Original master recordings are the first-generation copies of a song or album that are made in the studio. They are created by mixing and mastering the individual tracks of a song together to create a final, polished product. Original master recordings are often considered to be the best-sounding versions of a song, as they are the closest to the artist’s original vision.
However, there are a number of factors that can affect the sound quality of an original master recording, such as the quality of the recording equipment, the skill of the engineer, and the condition of the master tapes. Additionally, many original master recordings are decades old, and the tapes may have degraded over time.
As a result, it is not always the case that original master recordings are better than newer remasters. Remasters are created by taking the original master tapes and using modern technology to improve the sound quality. This can involve removing noise, improving the frequency response, and adjusting the dynamics of the recording.
Whether an original master recording or a remaster is better ultimately comes down to personal preference. Some people prefer the original sound of a recording, even if it is imperfect. Others prefer the improved sound quality of a remaster.
Here is a more detailed comparison of original master recordings and remasters:
Original master recordings
- Pros:
- Closest to the artist’s original vision
- May have a more authentic and natural sound
- Cons:
- Sound quality can vary depending on the recording equipment and engineer
- Older master tapes may have degraded over time
Remasters
- Pros:
- Can improve the sound quality of an original master recording by removing noise, improving the frequency response, and adjusting the dynamics
- Can make older recordings sound more modern and appealing to a wider audience
- Cons:
- May alter the artist’s original vision for the recording
- May sound less authentic and natural than an original master recording
Related references
- What is the difference between an original master recording and a remaster? by the Audio Engineering Society
- Original master recording vs. remaster: Which one should you buy? by SoundGuys
- Are original master recordings always better? by Stereophile
- The great master recording debate by The Guardian
Whether original master recordings are better than remasters is a matter of personal preference. Some people prefer the original sound of a recording, even if it is imperfect. Others prefer the improved sound quality of a remaster.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which version of a song to listen to is to try both and see which one you prefer.
