Post #535429 by DejaVoodoo on Thu, Jun 10, 2010 4:15 PM

Ok then, so "The Versatile Henry Mancini" was reissued in both mono and stereo with the illustration of Henry on the cover. Good to know. With that out of the way, which version do YOU prefer? To my ears, the mono mix sounds more present and better balanced. It's not a loud recording but the essence/mood of the songs/arrangements shines through a little stronger on the mono mix.

To my ears, again, the stereo version is a bit of a let down. A wider soundstage and quirky interplay between the left and right channels could have made "The Versatile Henry Mancini" even more atmospheric and exotic. Sadly, it just sounds quiet and uninteresting, with previously prominent instruments buried in the mix and, at times, practically inaudible! The late night intimacy of the album is lost in the stereo version and so I prefer the mono mix.

It may not be Exotica by any classic definition of the word but it sure is dreamy and relaxing!:)