"What is XRCD?" XRCD is CD software which enables to reproduce high quality sound in any CD player. This CD is not formatted specifically but normally. Then, why does it have high quality? Because it was produced by completely controlled procedure from mastering to producing. Sound quality is strictly controlled by skilled craftsman of sound. First the direct cutting was 20bit but now it is upgraded to 24 bit. The following measures are taken to keep the best sound quality: 1. The source of sound should be analogue and original master tape. 2. If there is phase difference , it must be adjusted correctly. 3. Power supply used in all machinery should be independent to prevent interference between power supplies. 4. Terminal and direction of cables should be same. 5. Eliminate needless power. 6. Conduct comparison test to each cable and use the best ones. 7. Conduct quality test effected by length to all cables including inner ones and make them appropriate length. 8. Conduct quality test for material, painting to disks and confirm the aluminum disk can transmit the data precisely. XRCD use only aluminum disk(Most of the disk used in production line is Harmonix). CD is produced after above procedure. Then, listen to it and compare it with original master tape to check the sound quality. Complete control is conducted from mastering to producing. This CD is normal one but it has high quality sound. Reproduction ratio of normal CD is 65% to 85% of original tape but that of XRCD is 98%. XRCD is more expensive than normal CD by 600 to 800 JPY but I will take XRCD instead of SACD because of the quality. I think XRCD is most suitable for Jazz. I recommend you to try XRCD. Most of audiophile do not care the purity of CD. If phase difference, enhancement or distortion are tuned in low quality CD, the sound will be not perfect. XRCD based on high quality sound will tell you the defect of the system. Therefore, I recommend XRCD. "Saxophone Colossus" is introduced in "CD Picks of the week". The analogue-like sound of XRCD is excellent besides of 24 bit. I recommend it to young people as an introduction to Jazz. The first "St.Thomas" is one of the most famous number of Sonny Rollins. The fourth "Moritat", the fifith "Blue Seven" are rhythmical swing music with continuation of cheerful session. Max Roach performs excellent drums in modern jazz . I respect Sonny Rollins who is still developing new technique and sound of sax. Rollins was 22, Tommy Flanagan(p) was 26, Doug Watkins(b) was 22. and Max Toach was 32 years old when this album was recorded in 50s. Miles Davis was still 30 years old, who was top musician in those days. Jazz was the music in springtime for young people. |