticeably better, I have a 1st but other versions, Italian, Australian etc are imho comparable with KG's 30th.....now going to search out a German 1 st pressing.
Guess I don't understand but why can't they made one sou ds as good as the blur one? Feel like after so many better reissues why can't we have at least as good as it was
Hello , if they issue the only one vynil later,it’s a shame as they forced the interested persons to buy the anniversary box, it s a shame ,just making a cash grab!!!!they should issue it at the same time for people not interested by the box and for the people which don’t have much MONEY…it s not sheer confidence if a title track is MONEY!!!
I like the 2016 version and your excellent review is not getting me excited to buy the 50th anniversary version if and when it is available. Dark Side is the “Kind of Blue” of classic rock. It really deserves the UHQR treatment. Or at least SOME kind of audiophile release. The early pressings are hella expensive on Discogs, understandably so. Call your buddy Chad and tell him to start working on it, please. Many thanks for the great video! Warm regards, Ron
Not really fond of the music.I was at the US/World premier of DOM at Radio City Music Hall in NYC ,midnight show 50 years ago. I was in college in NYC at the time. I was an UmmaGumma fan. So the first half of the show was just that,spectacular. After an intermission, They came out and performed DOM.I fell asleep! The end of a love affair.The subsequent lps are boring.Definitely,NOT the Kind of Blue of rock and roll,please. Cheers,Chet
The boxset is a waste of money especially since the new album's mastering is subpar. All you need is for the 50th anniversary is The Dark Side Of The Moon: Live At Wembley.
Only chance of getting something better than OG is getting Chad involved with a release . Pulse has the whole of dsotm on it so won't bother with live lp
There's a Pre-FM Boot of the Wembley show about, listen to it then this version, it will be better appreciated, great to hear DSOTM in a different light👍
My husband was skeptical. He didn’t believe the UK first pressing could sound better than any of the newer pressings. Then I got a UK first press. And yes, he couldn’t believe his ears. The UK first pressing is just that good. You can distinguish individual instruments and voices so clearly. I just love it.
NICE ... with the solid blue triangle ? Hope you got a bargain , they can be costly , My local shop had a VG+ one for about £6-700 a few months back ... too rich for me but i have some nice UK pressings of DSOTM, and a Greek one that was pressed from UK plates. It is a classic for a reason!
@@seansrecords unfortunately it was not a bargain, but since this is my favorite album of all time, I wanted to hear this OG blue triangle that everyone says is the best. I got a copy in great condition- no scratches, flat, not a lot of noise. It’s worth it to me to have this version. But I wouldn’t pay as much for any other record. I didn’t want it for the collectibility, I just wanted to hear it!
Fresh tapes, I agree.
@@seansrecordsI have a mint copy of the solid blue triangle album, it was left to me by my late uncle. Plus the other two thousand ones. He collected vinyl, but never played them. Just before Christmas I got myself a Technics SL 1200 G to give them a spin, and so far Harvest by Neil young sounds the best. I got myself a copy of Miles Davis kob uhqr 45 and that is incredible.
I've got a A3-B3 copy, while it's not a first press it is pressed from the same masters so you get the same quality at a fraction of the cost of a first pressing, and yes it does get played a lot
Michael as you know the 30th is a benchmark for a lot of people. I have it and it’s a near perfect representation of this album. I can’t imagine a better sounding experience for a record. My 2 cents. Thx for sharing. ☮️
As always enjoy your view and overall honest approach to all your reviews. Your reviews continue to be an important part in my vinyl journey and it is appreciated. Thank You.
Some very interesting insights and I have to agree... I'll wait this one out
Great review, really enjoyed this = seems I need to add to my list of wants. Thanks Michael
Danke Michael für deine tolle Analyse! Ich habe gestern Abend nach deiner Box-öffnung noch einmal genauer meine"2016er" mit der deutschen Erstpressung (Matrix 05249A1) von 1973 verglichen und komme genau zu deinem gleichen Ergebnis von heute.
(Habe auch die allererste CD aus Japan und die 20Jahre CD- Edition (Sept. 1992) und sie können beide nicht mithalten !
LG GEORG
Thank you for your video very informative and much appreciated cheers have a good one. I have the live version coming in the post and can't wait to hear it in the next day or two.
Thank you for the honest evaluation of the album :)
My 40th anniversary one sounds fantastic and that's all I need I sold the others.
