The written review is now up at Audiophilia! You can access this review here: www.audiophilia.com/reviews/2025/1/26/yes-fragile-analogue-productions-atlantic-75-vinyl-review-2-lp-45rpm-2025
I really love the way you render climax! I hoped the conclusion would be the way it was, really. But I got so engulfed with your description of particular pressing that your conclusion was quite a revelation. Thanks a lot and keep on like that. I'm almost 70 and remember listening to FRAGILE sometime at the end of February or march 1972 in Poland, Cracow. I was in my secondary school and decided to skipped my classes to relish in the music. Gone are the days but the feeling still remains. Thanks a lot!
Thank you so much for this wonderful comment! I'm so glad you enjoyed the presentation! I like to keep you in suspense! Your memories of hearing this over the years was really cool!
Thank you Sir, this was a great video, and appreciate your input. I also own several pressings of this classic album, and still have to pick the AP 75th. I recently got the Rhino 2016 and agree, it does sounds pretty good....cheers ✌️
@@ThePressingMatters Heh, just giving you a hard time... I noticed an e'mail with a reply of yours, but I don't see it here. You mentioned that you also like the MFSL Aqualung album. That's good to know, I've just always felt it was more lively and dynamic, especially compared to what I felt was a rather dull and lifeless DCC pressing.
Excellent review, Scott. Listening to the new AP 75th anniversary pressing, I found myself thinking this might be the best sounding release yet of Fragile. It truly is outstanding. I have several other versions as well, such as a '72 Presswell, a '74 Japan, a 2012 Analogue Productions Kevin Gray Steve Hoffman, and the 2018 Steven Wilson remix from the box set.
Hi Alan, Thank you! It might very well be. I was curious and played the original AP from 2006 last night. I liked it in a way, but its definitely warmer and rolled off on top. I think most will like the detailed sound of the new version. It seems to me to have the best balance overall. Have never heard the remix, yet!
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this. I have the 2016 KG cut and I am very satisfied with it. I do have a few of the A75 albums and enjoy them quite a bit. However, I find that unless I absolutely LOVE an album I will be moving away from buying 2x45 releases in the future. Breaking up the sides for me takes away from the enjoyment of the album from an artistic perspective.
Hi Arnaldo! I feel the same. I'm more than happy to have the best 33. On this case the differences are small, and I too enjoy the program and sequencing as it was intended. I think there is a bigger case to be made for The Yes Album 45, which was clearly ahead of all competition. Thank you for your perspective on this! Great to hear from you! Scott
Mine just arrived in the mail yesterday and will hit the turntable tomorrow when I have some time to dedicate to listening. The reason I had to pull the trigger is that my OG had some noise issues. I also purchased The Yes Album and Purple by Stone Temple Pilots.
Scott, very informative shootout, as always. I own the 2016 KG, and the new A75 KG 45rpm. I also have an original US "1841 Broadway", GP mastered version. I agree with you finding the two KG cuts to be similar, with a little extra to be found on the 45. However, my US OG is an entirely different animal. Less bass BUT not bass deficient, and with detail that I've never heard with any other pressing. You can hear the individual voices in the harmonies, you can hear the bass guitar strings being plucked. To use a wine adjective, it has great complexity. KG's cuts, in comparison, trade a certain amount of detail for power. His are theatrical, operatic. The OG exact and confident. I find I like both, actually. It would depend on my mood. I had the exact same review of the A75 The Yes Album, vs a US original. I wonder if these were all choices that KG preferred, or whether this 50+ year tape is degrading. Heart of the Sunrise has a fair amount of tape hiss (easily heard because the A75 is SO quiet), so is that a tip off that some detail just isn't there anymore? Maybe someone knows the answer to that. Glad you are digging your scout, btw. I went VPI also and am very happy.
Great comment! I would love to hear that US pressing. I probably had that back in the 70’s! I don't doubt the record sounds fresher than the last several reissues. It sounds like something I would like!
Thank you very much for the detailed review. I am a bit afraid of the future AP75 release of Close to the Edge (namely cutting the title track in two halves). What do you think?
Hi Scott, I have the mofi 2x45 one step. Like you, I really liked it a lot when I first got it. I believe you when you say the Atlantic 75 version is better. I'm just not sure I can muster the will to buy it, given all the other records I want to buy, my vinyl storage space already filled to the brim, and the hassles of selling my mofi set. But we'll see. It takes so little effort to add it to my cart, then check out. Just a few clicks, then it's done. I don't even have to enter my credit card number, it's already stored in my account. Just a few clicks. We'll see. Meantime, thank you for another very thoughtful, insightful, and well-done video essay on this super important and much beloved title. I promise I won't blame you if I end up going bankrupt. (Even though it will be just a little bit your fault.) (kidding!!! ;-) ;-) ;-) Warm wishes, Ron
Nicely done, Scott. Guess AP liked it enough that this was posted on Facebook advertising the album. For me?... I'm trying to resist because I just don't need another. Besides, I still love the Wilson remix, of which I mentioned to you before. Btw, you might like to know that issue is getting a standalone release next week. I like the glossy cover, so I think I'm relenting on that issue for that cover. But they don't include the booklet. Anyway, if you want to hear a different take, it's up for order.
@ThePressingMatters if it weren't for the glossy cover I'd pass as I have the remix in the box set. But yeah, man do we need some different stuff. The same ole thing has pretty much exhausted itself.
Thanks for all the work you put into this review. Saved me some $ as it doesn’t sound like this new one is that much better than the 2016 cut, and I too prefer 33’s
Thank you for watching and commenting. I'm glad you found the commentary helpful in making a decision. With the 2016, you have the best 33. Its an incredible value! I appreciate the kind words on my work!
I only have a '73 Dutch pressing to compare, but man, this AP version blows it out of the water. Thanks for your detailed report on those different versions. I don't think I'll ever be buying another one. This is my new go-to pressing.
Thanks Scott, nice review. What is the release date on it? My local record store shows that as a pre-order with a 1/24/25 release date. I would assume it’s the same version. And interesting enough, they also show a Steven Wilson remix with the same release date.
It says- Analogue Productions 75th Anniversary of Atlantic Records 180-gram 45 RPM double LP Mastered by Chris Bellman at Bernie Grundman Mastering from the original master tape Pressed at Quality Record Pressings. Could also be an error on the website!
Ah, a review that *ISN'T* Classical or some obscure Jazz album! 😃And, Fragile to boot, THANK YOU! Seriously, I know that some of the SH/KG albums and the DCC albums are highly considered. But, some to me have come across exactly as you said here. I also have the DCC Aqualung, and over various changes in my system, I never liked it and found it rather dull and lifeless. FWIW, although some may question the EQ choices on some of the early MFSL pressings, on my system I personally find the MFSL Aqualung way more dynamic and lively. I do have the 2016 Kevin Gray. I need to give it another listen on my system, but I'm glad to have you reaffirm how good it is, and that is good to know how good the AP 2-LP 45 is too, thank you Sir!
