How does vinyl compare to HD digital?

[j3brow]

Originally Posted by Soundmig

For me it comes down to the mastering process. Since the LP, CD and HiRez file are rarely mastered by the same person there can be differences that make any format sound better or worse. Generally the version (for the same album) that was mastered the best is what sounds the best regardless of what the media type is. One exception, and there may be others, is the Sheffield Lab D2D LP's. Since those are out of print now and there are no "copies" other than the "safety" analog tapes from the sessions, the Vinyl versions of those (if in good shape) tend to sound quite a bit better than the digitizations of the analog tape "safety" recordings.

Bingo. This is why digital sourced (CD or hi-res) vinyl can sound better than its CD or even hi-res download (heresy!!) IF the download is compressed to death and the vinyl mastering used non-compressed files.

I have many digitally sourced LPs that sound identical or worse than the CD and many that sound divine. It’s a crapshoot.

It pays to research for opinions on SQ on other websites before laying down 30 bucks for a vinyl record. I learned my lesson years ago after blowing lots of cash on ok at best pressings.

Bottom line, vinyl and HiRes can both be great or lousy. Gotta do your homework.