Awesome review Michael I have the 30th Anniversary , the Japanese Pro use from ‘78 and the 2016 the 30th Anniversary blows them all away
i must have the live version. It is in my cart with Acoustic Sounds right now. I streamed it last night, and I actually enjoyed the fact that the live performance fell short of the Album Version. What else could be expected. I find "real" sometimes more "audiophile" than "perfect".
Yep.
I like it when they go off script which is only possible live...
5th UK Pressing cut by Harry Moss is hand down the best copy of Dark Side that I've ever heard from all the other copies that I've own previously.
danke noch einmal Michael
At first I was not a fan of the book. Its all in black and white and no captions under the pictures. But I went through it as I listened to the live album and I really think its awesome how its structured. Starts with backstage photos, then soundcheck, the concert, and then after-show, travel to next gig. It really tells a story of their day. Lots of pics from many dates on the Dark Side tour. All the captions are in the back so the stark photo stands on its own. I will look at the book often.
Timing is everything. Just caught your livestream and left a comment. I am going to wait. I don’t need all of those CD’s , blu rays , etc because I listen to my music through a 2 channel system. The boxset reading material is a great addition. I just wished the would have released this boxset as a vinyl release with the books included and for those who listen to music in the digital realm, have a separate version for those individuals. For now the only copy on vinyl I have is the 2016 remix and the SACD version. Cheers 🥂
Good information on the various versions. Thanks!
I hate to throw cold water on the party but I have owned a early British OG for about 35 years & I think the record has taken on a cult like status that leads people to believe it"s like a mythical creature that will change your life. It is good but it's not unbelievable. I also have a early MoFi, UHQR, Toshiba Pro Use & the 30th anniversary among various obscure pressings. Quite honestly they are all good & the MoFi's sound much better then all the so called experts would lead you to believe. Yelp, there is a cool factor to owning the OG 1st pressing but I can be honest with myself & admit the emotional aspect weighs greatly on one's oppinion, it's just the human condition.
The German 1st pressing is my preferred one, and I believe it can still be had for a somewhat reasonable price. Thanks for the review, Michael.
Nick which first German edition do you have? there are some different german 1st pressings on Discogs and on the Market. Thanks Joker12
Excellent review from your experienced viewpoint. Very helpful. You will certainly notice these differences on your top end system. Many however will have working class hifi or with a total price under 1K so will hear less of a difference between all the various copies and may not even own different releases from different years. You review has certainly put me off buying the package and spend my cash tracking down some better condition originals with them being judged by yourself and in the comments below as superior. So, for pure listening pleasure having a quiet drink, the original gets my vote, if however in a different mood and wish to be wholly entertained I still go back to a DVD Blue Ray of Pulse. Live - different experience altogether. Thanks from Bonnie Scotland.
I’ve had many versions over the years from 1st pressings to 2016 and guess what…they all sound like DSOTM. As long as the band are playing the right chords and don’t sing out of tune it’s ok by me. Long live the music and I’ll see you on the dark side of the moon.
I have the 2016 lp..was a gift one year. Sounds quite punchy and crisp. Surprised.
You can’t ever get a chance to beat the freshest tape. So if the OG is done well/right, a reissue can become a fools errand. But there are times when the OG is not done as well which gives later efforts a second chance. When it comes to Reissues and use of analogue tape, time is not your friend! :)
Per your suggestion I bought a German first pressing around VG. WOW! Thank You!
I've the SACD an older NM US pressing and a reissue. The German first pressing is a totally new experience the sound is fabulous more importantly the music takes on new meaning. I've hear this LP so many times I can't count from the time of its release. The German first pressing is a must have for anyone who treasures this great LP.
My copy on CD sounds awesome!
I have the 1973 first Greek Pressing and so far is my favorite compared to the rest that I have,
Amazon’s monthly subscription service is sending out the 2016 remaster. I guess that’ll be the start of my PF journey. I’ve had CD’s, but this’ll be my first vinyl.
I was gonna wait for price drop, but already sold out on Amazon. Interesting to see if it comes back. Grabbed one from local record shop.
I would disagree with you as regards the live vinyl. For me the live vinyl sounds superb with for example great clarity in the base and saxophone instruments. It will never be an audiophile pressing but does it sound damn good , it does for sure and is a wonderful example if you want to hear them playing DSOTM live back in their prime with various in-fills that they played on that night. You can really crank up the sound without getting any listening fatigue.
I’ve got the 1976 Harry T Moss cut and it sounds fantastic. I think it sounds better than the 30th anniversary.
Surprised you haven’t got the 30th anniversary!!