Hi, Great to hear from you. I know I've been in some obscure genres recently, so thanks for your patience in getting back to classic rock. I couldn't NOT check this one out! Its always been a favorite since it came out! Either of the top two are great pressings! System changes can change your views on some pressings. I've found its best to keep them all because you never know! That's why I have too many records 😃
@@ThePressingMatters Thanks man! Yeah, very helpful review and good to know the KG sounds so good. Actually, I did give side 2 a listen today and today my system seemed to be firing on all cylinders, and you know, it sounded bloody awesome! So, I'm glad you got me to listen to it again, I think it will be just fine for me. Isn't it weird how on some days your system can sound different then other days. Even Patrick has mentioned that time of day can make a difference. I'm always so surprised when an album one day doesn't sound very good, and yet another day like today with Fragile, it can sound great!
Hey Scott! I had a copy of the 2016 and I thought it was a bit too bright. I got the MoFi OneStep and thought the midrange was glorious and has the typical 45 advantages. Yes, the bass is, at times, a bit too much. It's the last OneStep I've heard that I thought was really good overall. But I'm wondering if you think it, given that I have the OneStep, how much better, the AP is. Perhaps you could quantify it in some way. (And I did watch the previous Fragile video a couple of weeks ago). Best, Jeff
Hi Jeff. Yes, as it you can see in both videos, I have a lot of praise for the MOFI and even the AP 2006. They are both great. If you thought the 2016 was bright, which I could see might be the case for some tastes, do NOT go for the new 45. I think I've learned a bit about your preferences, and they often mirror mine, but I think you would prefer the sound of the One Step. I go back and forth between all four. And my perception of them changed a bit with system changes. If a system is now giving you more resolution, the original AP might be perfect for a smooth listen. And so on. With this recording, which I don't think is as good as The Yes Album, there's a little compromise in each mastering. Although I think for many, the new AP will be very revealing, it could be perceived as brighter and too detailed by some.
@@ThePressingMatters The OneStep can get a little thick down below, but I'm wondering whether I need to spend another $60 and find out. I haven't listened to the OneStep in a while. I'll pull it out soon and give it a fresh listen.
I would do that before jumping into anything. If you still have the 2016 spin that too. The AP is closest to the 2016 and may go further in that direction by a hair.
Oh right. If you didn't like the 2016, then I'd say stay where you are on this one. If its a top album for you, try it out or try and hear it somehow. You'll know immediately if its for you.
I absolutely agree with your analysis, I own the 2016 and it is fantastic, I have heard the one step only on DSD and it is very bass-heavy, distant from the reality of Chris Squire and the band. I have several AP 75th and am very happy with them; I'm waiting for my Fragile, thank you very much for your review
I am gonna get the Steven Wilson remix coming out soon. I am sure this will be the best. I like all his remixes. I have an original 1972 press and I love it. I listened to the Steven Wilson remix streaming and it sounds amazing. Steven’s work on jethro Tull was amazing
Rhino is coming out with an exclusive version of Yes Fragile that was remixed by Steve Wilson this friday and is a nice looking green colored vinyl. I wonder how Steve Wilson remix of fragile compares to the 2016 version and 45. The cover art is also different. Maybe I’ll get it and compare it with my 2016. I want to get the 45 to hear how it sounds compared to the 2016 but then I suddenly found out another version will be releasing, ugh the dilemma.
The 2016 is the gold standard in my opinion. The 45 managed to keep the balance with slight improvements. A remix could be very interesting. Is this going to be a new remix. I'm sure Steven has done one already.
@@ThePressingMatters I think its a reissue from 2018 of his remix for the album but in green vinyl. I was surprised Rhino suddenly is doing a limited reissue of steven's remix.
Hi Scott. Like yourself I have quite a few Fragile copies and also CD's. I do love the One-Step and since I don't have tone controls I appreciate a nice thump! And Heart of The Sunrise on the Mofi is just brilliant. I do not have the 2016 KG but I have to say that as a 33 RPM, the BG cut from the 2024 boxset is spectacular as well, and from your description of the 2016, I feel the same about the 2024. At times I even felt that it's better than the Mofi....until I play the Mofi that is! I'm on the fence about the AP Fragile since I have so many and can enjoy what I have .... I think 😆 Cheers
You have one of the finest copies, and for many people the Mofi will be more than enough. I think if you must try another Fragile, the 2016 is one you might want to hear. Its inexpensive and beautiful. You'll hear the difference in how the bass is more integrated and balanced. The new 45 is for those that don't have either of these two, or the curious fan of the album that is willing to shell out another $60.
I wish folks would stop running the old trope theme of Yes Mofi sounds bad because DSD. No it sounds bad for the reasons Scott mentioned. The bass is ridiculous. Thanks for the review Scott! I think I am 45’d out. I feel a shift in the audiophile world. As if thousands of audiophiles suddenly realized “We want great sounding 33’s not PIA 45’s” ;)
Great comment, and I agree. The mastering is the determining factor, however it is transferred to us. The MOFI could have been the top of not for the heavy-handed bass extension. I also agree with your thoughts on 45. I'm not on board with adding more and more in this format. I liked it when it was a once-in-a-while thing, something special for albums that could benefit from it. The space, the extra cost, and frequent flipping are pushing me away from the format. Again, the mastering is what makes all the difference, and great work can be done on 33rpm. I don't see 45 as the future honestly. I see it as a relic of the age of excess. I look at my Classic 45 sets, some four or five records for one album! I have a feeling a lot of these will be making their way back to the market.
I have an Australian pressing, UK maroon original, US Warner Brothers, Rhino 180g 33, & Ultradisc 45. So I am sort of a "completist" so it looks like I'll be investing in the Atlantic 75 45.
That is quite a collection! It sounds like you have the 2016 I spoke so highly of. If that Rhino is the Kevin Gray Cohearant cut, you have a great one already!
Hey Scott, I’m Tony from Chicago. I was wondering if you have any update about the Diana Krall album “The Look of Love”, do you have any knowledge about when Acoustic Sounds will have a replacement copy for the defective version. I can’t seem to get any thing from anyone at Acoustic Sounds. If you have any info, please let me know. Thanks!!!!
Thanks Scott, the last update that I received from them was a letter stating they would send a replacement disc for the defective copy. I really enjoy all of your videos regarding the classical Living Stereo reviews. Thanks to you I became interested in my Father’s classical library of vintage vinyl. Have a great day!!!!
That's the last I heard about it too. I know the presses are very busy with the latest releases. I'm sure it will be here one day! So glad to hear you love the Living Stereo videos. There's another coming shortly that I think you'll find interesting!
Thanks, I’m looking forward to it. I hate that I wasn’t able to get a copy of Alexander Gibson’s Sibelius. I’m hoping that this one isn’t being discontinued. I was able to get a copy on hybrid sacd, but I still would like the vinyl version.
