Philip’s Musings: Ultradisc One-Step – Santana Abraxas

Mobile Fidelity One-Step reissue of Santana’s Abraxas

I have played a Test Pressing of this monumental album first at AXPONA and more recently at the Newport Show. I already own this seminal album on CD, SACD (both SONY & MFSL), the original UK pressing on vinyl, bought the German reissue about 15 to 20 years ago, as well as the more recent Mobile Fidelity reissue, (all of these @ 33 1/3 RPM). Consider me a believer.  The new Mobile Fidelity One-Step reissue will be at 45 RPM and delivers a level of clarity and palpability that I didn’t hear up until now, even on the SACDs.

When I played this at AXPONA and Newport and let Side One play through to the end, many times the audience clapped in appreciation. MFSL is on to a winner with this new ONE-STEP process. I can’t wait to get my own copy (or two). Certainly this will be the most appreciated gift for the music lover in any household. (Hint, hint). OK, it is expensive at $100, but it comes in a hard box and is sure to become a collectors item, just as the MFSL UHQR titles are (which are on eBay from $300 – $1,500 Beatles Sgt. Peppers, sealed).  We will be sure to play this in Denver next weekend at RMAF.