The Ben Webster Quintet – Soulville

Probably my best sounding album. It's just amazing! Ben, Oscar and Co. are in my house! Definitely my go-to album to show off my recently acquired Decware (actually an old prototype) phono stage. This album also stunned everyone, including Steve Deckert, at Decware listening night. Just so good!

The sound is incredible! It's just perfect. Webster's sax has immense presence, without projection, all elegance and velvety timbres. Highly recommended SACD. In of formal sound quality, it seems even better than the very good ´Ben Webster meets Oscar Peterson’ (AP SACD)

Great sounding Vinyl release. Very good soud-stage, quiet vinyl and warm sounding recording. A nice bonus to have the album on CD as well. The Doxy (budget) label did a good job here.

I'm not sure if I have a better sounding record than this one right now. Absolutely fantastic, the recording itself, the mastering and the pressing.

Just WOW! Highly recommended pressing! One of my favorite records!

One of the best sounding records I own, such a thick and velvety sound. If you find a copy in good condition it’s a no brainer. Phenomenal.

Finally got around to comparing my AS33 and SC copies of Soulville. No one else bothered which I find strange for such a good one.
Lets keep this brief as I didnt dig too deep myself. The main differences I hear across most of the album is what sounds like Ryan going for a flatter approach while Kevin did more tinkering.
Assuming the AS33 is more of the raw tape, on the Speakers Corner it feels like the bass and treble both got a bit of a boost in comparison, kind of like the old MFSL sound. Only here I think it really works for the presentation as it also seems to allow for hearing more into the room. Perhaps Kevin also added a bit of reverb, helping expand the soundstage further which I really like, making Ryans cut sound drier in comparison.
Some hate that but personally I really enjoy it here and have to say this type of album mood gains from the wetter presentation.

Equipment Used:
Technics SL-1210GR Turntable with ATVM540ML Cartridge
iFi Zen Phono RIAA
Yamaha A-S701Amplifier
Revel F35 Tower Speakers

My first copy came with a massive, audible scratch on Side B. Replacement copy was flawless. Excellent mastering - this is a record to get lost in when you spin it.

Fluance RT80
AT-VM95ML
Schiit Mani 2
Edifier R1700BT

This pressing has Amazing sound quality and incredible musicianship. A top favorite.

Beautiful music, great sound. Unfortunately, my copy was noisy after cleaning, so I am returning and requesting a replacement copy. Hope I can get a quiet copy because this is just a lovely record. I should also mention that the artwork and photos are stunning.

Update: I received a replacement copy and it is much quieter. What gorgeous sounds Ben Webster made!