I know. That was a series of unfortunate circumstances. I know I have a little influence, but I had nothing to do with that one. Sibelius disappeared as my video premiered, maybe a day or two earlier. Same thing with Petroushka. The Rachmaninoff piano Concerto and Prokofiev Alexander Nevsky lasted a little while after my review. So far the Chopin and Debussy are holding on! Just so you know, next one will be Spain, followed by The Four Seasons.
Thanks Scott - informative and useful video 👍 I've ordered the KG 2016 From a seller here in Denmark, though). For me the whole concept of chopping the original work into 4 parts to get a limited sound-technical advantage is disqualifying. It's technique over music - which I think is a sad trend... So thanks for recommending KG 2016 (and I wouldn't buy any Atlantic 75 anyway).
@@ThePressingMatters Great - I'm sure I will! I have bundled it in an order w. Miles Davis "Birth Of The Blue" (to save shipping) which won't be here until mid. February - But I'll leave a comment when I've listened.
The Mofi box is great! I just felt I needed to point out that the result is system-dependent. It may sound perfect on the speaker that doesn't reach down that low. That's what I had when I first heard it, and it sounded great. If one had subwoofers on each side or a full-range tower it could sound bass-heavy. Still great in so many aspects. Thanks for watching!
Hi Micheal, Thanks for your comment! No, I didn't hear his version of Fragile, unfortunately. I did hear his box-set version of The Yes Album. It didn't come close to what they did on the Atlantic 75 of that title.
Hi Scott I am still waiting for Fragile to arrive in the UK , should be anytime now . Have not got Close to the edge and was wondering if it's worth ordering ? Would value your opinion 🎉😁
OUTSTANDING, what a great pressing of Fragile , will definitely be getting Close to the edge now 😁👍. Hope your listening to some new music for us to enjoy your reviews .
How many times have I bought this album? At least five. Well guess what - it's Groundhog Day, so, time to buy it again! Listened to the KG 45 cut last night, and I agree - AP nailed it.. I'm thinking the buck stops here.
Hi Dave! It does get a bit silly, our obsession with certain albums. I think this one deserves it, and now we have it with the royal treatment! I think I'm done on Fragile. I must have heard it 20 times over the last few months! I'll file it and return to it fresh next year!
It's pretty close. Not the quantum leap that The Yes Album was, but smaller improvements. If you love 2016, I think you're good. It's quite similar. To do anything much different would have changed the character of the record for the worse.
Ooo, shots fired! I still don't really completely understand why Mobile Fidelity sticks with the DSD part especially when reviews like yours of this album keep coming out with one steps getting surpassed... People are liking the Off the Wall one step though 🤔
As they say in Brazil, “shut up and take my money!” (sold!) I have the Steve Hoffman version, the MFSL 45 and another one…I don’t mind 45s so will pick this up. I watched your previous video with the full shoot out. That was a lot of work! I’m glad this version holds up to the others, the Yes album was great, and it will be interesting to see how Close to the Edge turns out. Thank you for the video!
Thanks Scott. If I may elaborate a bit on your point about the MoFi 1-step being too bass heavy…. 1. It ruined the unique tonality of Chris Squire’s Rickenbecker bass guitar which was crisp and clean sounding. 2. It ruined the sonic intricacies of the interaction between the bass guitar and Bill Bruford’s fine and crisp drumming, especially in Long Distance/Fish. Hope you agree.
Very interesting, Fragile 1-step MoFi 45 is the only one by Krieg W that does not have a boomy base in my system. He managed to screw up all 4 albums with Dire Straits and other… I guess it is system based perhaps, or!? Played on TechDas, Kuzma 4P, Ortofon D, Sonus Faber Stradivari 35 Anni. As always top review!
I'm so surprised that you don't find his Fragile over the top in the bass dept! You might have a great copy of Fragile there! I think a lot if it comes down to system and preferences for sure.
As I mentioned, its still enjoyable, but the bass doesn't have the clarity and bounce of the best pressings. The extra bass slows thing down in my opinion.
So, you're sayin' yer NOT a Meghan Trainor fan (get it, "All About the Bass"!!). Thanks for another exhaustive review of this landmark Yes album. I have the recently released RHINO deluxe box set and really enjoy the hi-rez Blu-ray.
LOL, actually I do like bass and now my system can reproduce it. So when something is off, I notice it. Thank you so much for watching and commenting on this Fragile video!
When you have senior ears, like me, pushing those higher frequencies are helpful. A booming bass is OK but when the music is overly compressed it sounds muddy. I am one of those fools who seems to buy the "Fragile" album over and over again. I've got the 1972 U.S. OG, the 2016 KG, CD, DVD, BD, the 2019 45rpm Mofi, the 2023 KG re-issue on clear vinyl, the 2024 box with mastering by BG and am waiting for the latest AP 45 rpm new version. I made the mistake of ordering 2 of the Mofi 'one-step' from 2 different sources. It took me 3 tries to make 1 good boxed set from Amazon. Amazon doesn't just replace the defective record in a multi-disc box, they have to exchange the entire box set. Luckily, Amazon isn't in a hurry to receive the return, so it gives me the opportunity to pick out the best and then send back the rest. I believe that Music Direct just sent me replacement copies. They don't want the defectives back,
Even though I'm getting up there in age, my high-frequency hearing is sensitive. Too much and I run! So u guess it's intact or it's just not a sound signature I like. I was discussing this recently with a friend if the brighter mastering of older rock records is to please those who might have lost a little on top of the hearing range. Sounds like you love Fragile! I'd be very interested in how you react to it! Please come back and let us know!
@@ThePressingMatters Sure. Normally, as we age, we start losing the ability to hear the higher frequencies. People like me, with tinnitus, compounds the problems. Putting more emphasis on the highs helps us to hear them. Besides no ticks or pops, the high frequency sound reproduction is what sold me on CD's. When my hearing was fairly normal, I could hear the tape hiss on many recordings. The CD amplified this and it used to drive me up the wall. I fully understand that excessive high frequencies drive some people up the wall. Thankfully, that is why we have tone controls, equalizers and filters. Now, the extraneous sounds I pick up on is the sound caused by the friction of the stylus running through the grooves. Listening through headphones , I can usually identify where the records were pressed. An Optimal Media pressing is easiest for me to identify. With the Blue Note Tone Poet series, they are usually pressed at Optimal, RTI or QRP. The Optimal pressings stick out to me like a sore thumb.
Oh ok, well if it sounds good, and it certainly might, you are probably all set. This will appeal to rabid Yes fans, who might not have a clean good sounding copy. It’s a very nice edition.
@@ThePressingMatters I've been more into classical and jazz these days, although I do get some rock. I've got seventeen albums coming from Acoustic Sounds today, lol.
