@@ThePressingMatters Hey Scott. I finally received my copy of Folk Singer from Amazon germany. Unfortunately I was shipped the 33rpm and not the 45rpm - long story. Anyway I elected to keep the 33rpm after hearing it. It's a tremendous record. I had to give it a couple of cleans to remove the little crackle on it here or there. But the sound of this is incredible. Then the music itself. It's such a treat to listen to. So great.
@@Kevin_Hanrahan You know what, I wouldn't be too concerned. This record sounds great any way you slice it. It's not that long and works well on a 33. Heck, even the MOFI 33 sounds great. I'm sure they did a beautiful job on the AP 33, and the differences would be there but are relatively minor in the big picture. The music is what's incredible here and we were fortunate to have it recorded so well. It's pretty difficult to screw up Folksinger! Enjoy!
I skipped this one because I have the AP and it sounds so good already. I had a feeling the difference would be mostly just quieter vinyl. I would like the onestep but just couldn’t justify it. I already have 5 onesteps preordered. Good review. Thanks for confirming my theory.
Thank you! You know, I could be happy with either, and I think the AP is fantastic. The difference in vinyl is so minor because APs press is one of their quietest. Either one if fantastic. You're all set with the AP
I been wanted this record I almost got the one from AP. But and up getting the Mofi One Step. I finally open mine today after been in the shelf for about a month. All I can say I don’t regret it. Good informative video. 👍
Hi, thanks for your comment. Both truly are excellent, but I wouldn't want to without the One Step. Just about a perfect release. You've got a great record, hope you are enjoying it. One of the best One Step releases.
You're welcome! Thanks for watching and commenting! Do you have any pressings of this album? I've never heard originals, but one of those in good condition will set me back way more than the One Step!
Great review and thank you for you honest opinion. I have both the AP and MoFi release of this record. I was on the fence with this purchase (FOMO) and I pulled the trigger. I believe if a person’s budget will allow for the MoFi purchase, by all means pick it up. On the other hand, the AP release is no slouch and definitely will satisfy most people. With certain releases the law of diminishing returns is starting to be a reality in this audiophile record collecting as with the equipment we purchase to listen to these records.
Hi Brian! It's true, the point of diminishing returns if there in both high end records and equipment as well. I sometimes think, "since I have a very good pressing already, this money would be better put toward an equipment upgrade" but FOMO gets me with these One Steps! I just today had to clear out some seldom listened to records to be able to shelve the multiplying One Step boxes. That why I sometimes go on about the packaging. I get that luxury products should have elaborate packaging, but these things remain in the packaging and take up a lot of space. It's ok though, I really needed to edit my collection anyway. There's going to be a video about my downsizing struggles lol.
Thanks for the comparison update, I gave a lot of thought to the new Mofi one step for this but decided to stick with my AP 45 pressing. Especially when I factored in the fact that the one step was twice the price. And I keep running out of vinyl storage space so trying to limit to one pressing per album… in most cases 😀.
Thanks for checking it out. Great to see you back! You need not give a second thought on this one. Honestly it would be difficult to name which was which in a blind test. I was just trying to make more room today for my growing box sets like these.I made enough room for another month or two lol!
Thanks for watching, Micheal. This is one you can really sit out - the AP is as good if not better. I would have skipped the MOFI, but I like reviewing them for the channel. Either one and your set.
It is one of their very quietest pressings, and you're really all set if you've got the AP 45. Definitely it's the better value too. Thanks for watching!
I’m happy to see that most people loved the Mofi sound before the Mofi gate thing. This shows that it’s all in the mind. But what sounds good, sounds good. Doesn’t matter how it’s made etc. many people couldn’t tell the difference comparing AP vs Mofi. Lol. Go figure
Hi Makis, This release did sound very good and I still think so. I'm not letting it go. I don't care if they use DSD, I just want good records. They always have had hits and misses. Check out my last video for the new CSN One Step. That one imo is a miss.
Thank you for the review. I have the Discovery Sounds 1994 edition (33 RPM) of this album (UK) and I think it sounds fantastic but I have never heard any other versions. I would love to know how it would compare with the AP 33 & 45 RPM versions.
I'd be curious too, but as I said it's really hard to screw up this album. I wouldn't be surprised. If yours is just as good as some of the releases I discussed. Maybe someone with that both versions will chime in on that topic. Thanks for watching, and giving your perspective!