Blows away the 2016!!! I have like 10 versions
30th is by far the best sounding
I have the 30th and the 50th.
To me the 50th is very smooth and listenable. In some places it seems soft but only where it needed to be soft and when needing to have punch and more power it did so easily as well. Nothing seemed forced. It has warmth, its a smooth blend of darkness and light. It's listenable but the clarity of the 30th anniversary vrs the 50th anniversary is very noticeable. Still very worth owning.
Fantastic comparison video Michael,
I have the German ,like you said sounds breathtaking ,incredible instrument separation,the German second press 1C 064 just as good as German original,€40-€50 incredible value,
The box is unfortunately wasted on me ,I just want the vinyl.I’m happy & comfortable not purchasing this box .
Interesting comparison regarding the recent remasters Michael.
Thanks so much for doing this video,it was definitely needed,I appreciate the time for doing it.
Have a wonderful Saturday night 🙏
This was a very interesting review of one of the greatest rock albums of all time. I really appreciate you wading through this box set and providing your opinion about it. Since Pink Floyd is my favorite band, I always try to figure out whether the reissues of their albums are worth owning. You peaked my interest on the first German pressing. I just may buy that one upon your recommendation.
I was only interested in the live cause I've been waiting forever for a Pink Floyd concert in their prime. Now get me a Meddle tour! Sidenote the jacket makes me wanna get the lip balm off my fingers. Ha. Feels super weird.
I might be wrong, but I think it was the legendary Harry T Moss who mastered and cut the original UK Dark Side of the Moon at EMI Studios (Abbey Road).
As a huge Beatles fan and collector - he is a mystery - not much written about him.
He mastered and cut all the albums/singles/EP's with The Beatles between 1962 and 1968. With the exception of the mono -4/-4 and -5/-5 cuttings of Rubber Soul. They were made by Hazel Yarwood.
Then he did remasters and new cuttings of The Beatles albums in the 70's up until 1981. Even Abbey Road and Let It Be who were originally mastered/cut by Malcolm Davies at Apple Studios.
He did start to sign his cuttings with HTM 1973, but not allways. Later releases in the UK of DSOTM has his signature.
By the way - German pressings with The Beatles are always great sounding. Die Beatles (Please Please Me) and the first 100% analogue stereo pressing of Magical Mystery Tour with the A1/B3 matrix are two amazing sounding pressings. At least to my ears :)
Michael
Can you include a link from your German first edition in your 50th Anniversary comparison video?
Discogs has three different editions listed from 1973 so it would be very interesting which edition you have.
Version 1:
Matrix: A - 1 / B - 1
Harvest - 1C062-05 249, EMI Electrola - 1C062-05 249 laminated gatefold sleeve
Version 2:
Matrix: A - 1 / B - 1
Harvest - 1C 062-05 249 non-laminated gatefold sleeve
Version 3:
Matrix: A-2 / B-2 Harvest - 1 C 062-05 249, EMI Electrola - 1 C 062-05 249 with Star (☆) left from cat#
done
@@Michael45RPM Sorry Michael can't find anything?
I thought the 50th anniversary pressing was very warm and soft also. That was the first thing that said to my friend. Great review
Just about a week ago I found in my local store the 50th anniversary Vinyl Record for sale just alone, not a bad price actually. I bought it for my who just turned 11 and he is not into vinyl records yet or into Pink Floyd but I know one day he will like it and he will talk about it to his friends or his children.
I have many of these IMHO the best sounding version is the 2nd transitional press A2/B2 A3/B3 it is better than my 1st UK blue label which I have owned since new
I have the A3/B2 and A3/B3 second issues and they are my favourites by far 🎸
Good comparison. Now you need the first uk quad pressing. You may prefer this overall. I was floored how good it was!
I second the quad..absolutely killer the best sounding
Great stuff, Michael. I have two versions, a late 1980’s British pressing and the EMI 100th Anniversary edition. The latter is DMM, btw. Funny, I never thought to compare them, now on my to do list. In recent years, I’ve been listening to the live Dark Side from the Pulse reissue. Having heard the original album so many times over the years, I just need to hear something different, and I only listen to it two or three time a year.
Thank you for the honest evaluation of the live album. I think I'll skip that one. Great shoot out as usual!
I wouldn't. Its a piece of Floyd history. 1974 concert recorded on who knows what it sounds solid. Hearing the live arrangements to replicate the studio wizardry is worth it alone. David shines too.