I have an OG U.S. pressing of Yes' Fragile. It sounds pretty good. At this time I do not consider MoFi to be a serious audiophile company. Digitally produced music has its place, but it is not the state of the art, and it is not what I consider to be audiophile in the league of all analogue recordings. I wouldn't be surprised if the entire MoFi Fragile album was produced digitally in something like Hi-Res. I'd be willing to bet my paycheck on it. Yes isn't a band I like enough to seek out another copy of Fragile. I'll stick with the OG; shelf space wins. Have you heard the OG U.S. pressing of Fragile and how does it compare with the other recordings you mentioned? 🤔
Thanks for the great comment, my friend! An original US pressing is said to be a good one. I have not heard one in years and didn't find one for the first shootout. I'm not against using a DSD capture as a starting point, but my main beef with Mofi is the mastering choices. Some are terribly bright and “detailed” and Fragile goes heavy in the opposite way, which I guess is less offensive to me. I can enjoy their Fragile. I get that shelf space is at a premium. I'm starting to deal with this again, and will have to give away a lot of records I don't need or have space for. I really would probably been ok with the 2016 33rpm as my sole copy of Fragile and eventually it will be the one to stay. I feel my viewers want to hear about these big reissues, so I end up buying them. Not unhappy about it, but common sense has to prevail at some point!
@@ThePressingMatters Thanks for your take on the sound quality of the Fragile OG U.S. pressing. I'm happy with it. It didn't cost me much and the media is in NM condition. Since I'm not really a big fan of prog rock, unless it more fully embraces blues, I don't really seek out albums in that genre beyond certain high spots like Fragile.
@@ThePressingMatters The proper use of DSD is when all analogue isn't possible and the company is transparent about it. Chad & Company are good about this, because Chad is a genuine audiophile who cares about more than just profit. Unfortunately MoFi has a checkered past on transparency, so I've lost faith in them. Long before the DSD scandal broke, I stopped buying their albums circa 2014. The music never sounded that great to me, and I encountered a lot of pressing defects. I wasn't surprised to hear that they were using DSD instead of all analogue when the story broke. I felt vindicated in not buying their albums anymore.
@@audiophileman7047 the AT/GP- Atlantic/ George Piros- in the deadwax,US OG, is incredible. I have 2 in near mint condition. I have never considered needing any other copy. Beware of the early US without gp in the deadwax. They are dead and lifeless.
Thanks for the presentation and analysis! I’m not as enamored with this most recent AP 45 reissue and it’s not remotely close to the wonderful work on the AP45 ‘Yes Album’ reissue from a few months ago. If you have the 2016 33rpm just stick with that - it’s more alive and natural than this most recent reissue. I’m not sure what’s with Kevin Gray, the quality of his output seems to be all over the place these days.
Maybe too much work on his plate! The man doesn't seem to stop. The 2016 remains my favorite, for the sound and format of the 33. I didn't find the AP to be less than, but it could be system dependant. Anyway I appreciate your comments and thank you for watching!
This is one thing I've learned - as you change components, cartridges, rooms and so forth, a pressing that you once thought was blah, suddenly sounds great and vice versa. That's why I have too many copies of these records. My opinion could change with a new cartridge. I'll be putting this to the test again, as four new cartridges are coming in for review!
@@ThePressingMatters funny,with fresh ears this morning I listened to the AP 45 and I definitely enjoyed it more - lots of detail without being too analytical and the vocal harmonies shine as does Bruford’s remarkable drumming. I’d say it’s a buy for sure but the 33 is still great.
To be honest, during my first few plays, I had a similar reaction. I've learned to wait and give it a try on another day. Sometimes it's the system, your receptivity, your initial expectations. It was on a subsequent night, that the new version clicked., maybe my expectations had been too high, given the work The Yes Album, but the beauty of the new mastering came through as I listened more to it. I know how Hanas can sound as they break in and they change rapidly in the first 25 hours. Perhaps you crossed a threshold in the process of break-in. At any rate, I'm glad you are enjoying the new version now!
Yes are my all time favorite band. I have over 30 versions of Fragile. I have the same exact opinion you have of the UK plum label. I never understood the love for it. I find it rough and overly aggressive not to mention just plain noisy.
Yes, the plum labels were the biggest disappointment after years of seeing them. Are you thinking you need another Fragile? I'm guessing probably not!!
Well I will really respect your opinion on the new one, since you have so many copies to make a clear judgement. Please come back and let us know what you think!
@@ThePressingMatters Hi Scott, I have Kevin Gray's 33 version of this LP which sounds great. I don't plan on buying another, oh so slightly better sounding copy of it. I think what I was trying to say in my comment is that, can I really justify buying it again, just to play it once or maybe twice and then putting it away. I purchased the rhino, Kevin Gray Doors box set, played it twice, then put in on the shelf for looks. How many times can they reissue the same music over and over again. Why can't they reissue more sought after music like Can, Budgie, etc. How many times can you listen to Aja before you decide to get rid of your HI-FI system and move on to a new hobby.
I completely understand your point and yes, I think you can surmise that I too think very highly of Kevin’s 2016. If you have that, you have a great copy and not a lot of reason to go forward with another, very similar Fragile.
I too am getting tired of the same old titles. I'd love some reissues of the bands you mention or even Gentle Giant, Renaissance. They have every poor reissues thus far.
The written review is now up at Audiophilia! You can access this review here:
www.audiophilia.com/reviews/2025/1/26/yes-fragile-analogue-productions-atlantic-75-vinyl-review-2-lp-45rpm-2025
I really love the way you render climax! I hoped the conclusion would be the way it was, really. But I got so engulfed with your description of particular pressing that your conclusion was quite a revelation. Thanks a lot and keep on like that. I'm almost 70 and remember listening to FRAGILE sometime at the end of February or march 1972 in Poland, Cracow. I was in my secondary school and decided to skipped my classes to relish in the music. Gone are the days but the feeling still remains. Thanks a lot!
Thank you so much for this wonderful comment! I'm so glad you enjoyed the presentation! I like to keep you in suspense!
Your memories of hearing this over the years was really cool!
Thank you Sir, this was a great video, and appreciate your input. I also own several pressings of this classic album, and still have to pick the AP 75th. I recently got the Rhino 2016 and agree, it does sounds pretty good....cheers ✌️
Awesome! I am glad you enjoyed the review, and would love to have you return with your thoughts on the AP75!
I finally got my copy in last week. Only listened once so far and love it.
Great video as always. I look forward to your reviews of these rock albums.
Thank you for watching and commenting. I think most will be pleased with this.
@@ThePressingMatters You DO notice how he specified 'Rock' albums... 😁
Trust me! I’m noticing the view count is soaring compared to Swingle II 😆
I'm going to make my way back to some big rock titles!
@@ThePressingMatters Heh, just giving you a hard time... I noticed an e'mail with a reply of yours, but I don't see it here. You mentioned that you also like the MFSL Aqualung album. That's good to know, I've just always felt it was more lively and dynamic, especially compared to what I felt was a rather dull and lifeless DCC pressing.
Thanks!
Thank you so much Marco! I appreciate your support for my work!
Excellent review, Scott. Listening to the new AP 75th anniversary pressing, I found myself thinking this might be the best sounding release yet of Fragile. It truly is outstanding. I have several other versions as well, such as a '72 Presswell, a '74 Japan, a 2012 Analogue Productions Kevin Gray Steve Hoffman, and the 2018 Steven Wilson remix from the box set.