Great video. I guess I am the exception and definitely not the norm. LOL I have the AP 45rpm as well. Love that pressing. However, I have always felt that it is pressed a little to hot. There are certain parts that get fatiguing to my ears. That is why I am picking the one step. I don’t feel the one step is compressed in any way, I just feel they lowered his voice like 1-2db. Just enough to warm it up just ever so slightly. I did an A/B when I got mine and I also felt the sound stage was more appropriate. The AP is a little to large. He sounds like he is a 15ft giant. To me that is not realistic to me. These copies are so close you are really slitting hairs. Like you said, If you have either pressing you are 100% solid and should not have any regrets and enjoy the heck out of this incredible record….. I do have one major gripe. There are 2 of my favorite tracks from this session, same thing and You can’t lose what you ain’t never had are not on either pressing!!!!!!!!! IMO for the one step they should have put all the tracks on this pressing as the end all be all copy to own. Again my opinion Getting ready to spin it now. Good way to kick start the weekend
Of all the reviews of the Muddy Waters MOFI One Step on TH-cam, I find your review to be the most accurate. For my own review, I compared the following versions: 1. UK pressing - lousy - much worse than even the Chess pressings - not worth further discussions. 2. 2012 Numbered, MOFI Limited Edition Half-Speed Mastered 200gm Anadisc 3. 2021 45 rpm Analog Productions QRP 4. Mofi One Step My playback system is reasonably transparent (Jadis amps + Soundlab A3 electrostatic speakers). However, the easiest way to hear differences in the pressings were through the Stax headphones which showed the greatest differences. The MOFI One Step was way ahead of the MOFI Anadisc in terms of details, 3d you are there in the studio quality. The Anadisc tends to homogenize the sound into a smoother and thicker presentation that most other reviewers really like while the One Step resolution exposes the studio mixing and the full dynamics + inner detail of Muddy's voice. The MOFI One Step was also ahead of the 45 rpm Analog Productions QRP which I bought after the One Step - upon hearing reviews from 45 RPM Audiophile and the 'In' Groove who felt that the Analog Productions version was better. The biggest difference being the resolution and air around each of the performers ( which maybe the mixing engineer's input?) was much greater on the One Step. An example of the much greater resolution, the MOFI One Step also exposes details I have not noticed before in the other two pressings - namely that while Buddy Guy is playing accompanying guitar, Muddy occasionally taps or rubs his own guitar while singing. For me, this is really hard to hear even on the 45 rpm Analog Productions pressing, but is really obvious on the One Step. This is an important detail as Muddy was enticed into this studio session with the allowance of playing his own guitar while singing.
Hi Kilson, thank you, and thank you again for such a well written and informative comment. The more I listen to these, the more I appreciate the One Step pressing for all the reasons you mention. That extra resolution really helps recreate an uncanny illusion of the session and is truly a joy to hear. I remember when I thought the Anadisc was really something special and let's face it, it's really hard to screw up this recording. Most are going to sound pretty damn good. But what a revelation these new masterings have given us. I love them all but the Anadisc is now a distant third for sure. Thanks so much for giving your perspective.
Addendum: The UK pressing is from Chess pressed from Abby Roads studio 1997. One other aspect of these pressings I also want to point out is the picture quality of the album cover on the MOFI One Step is abysmal - purposefully smeared / softened to the point of not being able to see Muddy's beard or facial lines. The UK pressing had the best picture details and color balance which show facial details and that Muddy is wearing a white dress shirt.
@@killsonhammer1291 True, it doesn't get mentioned much, but a lot of the One Steps have poor quality artwork. On another related note, how do you feel about the presentation (boxes, inserts etc?)
My first copy (nr 008198) had to return it, now on my 2nd copy (Nr 008211). Ps liked the bonus tracks on my cd copy CHD-12027 (USA version). Should i buy Analogue Productions 33rpm/45rpm? Or both?
They are close in sound but I would get the AP 45, and either keep both or sell off the MOFI. The AP is a very attractive package at a great price with the best sound overall.
@@ThePressingMatters Thank you! I am always looking for a better CD/sacd/vinyl of my favorite albums. Now I will wait for some reviews of Roger Waters - Amused to death 4lp Analogue Production vinyl box set! 😎
@@jrgenholteng1529 Perhaps I will pick this up and review it. I've never had or heard the album but have always been curious. I love Pink Floyd, but not that into the later Waters material or solo stuff I've heard. I know it's supposed to be a sonic treat. How do you like the material on Amused To Death?