@Bones Jackson I fully agree
The 1973 Alan Parsons SD Quadraphonic is THEE best sounding version of DSOTM, nobody really knows about it..but it's absolutely killer....trust me...look at the discogs reviews
(PINK FLOYD THE EPITOME OF MUSIC)
SHINE ON 💎
🎼☮️👊🇨🇦
Thanks for your take on DSOTM, Michael!
My personal favourite out of three versions I have is the UK A5/B5 reissue (VG+ condition, the others are a MoFi and French OG). I'd love to know how it compares to a UK OG, but I won't spend that much money for only one LP.
Based on your comparison I might prefer the approach of the 2023 remaster compared to the 2016. If they release the 2023 remaster on it's own some day, I will give it a try!
If it’s the one cut by Harry Moss I have that one as well. Sounds awesome and I think it sounds better than the 30th anniversary
Interesting comparisons! As a "non believer" in DSOTM I can say that I have a mid seventies pressing from the Netherlands which I played once many,many years ago and actually enjoyed the experience...I saw the band live in 1971 and the sound was fantastic....no stupid stage props or light show....broad daylight and outdoors....the only thing I like about the album is the "cash register" and the ticking and clanging clock effects....but,then again my favourite track by the band is ALANS PSYCHEDELIC BREAKFAST featured on the wonderful ATOM HEART MOTHER album...I have a bit of a love/hate thing with the band I guess!
Like aways thank you for this wonderful comparison.
The 50th single remaster is about to be released and honestly I'm not so sure I'll buy it. The German fist pressing seems a better choice.
!00% agree with you on waiting. 3-4 months and I can see thie price on this being significantly less.
I have the 50th (along with a copy from the 80’s, 2016 and the UV copy of the 50th) and I like it quite a bit. I think it’s a solid copy and is meant for someone just getting started in vinyl and wants a good sounding copy at a fair price. It’s certainly cannot beat a OG but I don’t think it is meant too.
Michael, thanks for your honest review. I still regret getting rid of my late 70s (?) UK repress - The gatefold opens from only 1 side, no posters no stickers and no barcode -. It had something in the low and hi freqs that I've never found in other pressings either vintage (German, Holland, US) or newer. I guess it is similar to the UK 1st.
I don't have the 50th yet, but yesterday I did A/B of the 2016 vs Apple's loseless (CD Quality) and Side A was almost identical, however Side B had sort of an improvement on the right channel in the 50th.. Though not enough differences to justify my curiosity to spend on the box set for the newer cut. But now hearing from you that there are, I may change my mind.
By the way, can either you or someone who owns the set add the runouts to the Discogs item page? xD I am eager to see that!
To me, the Wembley disc is very interesting as a glimpse into what the Floyd sounded like live when they were in their prime. Especially, since there are so few live documents of the 70s, or even the classic 4-piece Floyd, if you discount the 2000 live album of The Wall (which I prefer to the studio version these days). For a polished live version of DSOTM, we can always turn to Disc 2 of the P.U.L.S.E. live album. That has been recorded specifically intended for release and on much better equipment in the mid 90s and sounds really good. Of course, it's some 20 years later and doesn't feature Roger, and also purposely differs from the original record in a number of places, but because of that, it stands really well on it's own as an alternate version that is highly listenable. The standout track there has to be the "Great Gig", the singing by Sam, Claudia and Durga ist just so hauntingly beautiful. The Wembley recording on the other hand probably rightly sat on a shelf for the past decades and could only with the recent advances in audio restauration technology be whipped into releasable shape. So yeah, interesting document of a period of which until now existed only a few inferior bootlegs, so it's a step up in that regard.
@Michael: Want to borrow the 2003 reissue?
I think your UK & German pressings represent the bands intent how their style of music was being reproduced, sensitive meandering jams with time changes and attacks. The Wembley is an excerpt within a concert of their catalog of music (no value) that includes DSOTM. I have my 1st US press upon release in 73, attended 75 Wish tour that included the complete DSOTM with their movie screen behind the band and their objective was sensitive parts to time change attack pieces as the screen displayed that format, music at that time was pure Rock and roll with additions that no 4 piece band could reproduce on stage by themselves. I only had the first US press for 20 plus years and love it to this day, I next had the 1st MOFI and that was much softer a bit cleaner and didn't compare to my US copy, Next the 2016 nothing to be excited about, the Immersion box in there about the same, then the 2003 30th and that moved the stylists with smooth passages to time change attacks like the original and concert. Chads SACD is the best silver disc! You and I know they could and should have done justice to this great Album!
