Jazz at the Pawnshop AudioNautes 1-STEP -- Auditory Ambrosia
5 Stars
Posted
Thursday, June 6, 2024
by
Stephen Norvell
Four discs are immaculate, not a single tic or pop on the eight sides. Labels are perfectly centered. Vinyl is absolutely quiet. One hears the distinct separation of the instruments, as well as the palpable excitement of the audience. Sonics provide an appreciable improvement over the recent 2XHD 33 1/3 edition, in which the horns and drums are more forward, while the piano and vibes recede during the group passages. AudioNautes 45rpm edition balances the five instruments, more effectively presenting the music as an ensemble effort. -- Downside is the unsturdy exterior design, which is unlikely to withstand the test of time in remaining free of dings and dents. In contrast to the exemplary housing of the AP UHQRs and Impex 1-Steps, the dedication to the exterior housing simply does not reflect the same level of devotion to the meticulous crafting of the vinyl. Nevertheless, it's all about the sound. Only 989 pressings. You'll be thrilled to have one!