@@ThePressingMatters As of now I have the 2lp version from Analogue Production, and the hybrid sacd. The sound is wide and would say surround sound in a way (Qsound). Goes from loud to whisper. I think I like the songs "What God Wants, part 1, 2 and 3" . It's overall a good album, if not the best.
@@ThePressingMatters Don't have it yet! I live in Switzerland and I'm having my sister forward the two copies I bought, so hopefully I'll have it soon. If it's a similar cut and the Mofi is quieter than my AP, I'm sure I'll be very happy.
@@austinhunt4260 Oh ok. Please let us know here in the comments what your impressions are! I love hearing a new perspective on these comparisons. I appreciate you taking the time to comment. Thanks again!
I don't have any One Steps but I'm thinking about Miles Davis "Bitches Brew". I already have the MOFI "Bitches Brew" from a few years ago. This One Step will be 33 1/3 which I like but any thoughts about whether it's worth shelling out $125 for what is basically another MOFI?
Hi Donald, thanks for your comment. I put it on preorder because I've never had a copy but your MOFI is as great as it always was. It's a lot of money for a slight upgrade. The only way I'd do it would be if my copy was noisy and it was my favorite album. Then again, it will increase in value where you could recoup your money if you don't feel the advantage is worth it. Maybe you'll come out ahead!. But seriously thank you for watching, I love your comment too. Home to see you in other discussions.
@@ThePressingMatters Thanks for the speedy reply. It's not even my favorite Miles Davis album but I do really like it. I regret not getting the Dylan "Blood on the Tracks" which got panned for bad quality control at issue but is now regarded as much better than the original MOFI which I have
Maybe not but it still sounds the same with the knowledge or not. If you watched to the end, I didn't declare any better than the other. Just different strengths. My opinion hasn't changed.
Cool review Scott - thanks. I have the AP 45 on order at the moment. Can't wait to check it out. Your review was helpful as always. Thanks!
Thank you Kevin. You chose the right one! A great record for a great price. Please let me know what you think once you've heard it!
@@ThePressingMatters Hey Scott. I finally received my copy of Folk Singer from Amazon germany. Unfortunately I was shipped the 33rpm and not the 45rpm - long story. Anyway I elected to keep the 33rpm after hearing it. It's a tremendous record. I had to give it a couple of cleans to remove the little crackle on it here or there. But the sound of this is incredible. Then the music itself. It's such a treat to listen to. So great.
@@Kevin_Hanrahan You know what, I wouldn't be too concerned. This record sounds great any way you slice it. It's not that long and works well on a 33. Heck, even the MOFI 33 sounds great. I'm sure they did a beautiful job on the AP 33, and the differences would be there but are relatively minor in the big picture. The music is what's incredible here and we were fortunate to have it recorded so well. It's pretty difficult to screw up Folksinger! Enjoy!
I skipped this one because I have the AP and it sounds so good already. I had a feeling the difference would be mostly just quieter vinyl. I would like the onestep but just couldn’t justify it. I already have 5 onesteps preordered. Good review. Thanks for confirming my theory.
Thank you! You know, I could be happy with either, and I think the AP is fantastic. The difference in vinyl is so minor because APs press is one of their quietest. Either one if fantastic. You're all set with the AP
I been wanted this record I almost got the one from AP. But and up getting the Mofi One Step. I finally open mine today after been in the shelf for about a month.
All I can say I don’t regret it.
Good informative video. 👍
Hi, thanks for your comment. Both truly are excellent, but I wouldn't want to without the One Step. Just about a perfect release. You've got a great record, hope you are enjoying it. One of the best One Step releases.
I dig Muddy, great stuff. Great video
Thank you Scott
Thank you, Joey
thank you this was very helpful an objective and sensible review
You're welcome! Thanks for watching and commenting! Do you have any pressings of this album? I've never heard originals, but one of those in good condition will set me back way more than the One Step!
Great review and thank you for you honest opinion. I have both the AP and MoFi release of this record. I was on the fence with this purchase (FOMO) and I pulled the trigger. I believe if a person’s budget will allow for the MoFi purchase, by all means pick it up. On the other hand, the AP release is no slouch and definitely will satisfy most people. With certain releases the law of diminishing returns is starting to be a reality in this audiophile record collecting as with the equipment we purchase to listen to these records.
Hi Brian! It's true, the point of diminishing returns if there in both high end records and equipment as well. I sometimes think, "since I have a very good pressing already, this money would be better put toward an equipment upgrade" but FOMO gets me with these One Steps! I just today had to clear out some seldom listened to records to be able to shelve the multiplying One Step boxes. That why I sometimes go on about the packaging. I get that luxury products should have elaborate packaging, but these things remain in the packaging and take up a lot of space. It's ok though, I really needed to edit my collection anyway. There's going to be a video about my downsizing struggles lol.
