If you enjoy audiophile sampler albums, this is a very good album to add to your collection. It is released by in-akustik as a 2x Hybrid SACD edition, published in Europe in 2023, and is connected with the STEREO master-tape concept.
This album is especially recommended if you want to test the quality of your hi-fi system. The music is taken from analogue master-tape sources and transferred to a high-quality digital format, which makes it interesting for listeners who care about detail, dynamics, stereo imaging, natural voices, and instrument placement.
The track selection is varied, with jazz, vocal and acoustic-oriented material. Listed tracks include Ella Fitzgerald – “Sunshine Of Your Love,” Madeline Bell – “Seasons Of Love,” Scott Hamilton / Paolo Birro – “The Shadow Of Your Smile,” Elise Trouw – “Illuminate,” Buddy Tate – “Stardust,” and Margriet Sjoerdsma – “Wade In The Water.”
Why you should listen to it:
This is not just a normal compilation. It is more like a sound demonstration album: ideal for hearing how your speakers, headphones, DAC, amplifier or SACD player handle real acoustic space, voices and dynamics. It should sound open, clean and natural, with strong stereo depth.
Best for:
Audiophile listening, speaker testing, relaxed evening listening, SACD collectors, and anyone who likes well-recorded jazz/vocal/acoustic music.
My verdict:
Highly recommended for audiophiles. Not necessarily because every track is a famous hit, but because the album is made for sound quality, atmosphere and system demonstration. A strong choice if you like labels such as in-akustik, Stockfisch, Chesky, Telarc or 2xHD.
