Well, I don't know about this. High definition vinyl?!?! https://pitchfork.com/news/high-definition-vinyl-is-happening-possibly-as-early-as-next-year/
I wouldn’t go as far as calling it a “new format” which automtically implies new reproduction equipment is needed. An improved method of mastering conventional LPs is a more accurate description.
There's a lot of things I love about this but one of my concerns is the "longer playing times." I've felt that the old format was great, usually one or two fillers songs at the most. Once CDs came out at 74 minutes it seemed like close to a half hour of filler and as we all know most musicians these days can barely put out 2-3 goods songs at a time let alone 10+......
I think the difference is that in current processing it is not necessary to convert from analogue tape, you can cut a master using a standard system. The new laser system will by definition require transfer to digital, it will be a change in technology and so analogue purists will likely prefer the current system. The fact that most records are now made from digital masters from the studio isn’t the point because the old tapes will have to be converted for the new laser pressing system. This is for the mass market, not the analogue enthusiast.
What would concern me about longer playing times would be sound quality. K-Tel used to do compilation albums with at least 8 tracks on each side. They did this by cutting at a lower level and putting the tracks closer together which reduced quality. 12” singles were the opposite. Reduce the playing time of a 12” to get better sound quality, and les chance of the stylus jumping when pumping out a tune in a club.
Would this new discovery able to eliminate the generic crack and pop issue in vinyl. I assume that the dust particles may not be able to fill the hairline groves that cut from the fine and high accuracy laser.
It sounds interesting but the fact that the masters have to be digitized to do all the process puts me a step back. Hmm, I don't know if I want that...q
