DJ Shadow – Endtroducing.....

I didn't like this pressing until I "upgraded" to the 2024 half speed master - after comparing the two, I can say without a doubt that this 2011 release is superior in almost every way.

Thank god I got this on sale because I can't imagine paying full price for this. While I appreciate the clean sound and a tighter bass response, there is a horrible distortion present throughout most of the album in the highs, most prevalent on Side B and C. I should have payed closer attention to the reviews highlighting the sibilance in this version and the 2021 version.

In comparison to my 2011 version, this 2024/2021 version has much more fidelity and range. The sound stage is wider and there is more separation between layers of the mix. Unfortunately, this extended range leaves the music sounding sterile and lifeless. It's actually a bit shocking how much better the 2011 version is - it doesn't have the sound stage like this, but the older press sounds cohesive, lively, and well balanced. Nothing on the 2011 version distorts. The bass feels present and the highs are perfectly mixed. This half speed master cancels that out entirely, leaving the listener with a rather uninspiring experience.

If I could take the sound stage of the half speed master and combine it with the cohesiveness and clean sound of the 2011 pressing, you'd have the perfect release, imo.

I'm growing weary of "half speed remasters" at this point - I don't think I've ever gotten a good one. Perhaps I need better equipment, like a MC cartridge to unlock the potential. I have heard that these Abbey Road half speed masters require better gear to appreciate due to the hot mastering, but considering that's outside the price range of someone like me, it makes these pressings glorified eye candy.

At least the pressing itself is fine - no visual or audible defects. It's flat and center. The mastering/cut just isn't refined for the average listener. The jacket is fine, a bit thin. The printed inner sleeves will scratch your records and leave a lot of dust on them.

Consider other options, is my opinion.

Fluance RT80
AT-VM95ML
Schiit Mani 2
Edifier R1700BT

Edit: I do like parts of this pressing - it sounds good when it doesn't distort. That's the only positive attribute of this release imo.

Everyone on here saying that this is the copy to get...yeah, they're right. This pressing is absolutely fantastic in every way. The track reordering works so well here, there is zero surface noise, the bass is so incredibly present, the volume is wonderful. It's an experience, pick up a copy.

Nitpicks: the inner sleeves are just unlined paper, so I moved my discs into rice paper sleeves. The center bores on both of my records were a little tight, so getting on/off spindle is a touch annoying. Other than that, zero complaints here.

I like this album on vinyl, because any crackles you experience due to dust or pressing issues, just add to the experience. Considering this album was made by sampling beat up records, this pressing probably sounds as good as possible. The obi-strip is cool and the inner sleeves design is slick. My copy was clean and no warped discs. Can’t go wrong with this one

If only all Trip-Hop album would sound as good as this. The big Metallica sample on The Number Song still takes me by surprise.

I cant lie ...All opinions are correct....this ishhh sound and look flawlessssss....

Amazing remastering and perfectly clean sound with deep bass and perfect balance. This album is just classic, highly recommended!

veeeery clean sound, so happy with the purchase, great album.

Certainly an LP that needs to be heard on wax...make the wise investment!

Recently purchased and very happy with the pressing quality, would recommend.