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Finally got my copy of the Getz/Gilberto AS release. I already had the AP 45 version but I was excited for this one as I prefer single LPs, less flipping required during playback.
1st impressions:
- The packaging of the AS series release is pretty good, I would say on par with Tone Poet releases, and not quite as good as 33rpm packaging from MM or AP. The disc itself is flat and super clean.
- My understanding is this version uses the same George Marino master as the AP45 so I expected them to sound very similar if not identical. After doing a playthrough comparison, I'd say they are very close. Maybe its just me but the midrange is slightly more present on the AS, and the AP45 sounds more detailed (more highs). The AS is excellent overall. I prefer either of these over the Mofi version that I sold a few months ago, that one sounds "bloated". That said, I've always preferred the OG mono version as I don't enjoy the hard panning of Astrud Gilberto's vocals in Stereo.
- If you're looking for a keeper version, definitely get this one! If you can spare the extra coin, the AP45 has much better packaging.