Bob Marley & The Wailers - Rastaman Vibration (2 LP)
- LP
- 2 piece(s)
- 1976
- 11 tracks
- 39 min
- reggae
Rastaman VibrationCheapest atnewburycomics.com
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4.4
Average of 49 reviews
38
7
1
3
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Snagged this at the Goodwill on 25th, just for a couple bucks. Like new. That was a great day.
This is an outstanding all-around production. The Stoughton jacket is superb, with extra effort put into capturing the texture and letterpress-style imaging of Bob and the letters, making them stand out. My original USA copy has the faux burlap texture but lacks the raised letters and image. Very impressive. I did an A/B comparison on my setup with the original (Terre Haute/Sterling). My setup isn't something an audiophile would take seriously; it's more of a DJ setup. I have two SL-1800 MKIIs with new old stock Stanton 680 cartridges (I really love these cartridges), a Numark mixer, and a 70s Pioneer SX-780 receiver. Even though it's not audiophile-grade, this setup allowed me to do side-by-side instant comparisons. I even had my partner switch them blindfolded, and I could tell the difference between the two records every time after several comparisons. My conclusion is that they are very, very similar. I think Ryan K. Smith intended to make them close. The EQ on them is a perfect match to my ears. The differences, though, are most noticeable in the midrange. While the levels are the same, the UHQR offers a slightly brighter and snappier presentation. There's a tiny bit more sparkle in the highs on the UHQR. The obvious difference between the two is the surface noise; the UHQR is completely silent, whereas the original has considerable surface noise. I'd rate mine as VG+ (some might say NM), and I can't imagine it's far from what it sounded like when it was new (it's a 40-something-year-old LP). Is that worth the price? Maybe if it matters to you, but once the music starts playing, I can't detect surface noise on the original. My conclusion is that if you own a clean original and you're not an audiophile but still care, the UHQR isn't essential. It's only slightly better than the original but not a different take. I bought the UHQR based on the thought, what if Ryan K. Smith gives us an entirely different EQ that makes me prefer it, and I regret not getting it at $125? How will I know since it doesn't seem like a digital version of his remaster will be offered? I don't regret buying it, but I don't think I'm better off (not considering the resale price). P.S. - I'm a huuuuge fan of the Hon. Robert Nesta Marley. I'm almost 50 and have been listening to his music since I was a teen. If given the chance, would I buy all the UHQR versions of his Island catalog if they came out? Absolutely. I think it would be hard to argue that in terms of overall presentation and respect for his legacy, this is the pinnacle of quality. You can't argue with the physical quality of the vinyl and the effort taken to ensure it's the best. When you want the best, why not? I certainly hope this is one of many more to come. Final conclusion. My go-to for casual play will probably remain the original. I'll keep the UHQR for archival purposes up high on the shelf and pull it out for special occasions or deep listening sessions, which I do fairly often with Bob's music. However, don't underestimate 70s Sterling mastering. Those original copies are wonderful to have and more than suffice.
This one outshines the old UK box from '82 that I'd been comparing everything to for ages. The sound is sharp and clear, with a powerful bass.
Amazing songs in this album, 'Rat Race' is worth the listen alone...
Absolutely breathtaking. The moment you slip this on, you'll instantly grasp the exceptional quality of their work. I didn't give a second thought to the new box design or the minor sleeve warp. I've tucked the records into the sleeve, hoping that might eventually fix the sleeve's issue. I managed to peel off the shrink wrap, take out the records, and pop the shrink back on for safekeeping. Make no mistake, the pressing is top-notch.
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| Date | Lowest price | Average price |
|---|---|---|
| Oct 31, 2025 | $32.98 | €72.99 |
| Nov 30, 2025 | $35.99 | €137.32 |
| Dec 29, 2025 | $32.98 | €72.99 |
| Jan 30, 2026 | $32.98 | €72.99 |
| Feb 28, 2026 | $35.99 | €92.99 |
| Mar 7, 2026 | $35.99 | €92.99 |