Hi Alan,
Thank you!
It might very well be. I was curious and played the original AP from 2006 last night. I liked it in a way, but its definitely warmer and rolled off on top. I think most will like the detailed sound of the new version. It seems to me to have the best balance overall. Have never heard the remix, yet!
Great review as usual Scott. Looks likwe have a definitive 33 and 45 of this pressing.
Thank you, Jim. I think that's correct. Both are very good and far past the competition.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this. I have the 2016 KG cut and I am very satisfied with it. I do have a few of the A75 albums and enjoy them quite a bit. However, I find that unless I absolutely LOVE an album I will be moving away from buying 2x45 releases in the future. Breaking up the sides for me takes away from the enjoyment of the album from an artistic perspective.
Hi Arnaldo!
I feel the same. I'm more than happy to have the best 33. On this case the differences are small, and I too enjoy the program and sequencing as it was intended. I think there is a bigger case to be made for The Yes Album 45, which was clearly ahead of all competition.
Thank you for your perspective on this! Great to hear from you!
Scott
Mine just arrived in the mail yesterday and will hit the turntable tomorrow when I have some time to dedicate to listening. The reason I had to pull the trigger is that my OG had some noise issues. I also purchased The Yes Album and Purple by Stone Temple Pilots.
Hi Jason,
Hope you find it an upgrade from the OG!
Scott, very informative shootout, as always.
I own the 2016 KG, and the new A75 KG 45rpm. I also have an original US "1841 Broadway", GP mastered version.
I agree with you finding the two KG cuts to be similar, with a little extra to be found on the 45.
However, my US OG is an entirely different animal. Less bass BUT not bass deficient, and with detail that I've never heard with any other pressing. You can hear the individual voices in the harmonies, you can hear the bass guitar strings being plucked. To use a wine adjective, it has great complexity.
KG's cuts, in comparison, trade a certain amount of detail for power. His are theatrical, operatic. The OG exact and confident.
I find I like both, actually. It would depend on my mood.
I had the exact same review of the A75 The Yes Album, vs a US original.
I wonder if these were all choices that KG preferred, or whether this 50+ year tape is degrading. Heart of the Sunrise has a fair amount of tape hiss (easily heard because the A75 is SO quiet), so is that a tip off that some detail just isn't there anymore?
Maybe someone knows the answer to that.
Glad you are digging your scout, btw. I went VPI also and am very happy.
Great comment! I would love to hear that US pressing. I probably had that back in the 70’s! I don't doubt the record sounds fresher than the last several reissues. It sounds like something I would like!
Thank you very much for the detailed review. I am a bit afraid of the future AP75 release of Close to the Edge (namely cutting the title track in two halves). What do you think?
There should be a law against that sort of thing,Imagine Tales from Topographic Oceans on 4 lps.
Hi Scott,
I have the mofi 2x45 one step. Like you, I really liked it a lot when I first got it.
I believe you when you say the Atlantic 75 version is better. I'm just not sure I can muster the will to buy it, given all the other records I want to buy, my vinyl storage space already filled to the brim, and the hassles of selling my mofi set.
But we'll see. It takes so little effort to add it to my cart, then check out. Just a few clicks, then it's done. I don't even have to enter my credit card number, it's already stored in my account. Just a few clicks. We'll see.
Meantime, thank you for another very thoughtful, insightful, and well-done video essay on this super important and much beloved title. I promise I won't blame you if I end up going bankrupt. (Even though it will be just a little bit your fault.) (kidding!!! ;-) ;-) ;-)
Warm wishes,
Ron
Thanks for the review. Food for thought
Thanks for watching!
Nicely done, Scott.
Guess AP liked it enough that this was posted on Facebook advertising the album.
For me?... I'm trying to resist because I just don't need another.
Besides, I still love the Wilson remix, of which I mentioned to you before.
Btw, you might like to know that issue is getting a standalone release next week.
I like the glossy cover, so I think I'm relenting on that issue for that cover. But they don't include the booklet.
Anyway, if you want to hear a different take, it's up for order.
Thank you!
That's cool, I hadn't seen that.
No harm in missing yet another Fragile! It will be there for quite some time if you change your mind.
I'll take a look at the remix. I'm curious but as you know, I think I've listened to it enough for a few more years!
@ThePressingMatters if it weren't for the glossy cover I'd pass as I have the remix in the box set.
But yeah, man do we need some different stuff. The same ole thing has pretty much exhausted itself.
@ Agreed!
Thanks for all the work you put into this review. Saved me some $ as it doesn’t sound like this new one is that much better than the 2016 cut, and I too prefer 33’s
Thank you for watching and commenting. I'm glad you found the commentary helpful in making a decision. With the 2016, you have the best 33. Its an incredible value!
I appreciate the kind words on my work!
I only have a '73 Dutch pressing to compare, but man, this AP version blows it out of the water. Thanks for your detailed report on those different versions. I don't think I'll ever be buying another one. This is my new go-to pressing.
That's great that you found this a big leap over your previous reference! I can imagine based on my exposure to the various import pressings.
Thanks Scott, nice review. What is the release date on it? My local record store shows that as a pre-order with a 1/24/25 release date. I would assume it’s the same version. And interesting enough, they also show a Steven Wilson remix with the same release date.
Thank you!
This is out already, I think you're seeing the Steven Wilson release date.
It says- Analogue Productions 75th Anniversary of Atlantic Records 180-gram 45 RPM double LP Mastered by Chris Bellman at Bernie Grundman Mastering from the original master tape Pressed at Quality Record Pressings. Could also be an error on the website!
Hmm, that seems like an error somewhere!
Ah, a review that *ISN'T* Classical or some obscure Jazz album! 😃And, Fragile to boot, THANK YOU! Seriously, I know that some of the SH/KG albums and the DCC albums are highly considered. But, some to me have come across exactly as you said here. I also have the DCC Aqualung, and over various changes in my system, I never liked it and found it rather dull and lifeless. FWIW, although some may question the EQ choices on some of the early MFSL pressings, on my system I personally find the MFSL Aqualung way more dynamic and lively.
I do have the 2016 Kevin Gray. I need to give it another listen on my system, but I'm glad to have you reaffirm how good it is, and that is good to know how good the AP 2-LP 45 is too, thank you Sir!
Hi, Great to hear from you. I know I've been in some obscure genres recently, so thanks for your patience in getting back to classic rock. I couldn't NOT check this one out! Its always been a favorite since it came out! Either of the top two are great pressings!
System changes can change your views on some pressings. I've found its best to keep them all because you never know! That's why I have too many records 😃
@@ThePressingMatters Thanks man! Yeah, very helpful review and good to know the KG sounds so good. Actually, I did give side 2 a listen today and today my system seemed to be firing on all cylinders, and you know, it sounded bloody awesome! So, I'm glad you got me to listen to it again, I think it will be just fine for me. Isn't it weird how on some days your system can sound different then other days. Even Patrick has mentioned that time of day can make a difference. I'm always so surprised when an album one day doesn't sound very good, and yet another day like today with Fragile, it can sound great!
