The Zombies – Odessey And Oracle

I've been able to compare both this version with the stamped matrices and the *assumingly* later pressing with the etched "2A" and "2B".

I don't think there's that much of a difference in sound but I do think this pressing is better in every category, not only is the vinyl noticeably quieter, it's also cut louder without losing any dynamics. In fact I think it sounds more dynamic than the etched pressing even when volume matched. There's more low-end, punch, and air around the instruments/vocals. I do hope to find a true "1st" Big Beat pressing, but I guess those are rare as I've had a hard time finding one, the one with the Mono version of This Will Be Our Year. Speaking of that track, both pressings discussed here have the same stereo mix without horns, as well as the whisper intro on Changes.

If you own the etched version and are happy with it I'd recommend you try and find this pressing, but make sure to try and buy it used and ask the seller what the dead wax is cause this specific pressing may be out of print.

This is an analogue cut from the original tape and it definitely sounds a like a step up from the more recent stereo reissues. Dead quiet vinyl and the music is very bright and airy! Brief Candle especially shining on the chorus and Time of the Season claps sound more crisp than I've ever heard. This pressing is definitely worth it if you can find it cheap!

I have the 'Stamped' matrix copy and I can confirm also that it sounds fantastic, a really good pressing full of clarity and great Stereo separation.

BUYING
Willing to buy the actual 1997 pressing with ETCHED matrix: "WIKD 181-A / B" "MA"
Ready to pay 100 EUR for NM version ! :)

lol looking at the reviews here--I'm glad I'm not alone. I bought this new and legit wrote a strongly-worded email to Big Beat about how TWBOY was *not* the version they claimed it was. Surprise: they didn't respond.

This will be our year is definitely not mono and has no horns. My copy has stamped runouts. Wtf is the deal with these big beat reissues?!

Beautifully mastered & pressed LP, with the stereo-mix having terrific clarity, detail & good bass.

I bought my copy brand new from an Amazon seller in mid-2015. The matrix is etched with no MA initials, and there are absolutely no horns on This Will Be Our Year, and TWBOY is definitely NOT mono despite what the back cover says

I just bought a used version with etched matrix: "WIKD 181-A / B" "MA"
The sleeve is a little worn and the seller was selling a bunch of 90's albums, so it's very likely from that period.
I am very pleased with the sound quality - It sounds all analogue to me and has horns all over 'This Will Be Our Year'

it seems the idea that the horns indicate the true copy may not be true as the original big beat may have used an original "real" stereo master and the art on the back with the misinformation was carried over from the cd cover. After reading many threads all signs seem to indicate that the stamped matrix are original. Is there proof to the contrary or anyone who picked one of these up in 1997 that can chime in?