I like the Kevin Gray 2003 Anniversary remaster. Better sounding than the US domestic and the DMM copies I have.
Michael, Nice review. Have not heard the newer releases. Would agree with you on your comments on the OG British pressing. Have never heard the German pressing so can't comment. Would be interesting to see who cut the lacquers for the 1st German pressing. Many folks think the 1970s MOFI release was the best sounding but do not agree. Not 100% sure but think the 1970s MOFI version was sourced from the US Capitol tape, not the EMI - UK tape. The other copies that are sonically quite good are from Japan. Dark Side had at least 4 or maybe 5 pressing variations in Japan. The first two are really good. Both the 1st and 2nd had the lacquers cut by EMI- Hayes Middlesex, UK and were pressed by Toshiba-EMI. The later versions had lacquers cut by Toshiba- EMI and pressed by Toshiba-EMi in Japan and while good, do not have as much as that tape sound the first two have or the UK OG has.
Thanks Michael for another great video. You said we can get book separately, I can't find it on official website. From where I can get it?
I have the UK A2/B2 pressing and a mid 70’s Japanese press. Any others have been sold because they don’t touch the A2/B2 imo. Can’t afford a solid triangle first.
Yep, spot on I'd say. I have heard a lot of versions of this album and when I first heard the 50th Anniversary version on vinyl I was very disappointed. "Softer" is exactly the right word, where are those delicate cymbals when "Breathe" kicks in and on "Us and Them"? However, I have grown to quite like it, I agree it is a different take on the album. I now only own this copy and an early UK A3/B3 second pressing, which is almost as good as the first A2/B2 I believe.
Thanks for the comparisons Michael. Its interesting to hear about the differences in the various releases. However, sorry to be the contrarian here. How many times can you release the same record which all of us have heard countless times? To be honest I probably will never listen to this album again! I have listened to it so many times over the years that it holds no interest no matter how well the pressing or sound. If I ever want to listen to it again I have the original MOFI which sounds very good. Its amazing how these record companies can recycle the same old records over and over and people will stand in line to get them and pay top dollar. Does anyone really need 3 or 4 different pressings of this or any classic rock record? I can understand a younger listener just getting into Floyd buying this. Other than that...I would hope that music lovers would find other records to spend their money on.
My two favorite top copy’s are the UK A2/B2 1st pressing & 2003 30th anniversary.
But which one is better?
I have the 30th only
Why must every recording be "audiophile" to be enjoyable or good? I really enjoyed the Wembley show for what it is, a document when the band were young and fresh, delivering one of the most iconic albums of all time in a live situtaion from 1974. We must realise that the technicque for creating all theses soundscapes was a difficult task 50 years ago. It must have taken them a lot of time to figure out how to play the whole album live without sacrificing important parts of the music. Just the fact that they came up with a solution that the delay effect on the lead vocal in "Us And Them" should be delivered by the female backup singers is very creative. Sometimes we should just listen to the music and feel the history rather than looking for "audiophile" qualities.
I agree about the 50th version, it is "softer" I see it as loosing some "energy" from other pressings.
Excellent review you nailed it, they did not try to surpass previous pressing they tried to offer a different version.
Still hope they would release a version form the original analog tapes.
Oh, and maybe a version without that alarm clock rigging at the beginning of "money".
I just order these:
APFLR 42618 Pink Floyd / Wish You Were Here, 180 Gram Vinyl Record
APFLR 84231 Pink Floyd / Meddle, 180 Gram Vinyl Record
APFLR 84251 Pink Floyd / The Dark Side Of The Moon, 180 Gram Vinyl Record
From Acoustic Sound.
Do you have any experience with those pressing and this seller?
Cheers,
Hey Michael, thanks again for a nice comparison. I have asked you before to make a comparison with a first Dutch pressing. I believe that the Dutch did a very good job. Thank you in advance.
Very informative review Michael, thank you but now you have convinced me to buy an original UK first pressing. However looking at the price of good near mint copies they are out of my price range. Do you think a second UK pressing would be next best copy of DSOTM?
Try the Swedish OG version and you will be pleasantly surprised by the quality.
I’m with you Michael… I’ll get the 50 in a couple of months, but it won’t touch the OG (and had no chance from the start).
Then why buy it?