Hey Scott! I had a copy of the 2016 and I thought it was a bit too bright. I got the MoFi OneStep and thought the midrange was glorious and has the typical 45 advantages. Yes, the bass is, at times, a bit too much. It's the last OneStep I've heard that I thought was really good overall. But I'm wondering if you think it, given that I have the OneStep, how much better, the AP is. Perhaps you could quantify it in some way. (And I did watch the previous Fragile video a couple of weeks ago). Best, Jeff
Hi Jeff.
Yes, as it you can see in both videos, I have a lot of praise for the MOFI and even the AP 2006. They are both great.
If you thought the 2016 was bright, which I could see might be the case for some tastes, do NOT go for the new 45. I think I've learned a bit about your preferences, and they often mirror mine, but I think you would prefer the sound of the One Step. I go back and forth between all four. And my perception of them changed a bit with system changes. If a system is now giving you more resolution, the original AP might be perfect for a smooth listen. And so on. With this recording, which I don't think is as good as The Yes Album, there's a little compromise in each mastering. Although I think for many, the new AP will be very revealing, it could be perceived as brighter and too detailed by some.
@@ThePressingMatters The OneStep can get a little thick down below, but I'm wondering whether I need to spend another $60 and find out. I haven't listened to the OneStep in a while. I'll pull it out soon and give it a fresh listen.
I would do that before jumping into anything. If you still have the 2016 spin that too. The AP is closest to the 2016 and may go further in that direction by a hair.
@@ThePressingMatters I don't have the 2016. I actually returned it.
Oh right. If you didn't like the 2016, then I'd say stay where you are on this one. If its a top album for you, try it out or try and hear it somehow. You'll know immediately if its for you.
I absolutely agree with your analysis, I own the 2016 and it is fantastic, I have heard the one step only on DSD and it is very bass-heavy, distant from the reality of Chris Squire and the band. I have several AP 75th and am very happy with them; I'm waiting for my Fragile, thank you very much for your review
I'll be very curious about your thoughts on the new one. Its very similar to the 2016.
Would you come back to share your experience with it?
I am gonna get the Steven Wilson remix coming out soon. I am sure this will be the best. I like all his remixes. I have an original 1972 press and I love it. I listened to the Steven Wilson remix streaming and it sounds amazing. Steven’s work on jethro Tull was amazing
I have not heard the remix, but ill check it out tonight. Thanks!
GREAT TEST,THANK YOU,GEORGE ROMANIA
Greetings, George!
Nice to hear from a fan in Romania! Wow!
Glad you enjoyed the review!
Rhino is coming out with an exclusive version of Yes Fragile that was remixed by Steve Wilson this friday and is a nice looking green colored vinyl. I wonder how Steve Wilson remix of fragile compares to the 2016 version and 45. The cover art is also different. Maybe I’ll get it and compare it with my 2016. I want to get the 45 to hear how it sounds compared to the 2016 but then I suddenly found out another version will be releasing, ugh the dilemma.
The 2016 is the gold standard in my opinion. The 45 managed to keep the balance with slight improvements. A remix could be very interesting. Is this going to be a new remix. I'm sure Steven has done one already.
@@ThePressingMatters I think its a reissue from 2018 of his remix for the album but in green vinyl. I was surprised Rhino suddenly is doing a limited reissue of steven's remix.
Yeah its kinda too much Fragile!
@@ThePressingMatters It's not fragile... Haha. BTO.
@ Thats a whole different matter!
Hi Scott. Like yourself I have quite a few Fragile copies and also CD's. I do love the One-Step and since I don't have tone controls I appreciate a nice thump! And Heart of The Sunrise on the Mofi is just brilliant. I do not have the 2016 KG but I have to say that as a 33 RPM, the BG cut from the 2024 boxset is spectacular as well, and from your description of the 2016, I feel the same about the 2024. At times I even felt that it's better than the Mofi....until I play the Mofi that is! I'm on the fence about the AP Fragile since I have so many and can enjoy what I have .... I think 😆 Cheers
You have one of the finest copies, and for many people the Mofi will be more than enough. I think if you must try another Fragile, the 2016 is one you might want to hear. Its inexpensive and beautiful. You'll hear the difference in how the bass is more integrated and balanced. The new 45 is for those that don't have either of these two, or the curious fan of the album that is willing to shell out another $60.
I wish folks would stop running the old trope theme of Yes Mofi sounds bad because DSD. No it sounds bad for the reasons Scott mentioned. The bass is ridiculous.
Thanks for the review Scott! I think I am 45’d out. I feel a shift in the audiophile world. As if thousands of audiophiles suddenly realized “We want great sounding 33’s not PIA 45’s” ;)
Great comment, and I agree. The mastering is the determining factor, however it is transferred to us. The MOFI could have been the top of not for the heavy-handed bass extension.
I also agree with your thoughts on 45. I'm not on board with adding more and more in this format. I liked it when it was a once-in-a-while thing, something special for albums that could benefit from it. The space, the extra cost, and frequent flipping are pushing me away from the format.
Again, the mastering is what makes all the difference, and great work can be done on 33rpm.
I don't see 45 as the future honestly. I see it as a relic of the age of excess. I look at my Classic 45 sets, some four or five records for one album! I have a feeling a lot of these will be making their way back to the market.
I have an Australian pressing, UK maroon original, US Warner Brothers, Rhino 180g 33, & Ultradisc 45. So I am sort of a "completist" so it looks like I'll be investing in the Atlantic 75 45.
That is quite a collection! It sounds like you have the 2016 I spoke so highly of. If that Rhino is the Kevin Gray Cohearant cut, you have a great one already!
Thank you.
Hey Scott, I’m Tony from Chicago. I was wondering if you have any update about the Diana Krall album “The Look of Love”, do you have any knowledge about when Acoustic Sounds will have a replacement copy for the defective version. I can’t seem to get any thing from anyone at Acoustic Sounds. If you have any info, please let me know. Thanks!!!!
I’ll see if I can get any answers on it. Thanks for reminding me, Tony!
Thanks Scott, the last update that I received from them was a letter stating they would send a replacement disc for the defective copy. I really enjoy all of your videos regarding the classical Living Stereo reviews. Thanks to you I became interested in my Father’s classical library of vintage vinyl. Have a great day!!!!
That's the last I heard about it too. I know the presses are very busy with the latest releases. I'm sure it will be here one day!
So glad to hear you love the Living Stereo videos. There's another coming shortly that I think you'll find interesting!
Thanks, I’m looking forward to it. I hate that I wasn’t able to get a copy of Alexander Gibson’s Sibelius. I’m hoping that this one isn’t being discontinued. I was able to get a copy on hybrid sacd, but I still would like the vinyl version.
I know. That was a series of unfortunate circumstances. I know I have a little influence, but I had nothing to do with that one. Sibelius disappeared as my video premiered, maybe a day or two earlier. Same thing with Petroushka.