Thanks for the comparison update, I gave a lot of thought to the new Mofi one step for this but decided to stick with my AP 45 pressing. Especially when I factored in the fact that the one step was twice the price. And I keep running out of vinyl storage space so trying to limit to one pressing per album… in most cases 😀.
Thanks for checking it out. Great to see you back! You need not give a second thought on this one. Honestly it would be difficult to name which was which in a blind test. I was just trying to make more room today for my growing box sets like these.I made enough room for another month or two lol!
Thanks Scott, we’ll done. I have the AP version and think I’m just gonna stop there. Enjoy your One Step.
Thanks for watching, Micheal. This is one you can really sit out - the AP is as good if not better. I would have skipped the MOFI, but I like reviewing them for the channel. Either one and your set.
I own the 33 AP pressing of this, and is super quiet.
It is one of their very quietest pressings, and you're really all set if you've got the AP 45. Definitely it's the better value too. Thanks for watching!
Bummed I missed out on the UD1S, as a well as the AP. I have zero Muddy on my shelf, which needs correction
Hey it's still in stock at Elusive Disc! I just checked! Actually they have both versions!
I’m happy to see that most people loved the Mofi sound before the Mofi gate thing. This shows that it’s all in the mind. But what sounds good, sounds good. Doesn’t matter how it’s made etc. many people couldn’t tell the difference comparing AP vs Mofi. Lol. Go figure
Hi Makis,
This release did sound very good and I still think so. I'm not letting it go. I don't care if they use DSD, I just want good records. They always have had hits and misses. Check out my last video for the new CSN One Step. That one imo is a miss.
Thank you for the review. I have the Discovery Sounds 1994 edition (33 RPM) of this album (UK) and I think it sounds fantastic but I have never heard any other versions. I would love to know how it would compare with the AP 33 & 45 RPM versions.
I'd be curious too, but as I said it's really hard to screw up this album. I wouldn't be surprised. If yours is just as good as some of the releases I discussed. Maybe someone with that both versions will chime in on that topic. Thanks for watching, and giving your perspective!
Great video. I guess I am the exception and definitely not the norm. LOL I have the AP 45rpm as well. Love that pressing. However, I have always felt that it is pressed a little to hot. There are certain parts that get fatiguing to my ears. That is why I am picking the one step. I don’t feel the one step is compressed in any way, I just feel they lowered his voice like 1-2db. Just enough to warm it up just ever so slightly.
I did an A/B when I got mine and I also felt the sound stage was more appropriate. The AP is a little to large. He sounds like he is a 15ft giant. To me that is not realistic to me. These copies are so close you are really slitting hairs. Like you said, If you have either pressing you are 100% solid and should not have any regrets and enjoy the heck out of this incredible record…..
I do have one major gripe. There are 2 of my favorite tracks from this session, same thing and You can’t lose what you ain’t never had are not on either pressing!!!!!!!!! IMO for the one step they should have put all the tracks on this pressing as the end all be all copy to own. Again my opinion
Getting ready to spin it now. Good way to kick start the weekend
Of all the reviews of the Muddy Waters MOFI One Step on TH-cam, I find your review to be the most accurate.
For my own review, I compared the following versions:
1. UK pressing - lousy - much worse than even the Chess pressings - not worth further discussions.
2. 2012 Numbered, MOFI Limited Edition Half-Speed Mastered 200gm Anadisc
3. 2021 45 rpm Analog Productions QRP
4. Mofi One Step
My playback system is reasonably transparent (Jadis amps + Soundlab A3 electrostatic speakers).
However, the easiest way to hear differences in the pressings were through the Stax headphones which showed the greatest differences.
The MOFI One Step was way ahead of the MOFI Anadisc in terms of details, 3d you are there in the studio quality. The Anadisc tends to homogenize the sound into a smoother and thicker presentation that most other reviewers really like while the One Step resolution exposes the studio mixing and the full dynamics + inner detail of Muddy's voice.
The MOFI One Step was also ahead of the 45 rpm Analog Productions QRP which I bought after the One Step - upon hearing reviews from 45 RPM Audiophile and the 'In' Groove who felt that the Analog Productions version was better. The biggest difference being the resolution and air around each of the performers ( which maybe the mixing engineer's input?) was much greater on the One Step.
