A Deep Dive into the Best Classic Album Surround Sound Mixes: Dark Side vs. Tangerine Dream's Phaedra
The quest for the gold standard in classic album surround sound mixes has long captivated audiophiles. While opinions often differ, certain masterpieces stand out in the annals of music history. As we explore the classic rock and quadraphonic movements, two such albums emerge as frontrunners: Pink Floyd's 'The Dark Side of the Moon' and Tangerine Dream's 'Phaedra.'
Dark Side of the Moon: A Timeless Classic
Pink Floyd's 'The Dark Side of the Moon' (1973) is an album that needs little introduction. Its compelling tracks, haunting lyrics, and iconic sound have cemented its place in music history. The album has undergone numerous remasters and enhancements over the years, but its surround sound mixes, particularly the 2015 remaster with Steven Wilson's 5.1 audio, stand out among audiophiles.
Experience: Last year, I had the pleasure of acquiring the Steven Wilson Blu-ray Audio 5.1 remix of Tangerine Dream’s 'Phaedra.' It was a truly mind-blowing experience to lie on my couch in the home theater and immerse myself in the music. If 'The Dark Side of the Moon' is an auditory journey, then the 5.1 remix of 'Phaedra' is a journey through the fourth dimension. The audio was incredibly detailed and provided a sense of envelopment that transcended the typical surround sound experience.
Phaedra: A Pioneer of Quadrophonic Mixing
Considering the inclusion of classic rock quad recordings, Tangerine Dream's 'Phaedra' (1974) is a natural choice. Although quadraphonic recording technology was short-lived in the early 1970s, the album remains one of the most influential works in this genre. In terms of surround sound mixes, 'Phaedra' stands out for its innovative and detailed soundstage.
Experience: Audiophiles often prefer albums with a stage across the front and only ambience from the sides and rears providing envelopment. With 'Phaedra,' Tangerine Dream succeeded in creating a complex, multi-dimensional sound that mimicked the spatial audio technology of the day. While the quadraphonic era may have been limited, the principles Tangerine Dream explored in 'Phaedra' laid the groundwork for modern surround sound mixes.
Subjectivity and Personal Preference
Ultimately, the debate over which is the best album surround sound mix is highly subjective. What one audiophile considers the absolute best may differ from another's opinion. However, when examining both Pink Floyd's 'The Dark Side of the Moon' and Tangerine Dream's 'Phaedra,' a clear argument can be made for each album's excellence in its respective genre.
Experience: The Experience of listening to 'Phaedra' is profoundly different from that of 'The Dark Side of the Moon.' 'Phaedra' is a daring exploration of sound design and spatial audio, which, despite being from the early days of quadrophonic technology, creates a sense of space and depth that is both groundbreaking and immersive. Conversely, 'The Dark Side of the Moon' is a masterclass in composition and mix, with its subtle layering of sounds creating a cohesive and impactful listening experience.
Conclusion: A Comparative Analysis
Both 'Dark Side of the Moon' and 'Phaedra' have left an indelible mark on the world of audio and music. 'The Dark Side of the Moon' has become a staple in the world of audiophile culture, while 'Phaedra' remains a faithful exploration of spatial sound in an era of innovation.
Experience: As an audiophile, the thrill of exploring the 5.1 remix of 'Phaedra' is unparalleled. It offers a new layer of detail and spatial richness that elevates the listening experience. However, 'The Dark Side of the Moon' still holds a special place in my heart for its timeless composition and masterful mix. While 'Phaedra' may offer a more novel surround sound experience, 'The Dark Side of the Moon' is a masterpiece that speaks to the human condition.
Final Thoughts: Both albums have stood the test of time and continue to be celebrated by music and audiophile enthusiasts. Whether you lean towards the emotive power of 'The Dark Side of the Moon' or the spatial innovation of 'Phaedra,' there is something to be said for the enduring quality of these classic albums.