@@jimmymarshall3529 just to compare the remaster with the original. It won’t sound better, and it’s not a remix (like Animals was) but I can’t help myself..that’s why I have so many versions.
ich habe die uk 1st a2 b2,die japanische erst pressung auch mit dem light blue triangle,
ich habe die quad version, und die 30th , die japanische pressung ist unglaubich gut,
powerfull, guter bass volle sound dimension, die u 1st,,ist auch der hammer,aber nicht so gut wie die japanische,
I see you left out the MoFi pressing, but based on your previous comments I can see that comparison would be useless. Whether the 50th ever appears as a single release, at least I know which pressings to get and which to avoid. Thanks.
Different is not better or worse, the sooner everyone gets on board with this the sooner all of the various pressings will become affordable. To suggest an original is better hypes the price. When all said and done, if the newer versions were not as good, the sound engineers should be ashamed of them selves
How the powers that be were sold the idea of this box is beyond me …
Even little old me could have come up with something better…
How about those vinyls in that lovely gold box .. with the book .. an folder of bits and bobs .. all inside a high gloss slip case with the original design… sorted …
Like and appreciate your review..will definitely pick up Wembley soon and wait on the sure to be release of the main lp …only if the price falls drastically will I pick up the box …
This 50th edition is the James Guthrie mastering , so nothing new.
Really good analysis, 45! I have an early U.S. reissue on vinyl that sounds O.K. to me, but I have nothing but a CD to compare it to. I will be interested in getting the single vinyl disc version of this, when it is released. I don't mind waiting. Unlike some people, I'm not so crazy about the music that I need to get all the features and trinkets of the box. An example of how box sets can be bloated with extras... the other day I was listening to George Harrison's All Things Must Pass 50th again. I still dislike the mix, but not as badly as when I first heard it. But, oh those demos and outtakes are terrible! I had to stop. So, that's an example of throwing everything but the kitchen sink into a box set!
For fun, I might like to have the immersion box for surround, but not for the crazy money on Discogs.
Imo-anything Digital on Vinyl is a complete waste of time and against the reason of Vinyl in the first place.
AAA-that is why the first UK sounds
Great. First lacquer, first cut, and an ‘in the moment’ master.
Its why we collect records after all.
We want to get to the Truth!
UK 1st is the best I’ve heard
Mike Esposito (The Ingroove) reviewed this and said his copy had "BG" and "50th" in the dad wax - I assumed Bernie Grundman. You mention James Guthrie in your video. Do you have any clarification for this?
I have a 30th I don't rate it as special as many, in context, the early UK pressings sound noticeably better, I have a 1st but other versions, Italian, Australian etc are imho comparable with KG's 30th.....now going to search out a German 1 st pressing.
What is “attack”?
Guess I don't understand but why can't they made one sou ds as good as the blur one? Feel like after so many better reissues why can't we have at least as good as it was
Do you not own a 2013 remaster?
How many more versions do we need? It's now just a cash cow for the record company.
Hello , if they issue the only one vynil later,it’s a shame as they forced the interested persons to buy the anniversary box, it s a shame ,just making a cash grab!!!!they should issue it at the same time for people not interested by the box and for the people which don’t have much MONEY…it s not sheer confidence if a title track is MONEY!!!
SACD 5.1, simple!
I like the 2016 version and your excellent review is not getting me excited to buy the 50th anniversary version if and when it is available.
Dark Side is the “Kind of Blue” of classic rock. It really deserves the UHQR treatment. Or at least SOME kind of audiophile release. The early pressings are hella expensive on Discogs, understandably so. Call your buddy Chad and tell him to start working on it, please.
Many thanks for the great video!
Warm regards,
Ron
Not really fond of the music.I was at the US/World premier of DOM at Radio City Music Hall in NYC ,midnight show 50 years ago. I was in college in NYC at the time. I was an UmmaGumma fan. So the first half of the show was just that,spectacular. After an intermission, They came out and performed DOM.I fell asleep! The end of a love affair.The subsequent lps are boring.Definitely,NOT the Kind of Blue of rock and roll,please. Cheers,Chet
A very expensive pile of cardboard unfortunately
The boxset is a waste of money especially since the new album's mastering is subpar. All you need is for the 50th anniversary is The Dark Side Of The Moon: Live At Wembley.
🎉 @ 02:06 ...would be strange, stupid and, and not cool.
If it ain't broke don't mend it'RW just sayin 😮
Only chance of getting something better than OG is getting Chad involved with a release . Pulse has the whole of dsotm on it so won't bother with live lp
There's a Pre-FM Boot of the Wembley show about, listen to it then this version, it will be better appreciated, great to hear DSOTM in a different light👍