I just picked up a batch of SACD's produced by FIM (First Impression Music.) These are INCREDIBLE sounding discs. The FIM catalog is a bit esoteric, but if you want to hear the best that SACD has to offer, look no further than FIM.
However, I must admit that I am dissapointed with their multi-channel titles. Three that I picked up (Antiphone Blues, Jazz At The Pawnshop, and Autumn In Seattle) are not true multi-channel recordings. The surround sound is derived from the stereo masters with "skilful utilization of new technology to create a 'Multi-channel' version of this recording".
Um, okay, but I wish this info was included with the advertising literature instead of being "buried" in the SACD booklet. Oh well, I guess Silverline and DVD-A don't have a monopoly on "fake" surround anymore.
With that said, I must admit that FIM has done a tasteful job in their execution of the surround-sound synthesis on these discs. They go for a strictly ambient effect that is quite pleasing and spacious. Still, I would prefer a true multi-channel mix and feel that these titles would have been better left in their native domain.
However, I must admit that I am dissapointed with their multi-channel titles. Three that I picked up (Antiphone Blues, Jazz At The Pawnshop, and Autumn In Seattle) are not true multi-channel recordings. The surround sound is derived from the stereo masters with "skilful utilization of new technology to create a 'Multi-channel' version of this recording".
Um, okay, but I wish this info was included with the advertising literature instead of being "buried" in the SACD booklet. Oh well, I guess Silverline and DVD-A don't have a monopoly on "fake" surround anymore.
With that said, I must admit that FIM has done a tasteful job in their execution of the surround-sound synthesis on these discs. They go for a strictly ambient effect that is quite pleasing and spacious. Still, I would prefer a true multi-channel mix and feel that these titles would have been better left in their native domain.