The Rachmaninoff piano Concerto and Prokofiev Alexander Nevsky lasted a little while after my review. So far the Chopin and Debussy are holding on! Just so you know, next one will be Spain, followed by The Four Seasons.
Thanks Scott - informative and useful video 👍 I've ordered the KG 2016 From a seller here in Denmark, though).
For me the whole concept of chopping the original work into 4 parts to get a limited sound-technical advantage is disqualifying.
It's technique over music - which I think is a sad trend...
So thanks for recommending KG 2016 (and I wouldn't buy any Atlantic 75 anyway).
Hi Claus!
You will love it! Its all you need at 33! Let me know how you like it!
@@ThePressingMatters Great - I'm sure I will!
I have bundled it in an order w. Miles Davis "Birth Of The Blue" (to save shipping) which won't be here until mid. February - But I'll leave a comment when I've listened.
Thanks! The more opinions, the better!
Today I did a comparison of 2-3 Fragile lps.I think the usa originals are great but also the mofi box was fantastic.
The Mofi box is great! I just felt I needed to point out that the result is system-dependent. It may sound perfect on the speaker that doesn't reach down that low. That's what I had when I first heard it, and it sounded great. If one had subwoofers on each side or a full-range tower it could sound bass-heavy. Still great in so many aspects.
Thanks for watching!
Have you heard the Bernie Grundman cut from the LP/CD box set from last year? Wondering how that compares to the Kevin Gray 33rpm?
Hi Micheal,
Thanks for your comment! No, I didn't hear his version of Fragile, unfortunately.
I did hear his box-set version of The Yes Album. It didn't come close to what they did on the Atlantic 75 of that title.
Hi Scott I am still waiting for Fragile to arrive in the UK , should be anytime now . Have not got Close to the edge and was wondering if it's worth ordering ? Would value your opinion 🎉😁
I have no copy of Close to the Edge. I'll be getting the 45 and some borrowed copies to do a review.
@ThePressingMatters it's not just me that has not got it 😁👍
I don't think there is a release date yet. That one will be interesting because of the split of a side long track! Hmm.
OUTSTANDING, what a great pressing of Fragile , will definitely be getting Close to the edge now 😁👍. Hope your listening to some new music for us to enjoy your reviews .
Hi Tony!
Thank you for coming back to give us your thoughts on Fragile!
How many times have I bought this album? At least five. Well guess what - it's Groundhog Day, so, time to buy it again! Listened to the KG 45 cut last night, and I agree - AP nailed it.. I'm thinking the buck stops here.
Hi Dave!
It does get a bit silly, our obsession with certain albums. I think this one deserves it, and now we have it with the royal treatment! I think I'm done on Fragile. I must have heard it 20 times over the last few months! I'll file it and return to it fresh next year!
Is it much better than the 2016 pressing? I don’t mind 45rpm. Wondering if it is worth the extra cost. Is it close between the two?
It's pretty close. Not the quantum leap that The Yes Album was, but smaller improvements. If you love 2016, I think you're good. It's quite similar. To do anything much different would have changed the character of the record for the worse.
What's the details with the one step controversy and Kevin Gray??
Kevin said in a podcast that the One Step process is the biggest sham foisted on the public.
I'll see if I can find a link to it. It was an audio podcast - very interesting!
Ooo, shots fired! I still don't really completely understand why Mobile Fidelity sticks with the DSD part especially when reviews like yours of this album keep coming out with one steps getting surpassed... People are liking the Off the Wall one step though 🤔
Here you go!
rss.com/podcasts/thecaropopcast/1838476/
As they say in Brazil, “shut up and take my money!” (sold!)
I have the Steve Hoffman version, the MFSL 45 and another one…I don’t mind 45s so will pick this up. I watched your previous video with the full shoot out. That was a lot of work!
I’m glad this version holds up to the others, the Yes album was great, and it will be interesting to see how Close to the Edge turns out.
Thank you for the video!
Thanks Scott. If I may elaborate a bit on your point about the MoFi 1-step being too bass heavy…. 1. It ruined the unique tonality of Chris Squire’s Rickenbecker bass guitar which was crisp and clean sounding. 2. It ruined the sonic intricacies of the interaction between the bass guitar and Bill Bruford’s fine and crisp drumming, especially in Long Distance/Fish. Hope you agree.
I absolutely agree. Yours is the perfect description of what is happening? There. I hear it as slowing down the whole presentation.
Very interesting, Fragile 1-step MoFi 45 is the only one by Krieg W that does not have a boomy base in my system. He managed to screw up all 4 albums with Dire Straits and other… I guess it is system based perhaps, or!? Played on TechDas, Kuzma 4P, Ortofon D, Sonus Faber Stradivari 35 Anni. As always top review!
I'm so surprised that you don't find his Fragile over the top in the bass dept! You might have a great copy of Fragile there!
I think a lot if it comes down to system and preferences for sure.
@@ThePressingMatters I'll play it again as I upgraded my phono amp since last time playing it.
As I mentioned, its still enjoyable, but the bass doesn't have the clarity and bounce of the best pressings. The extra bass slows thing down in my opinion.
So, you're sayin' yer NOT a Meghan Trainor fan (get it, "All About the Bass"!!). Thanks for another exhaustive review of this landmark Yes album. I have the recently released RHINO deluxe box set and really enjoy the hi-rez Blu-ray.
LOL, actually I do like bass and now my system can reproduce it. So when something is off, I notice it.
Thank you so much for watching and commenting on this Fragile video!
When you have senior ears, like me, pushing those higher frequencies are helpful. A booming bass is OK but when the music is overly compressed it sounds muddy.
I am one of those fools who seems to buy the "Fragile" album over and over again. I've got the 1972 U.S. OG, the 2016 KG, CD, DVD, BD, the 2019 45rpm Mofi, the 2023 KG re-issue on clear vinyl, the 2024 box with mastering by BG and am waiting for the latest AP 45 rpm new version. I made the mistake of ordering 2 of the Mofi 'one-step' from 2 different sources. It took me 3 tries to make 1 good boxed set from Amazon. Amazon doesn't just replace the defective record in a multi-disc box, they have to exchange the entire box set. Luckily, Amazon isn't in a hurry to receive the return, so it gives me the opportunity to pick out the best and then send back the rest. I believe that Music Direct just sent me replacement copies. They don't want the defectives back,
Even though I'm getting up there in age, my high-frequency hearing is sensitive. Too much and I run! So u guess it's intact or it's just not a sound signature I like. I was discussing this recently with a friend if the brighter mastering of older rock records is to please those who might have lost a little on top of the hearing range.
Sounds like you love Fragile! I'd be very interested in how you react to it! Please come back and let us know!
@@ThePressingMatters Sure. Normally, as we age, we start losing the ability to hear the higher frequencies. People like me, with tinnitus, compounds the problems. Putting more emphasis on the highs helps us to hear them. Besides no ticks or pops, the high frequency sound reproduction is what sold me on CD's. When my hearing was fairly normal, I could hear the tape hiss on many recordings. The CD amplified this and it used to drive me up the wall. I fully understand that excessive high frequencies drive some people up the wall. Thankfully, that is why we have tone controls, equalizers and filters.
