Quote Originally Posted by Woochifer
Kind of Blue sounds great, and includes a multichannel track that adds some ambience to the sound (not the best multichannel mix, but probably more a function of the limited multitracking in the original recording). It was one of the first SACD releases and remains one of the better ones out there. Sketches of Spain is another good one for sound quality if you're into the Gil Evans collaborations.

As much as I love In a Silent Way, the SACD doesn't add much, since the original recording is not that good to begin with. The multichannel mix is also not very good. This is a case where I much prefer the LP version which smooths over some of the harshness that both the CD and SACD versions create. Your money's better spent on the Complete In A Silent Way Sessions boxed set, which has a treasure trove of alternate takes and unedited tracks.

For years, the gold standard for audiophile quality blues recordings has been Muddy Waters' Folk Singer album. It's a hauntingly intimate recording that puts Waters' sound up front and center. I own the 96/24 disc from Classic Records, which is a high res disc playable on any DVD player. The sound quality on that version is top notch. A SACD version is also available, and my understanding is that it's every bit the equal of the Classic Records version with perhaps a warmer sound.

Thanks Woochifer...That makes three "must haves" to pick up this week