The Truth Behind CD Reissues: Master Tapes to Digital
CD reissues of classic vinyls have long been a topic of intrigue for music enthusiasts. The exact process and sources used in the reissue process can vary widely, often leaving questions in the minds of consumers. This article delves into the practices and sources utilized in creating these reissues, from the original master tapes to modern digital encoding techniques.
Master Tapes Vinyl LPs: The Foundation of Reissues
The quality and authenticity of a CD reissue largely depend on the source material used. In ideal scenarios, publisher reissues are made from the original master tapes. These tapes, often in the form of mixdown 2-track tapes, capture the raw, studio-quality recording. But when master tapes are unavailable or damaged, the next best option is a vinyl LP of the intended music. This method, unfortunately, is not as precise and can be resource-intensive.
The process of digitizing a vinyl LP to recreate the CD is sometimes referred to as a “needle drop,” a term that reflects its popularity in the 1950s and 1960s for live recordings. However, publishers prefer not to disclose if a reissue is a needle drop, as it can unfairly impact their reputation. Major record labels can usually be trusted to use original master tapes, while smaller reissue publishers might use the next best sources available.
The Process of Digitization
When dealing with pre-tape era material or archives, the process can be even more complex. Wax recordings at 78 rpm (revolutions per minute) often don’t have a tape master to reference. In these cases, the material might be digitized directly from the original recordings. Multiple records or wax templates might be used in piecing together the best performance. This method was common in the early days of recording, where each batch of pressings could deteriorate the quality over time. Therefore, multiple recordings of the same pieces are sometimes necessary, such as in early releases that required large press runs.
Remastering for the Digital Age
As technology advanced, the process of remastering evolved. There are several eras where remastering efforts were significant:
Redone to Digital: In the early days of digital technology, some master tapes were remastered to digital, involving a full remixing process from multi-track recordings. Full Remix for Digital: Additional efforts included full remixes of previously recorded tracks to better suit digital formats. Spatial Digital Surround: More recent efforts have focused on remastering classic tracks into modern spatial digital surround formats.The choice of source material ultimately depends on the record company’s resources and approach. In many cases, they prioritize making recordings with minimal effort, often opting for the available sources even if they are not the highest quality. This practice can lead to variations in sound quality, sometimes resulting from using EQ’d vinyl or production copies for the remastering process.
Conclusion
Understanding the origins of CD reissues can greatly enhance one's appreciation of the music. While major labels tend to use original master tapes, smaller reissue publishers may use vinyl LPs as a last resort. This practice, while practical, can sometimes lead to noticeable differences in sound quality. For music enthusiasts, it is wise to research the source of the reissue to ensure the best possible listening experience.
Understanding these processes can help consumers make informed decisions and appreciate the true value of the music they enjoy.