Now, the extraneous sounds I pick up on is the sound caused by the friction of the stylus running through the grooves. Listening through headphones , I can usually identify where the records were pressed. An Optimal Media pressing is easiest for me to identify. With the Blue Note Tone Poet series, they are usually pressed at Optimal, RTI or QRP. The Optimal pressings stick out to me like a sore thumb.
Very interesting observations. I too notice groove noise as in indication of who pressed a record and I agree with you on your examples.
Still have the original when it came out, so I'm good.
Original US? I've heard they are really good. Unfortunately I didn't have one for my earlier video.
@@ThePressingMatters
No I misspoke. I think it was a Columbia Terre Haute pressing I bought when I was in the record club in the early '70s.
Oh ok, well if it sounds good, and it certainly might, you are probably all set. This will appeal to rabid Yes fans, who might not have a clean good sounding copy. It’s a very nice edition.
@@ThePressingMatters
I've been more into classical and jazz these days, although I do get some rock. I've got seventeen albums coming from Acoustic Sounds today, lol.
@chrislj2890 Did you get some classical?
I have an OG U.S. pressing of Yes' Fragile. It sounds pretty good. At this time I do not consider MoFi to be a serious audiophile company. Digitally produced music has its place, but it is not the state of the art, and it is not what I consider to be audiophile in the league of all analogue recordings. I wouldn't be surprised if the entire MoFi Fragile album was produced digitally in something like Hi-Res. I'd be willing to bet my paycheck on it. Yes isn't a band I like enough to seek out another copy of Fragile. I'll stick with the OG; shelf space wins. Have you heard the OG U.S. pressing of Fragile and how does it compare with the other recordings you mentioned? 🤔
Thanks for the great comment, my friend! An original US pressing is said to be a good one. I have not heard one in years and didn't find one for the first shootout.
I'm not against using a DSD capture as a starting point, but my main beef with Mofi is the mastering choices. Some are terribly bright and “detailed” and Fragile goes heavy in the opposite way, which I guess is less offensive to me. I can enjoy their Fragile.
I get that shelf space is at a premium. I'm starting to deal with this again, and will have to give away a lot of records I don't need or have space for. I really would probably been ok with the 2016 33rpm as my sole copy of Fragile and eventually it will be the one to stay. I feel my viewers want to hear about these big reissues, so I end up buying them. Not unhappy about it, but common sense has to prevail at some point!
@@ThePressingMatters Thanks for your take on the sound quality of the Fragile OG U.S. pressing. I'm happy with it. It didn't cost me much and the media is in NM condition. Since I'm not really a big fan of prog rock, unless it more fully embraces blues, I don't really seek out albums in that genre beyond certain high spots like Fragile.
@@ThePressingMatters The proper use of DSD is when all analogue isn't possible and the company is transparent about it. Chad & Company are good about this, because Chad is a genuine audiophile who cares about more than just profit. Unfortunately MoFi has a checkered past on transparency, so I've lost faith in them. Long before the DSD scandal broke, I stopped buying their albums circa 2014. The music never sounded that great to me, and I encountered a lot of pressing defects. I wasn't surprised to hear that they were using DSD instead of all analogue when the story broke. I felt vindicated in not buying their albums anymore.
@@audiophileman7047 the AT/GP- Atlantic/ George Piros- in the deadwax,US OG, is incredible. I have 2 in near mint condition. I have never considered needing any other copy. Beware of the early US without gp in the deadwax. They are dead and lifeless.
This is the one I was trying to find in great condition to include in the review. I've heard great things about it, and your comment confirms it.
Thanks for the presentation and analysis! I’m not as enamored with this most recent AP 45 reissue and it’s not remotely close to the wonderful work on the AP45 ‘Yes Album’ reissue from a few months ago. If you have the 2016 33rpm just stick with that - it’s more alive and natural than this most recent reissue. I’m not sure what’s with Kevin Gray, the quality of his output seems to be all over the place these days.
Maybe too much work on his plate! The man doesn't seem to stop. The 2016 remains my favorite, for the sound and format of the 33. I didn't find the AP to be less than, but it could be system dependant.
Anyway I appreciate your comments and thank you for watching!
@ thanks! I’m breaking in a Hana umami red cartridge so maybe I’ll revisit the 45rpm version when that process is further along.
This is one thing I've learned - as you change components, cartridges, rooms and so forth, a pressing that you once thought was blah, suddenly sounds great and vice versa. That's why I have too many copies of these records. My opinion could change with a new cartridge. I'll be putting this to the test again, as four new cartridges are coming in for review!
@@ThePressingMatters funny,with fresh ears this morning I listened to the AP 45 and I definitely enjoyed it more - lots of detail without being too analytical and the vocal harmonies shine as does Bruford’s remarkable drumming. I’d say it’s a buy for sure but the 33 is still great.
To be honest, during my first few plays, I had a similar reaction. I've learned to wait and give it a try on another day. Sometimes it's the system, your receptivity, your initial expectations. It was on a subsequent night, that the new version clicked., maybe my expectations had been too high, given the work The Yes Album, but the beauty of the new mastering came through as I listened more to it. I know how Hanas can sound as they break in and they change rapidly in the first 25 hours. Perhaps you crossed a threshold in the process of break-in.
At any rate, I'm glad you are enjoying the new version now!
Thanks so much.
I'm glad you enjoyed the video!
Yes are my all time favorite band. I have over 30 versions of Fragile. I have the same exact opinion you have of the UK plum label. I never understood the love for it. I find it rough and overly aggressive not to mention just plain noisy.
Yes, the plum labels were the biggest disappointment after years of seeing them.
Are you thinking you need another Fragile? I'm guessing probably not!!
@@ThePressingMatters On the contrary, I always need everything by Yes.
Well I will really respect your opinion on the new one, since you have so many copies to make a clear judgement. Please come back and let us know what you think!
Play it once, then file it.
Hi Tara, what is your preference for this one?
@@ThePressingMatters Hi Scott, I have Kevin Gray's 33 version of this LP which sounds great. I don't plan on buying another, oh so slightly better sounding copy of it. I think what I was trying to say in my comment is that, can I really justify buying it again, just to play it once or maybe twice and then putting it away. I purchased the rhino, Kevin Gray Doors box set, played it twice, then put in on the shelf for looks. How many times can they reissue the same music over and over again. Why can't they reissue more sought after music like Can, Budgie, etc. How many times can you listen to Aja before you decide to get rid of your HI-FI system and move on to a new hobby.
I completely understand your point and yes, I think you can surmise that I too think very highly of Kevin’s 2016. If you have that, you have a great copy and not a lot of reason to go forward with another, very similar Fragile.
I think The Yes Album 45 was a very different story, a big jump and transformation.
I too am getting tired of the same old titles. I'd love some reissues of the bands you mention or even Gentle Giant, Renaissance. They have every poor reissues thus far.