So, I was pleasantly surprised this last year when I got a Japanese Target Pressing CD copy of Around the World in a Day, and in my good headphones it sounded noticably improved.

I have been despairing of my CD copy of Purple Rain, cause I think it doesn't sound as good as the vinyl, and it has some serious flaws; like the Kick drum at the very beginning of The Beautiful Ones is cut-off at the beginning! IT's totally whacked. I recently got a German target pressing, thankfully it does not have the same flaw on "The Beautiful ones", but I don't think it sounds any better as a CD...

So, I'm wondering... is there a Japanese Target pressing that might sound better? I've heard, also, and seen pictures of, a gold Master CD pressing of Purple Rain, how does that one sound? Anyone heard it or have access to it?

And while we're on the subject... How was that Rhino supposedly remastered Purple Rain that came out on Vinyl a while back?

Anyone know?

I have the 180 gram Rhino release, but I don't think it was "remastered".

I still listen to my original pressing of the album, maybe it's nostalga, but it's the one I like best.

The re-release is just fine, but it wasn't a huge improvement to my ears.

Mars23 said:

What Mars said.

I think the re-release sounds better (for me, anyway) simply by virtue of the fact that there isn't 26 years worth of crap in the grooves.