Do you prefer the classic album The Who Sell Out in mono or stereo? It's a question that has been debated by music experts for years. While some argue that the British press in mono is the only version that deserves a ride on your record player, others believe that the stereo copy has the clearest and coolest sound. To help you decide, let's take a look at what the experts have to say. According to professional listeners with hyper-tuned ears, The Who Sell Out should ONLY be heard in mono.
This is because the stereo version can be too bright and harsh, making it difficult to listen to for extended periods of time. However, some people prefer the stereo version because it has more power and a panoramic view of the soundstage. I have compared a mono original to a stereo original and found that I preferred the stereo copy. Despite being a much loved copy with many minor scratches and fine marks, I thought it had more power than the mono version.
The Who Sell Out was recorded in the UK and released in the United Kingdom just before Christmas 1967. It never made the top ten in the UK, but barely made the top 50 in the United States. It was also released as a double LP version of the Hendrix family. The classic reissue is undoubtedly the most dynamic and detailed of all, and it has the most developed and well-defined lower part. However, it also has a remarkably shiny, hard and pinched upper part that can be exhausting to listen to.
The mono mix is superior to the stereo mix because it includes unique parts of Townshend's guitar with pedal steel in “Our Love” and an effect inserted into “Mary Anne With the Shaky Hand” that was not present in the original stereo mix. It also has better front-to-back layers and overall organization than the stereo mix. However, some people may find that when they listen to a mono mix with a stereo cartridge, it can be too narrow and lack detail. To ensure this doesn't happen, some companies released special mono editions of albums for radio use only.
So which version should you choose? Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference. If you're looking for a richer balance with more detail, then go for the stereo version. If you want something more authentic and unique, then opt for the mono mix. Whichever version you choose, make sure you get an original copy in good condition for a reasonable price.