An example of the much greater resolution, the MOFI One Step also exposes details I have not noticed before in the other two pressings - namely that while Buddy Guy is playing accompanying guitar, Muddy occasionally taps or rubs his own guitar while singing. For me, this is really hard to hear even on the 45 rpm Analog Productions pressing, but is really obvious on the One Step. This is an important detail as Muddy was enticed into this studio session with the allowance of playing his own guitar while singing.
Hi Kilson, thank you, and thank you again for such a well written and informative comment. The more I listen to these, the more I appreciate the One Step pressing for all the reasons you mention. That extra resolution really helps recreate an uncanny illusion of the session and is truly a joy to hear. I remember when I thought the Anadisc was really something special and let's face it, it's really hard to screw up this recording. Most are going to sound pretty damn good. But what a revelation these new masterings have given us. I love them all but the Anadisc is now a distant third for sure. Thanks so much for giving your perspective.
Addendum: The UK pressing is from Chess pressed from Abby Roads studio 1997.
One other aspect of these pressings I also want to point out is the picture quality of the album cover on the MOFI One Step is abysmal - purposefully smeared / softened to the point of not being able to see Muddy's beard or facial lines. The UK pressing had the best picture details and color balance which show facial details and that Muddy is wearing a white dress shirt.
@@killsonhammer1291 True, it doesn't get mentioned much, but a lot of the One Steps have poor quality artwork.
On another related note, how do you feel about the presentation (boxes, inserts etc?)
My first copy (nr 008198) had to return it, now on my 2nd copy (Nr 008211). Ps liked the bonus tracks on my cd copy CHD-12027 (USA version). Should i buy Analogue Productions 33rpm/45rpm? Or both?
They are close in sound but I would get the AP 45, and either keep both or sell off the MOFI. The AP is a very attractive package at a great price with the best sound overall.
@@ThePressingMatters Thank you! I am always looking for a better CD/sacd/vinyl of my favorite albums. Now I will wait for some reviews of Roger Waters - Amused to death 4lp Analogue Production vinyl box set! 😎
@@jrgenholteng1529 Perhaps I will pick this up and review it. I've never had or heard the album but have always been curious. I love Pink Floyd, but not that into the later Waters material or solo stuff I've heard. I know it's supposed to be a sonic treat. How do you like the material on Amused To Death?
@@ThePressingMatters As of now I have the 2lp version from Analogue Production, and the hybrid sacd. The sound is wide and would say surround sound in a way (Qsound). Goes from loud to whisper. I think I like the songs "What God Wants, part 1, 2 and 3" . It's overall a good album, if not the best.
I picked this up for the super vinyl because Disc 2 of my AP is noisy, even after replacement.
Hi Austin, thanks for watching! What did you think of the One Step? Aside from the noise issue, did you prefer one over the other?
@@ThePressingMatters Don't have it yet! I live in Switzerland and I'm having my sister forward the two copies I bought, so hopefully I'll have it soon. If it's a similar cut and the Mofi is quieter than my AP, I'm sure I'll be very happy.
@@austinhunt4260 Oh ok. Please let us know here in the comments what your impressions are! I love hearing a new perspective on these comparisons. I appreciate you taking the time to comment. Thanks again!
I don't have any One Steps but I'm thinking about Miles Davis "Bitches Brew". I already have the MOFI "Bitches Brew" from a few years ago. This One Step will be 33 1/3 which I like but any thoughts about whether it's worth shelling out $125 for what is basically another MOFI?
Hi Donald, thanks for your comment. I put it on preorder because I've never had a copy but your MOFI is as great as it always was. It's a lot of money for a slight upgrade. The only way I'd do it would be if my copy was noisy and it was my favorite album. Then again, it will increase in value where you could recoup your money if you don't feel the advantage is worth it. Maybe you'll come out ahead!. But seriously thank you for watching, I love your comment too. Home to see you in other discussions.
@@ThePressingMatters Thanks for the speedy reply. It's not even my favorite Miles Davis album but I do really like it.
I regret not getting the Dylan "Blood on the Tracks" which got panned for bad quality control at issue but is now regarded as much better than the original MOFI which I have
This video didn't age well
Maybe not but it still sounds the same with the knowledge or not. If you watched to the end, I didn't declare any better than the other. Just different strengths. My opinion hasn't changed.
The MOFI has extra detail, the AP more natural overall. But yeah I'm not to happy with MOFI the company. But some sound good, others not so much.