Bill Evans Trio* – Waltz For Debby

Only 98% rating ? who didn’t like this ? ?

Such beautiful music deserves the best treatment possible! I was disappointed at first for the noises but after cleaning it throughly I am very satisfied with the uhqr version of this album. My system is based on a Rega P8, Apheta 3, x-altra phono preamp, Lab Amp Camp pre and Amp with Fostex 206 ESR full range speakers, and I love this!!

I have multiple copies of this gem of an album - they all sound good - vinyl, CD, SACD, HiRes etc. The only comparison that I made was between the very recent 33rpm OJC Kevin Gray cut and this. The clarity vinyl was a bit noisy - despite an ultrasonic clean, in comparison with the black OJC. Both records are audiophile sounding, but I must confess that I prefer the UHQR - there is more air around the sound, greater dynamic range, slightly more realistic cymbals. When I went back and forth between the two, I felt that a blanket had been placed over the OJC versus the UHQR. This may be system dependent because KG has managed to extract extraordinary detail from some really old tapes.
I think that, unless this is one of your all time favorite albums, if you have the OJC (2023 version) then the difference between the two is not really worth the difference in price (certainly in the Eurozone). For me - no brainer - this is the best version I've heard and will treasure it.
By the by - I absolutely hate these ludicrously large empty boxes that are taking up so much shelf space - the smaller form factor that AP are introducing with the Doors' LA Woman is preferable. Better still - dump the boxes and sell the records for $50 less.

Lots of reviews out there for this one, I'm sure another voice is not needed, but if the price doesn't put fear in your heart and you love this album, it is the one to get and well worth it - for comparison I have the recent OJC (also excellent) and an AP test pressing from the 90s, this is better than both, but they all have their charms, but for the ultimate glimpse into this recording, this is THE ONE
For reference, I listened to this through a Dual 1219 with Denon DL-110 cartridge,Yamaha A-S701 integrated amp, and a pair of Klipsch KG5.2 speakers

Has anyone done a detailed listening between this uhqr version and the Analogue Production box... is it worth buying the UHQR if you already have the Analogue Production box?

So my question is, is this a different mastering job than Kevin Gray just did for the OGC Craft version last year? Or just a different pressing?

Hands down, this is the best I have ever heard this album. Better than the old OJC version, better than the AP SACD, better than the HDtracks versions, better than the Doug Sax AP LP, better than the recent KPG 33 1/3 OJC Craft reissue - it is just THAT good - and considerably so! It is stunningly realistic, has incredible depth, and the most nuanced detail like no other. Aside from being a must-have in every jazz aficionado's collection, this is the ultimate version to show off to your friends and family on your system. As Mr. Kassem would say, "buy now, or cry later." Get this!

Very pleased with this one. Unlike Sunday at the Village Vanguard, Waltz For Debby doesn't have a lot of audiophile versions. The best one I've owned prior to this release is the one included in the AP Riverside box set, which is excellent. This one is very close to that one so if you already own that one you probably don't need this, but one area that is far superior in this release is the Tip-On jacket of the highest quality as well as the release notes book that is very well done. The Riverside box used a very simple and flimsy jacket that was a disappointment. Compared to the recently issued OJC release by Craft, this one is noticeably better in width and depth of sound stage, clarity of instruments and overall dynamics.

My comments over on The Bill Evans Trio Featuring Scott LaFaro - Sunday At The Village Vanguard also apply to this release.