On Fri, Feb 12, 2010 at 9:44 PM, Monty Montgomery <xiphmont@gmail.com> wrote:
> I've noticed that I do indeed have some aversion to the cd-version of
> records I otherwise liked on another format (i.e. vinyl or cassette.)
>
> So why are there cds that I think actually do sound good?
>
> How has this process changed?

The most common reason is that because vinyl records don't have a flat
response, vinyl has a preempahsis applied to the HF.  Sometimes the
preemphasis was applied during cutting, sometimes it was applied to
the tape master before cutting.  When early CDs were pressed, they
were often pressed from the vinyl masters and if the preemphasis was
on the master, boom, harsh gritty super-over-bright CD.

Monty
 
Your description is right on.

I wonder why no one would've seen something like this coming though?

Was it just a bunch of suits saying, "Yeah, let's sell some cds!" while the original mastering guy prepared to cringe come "Digital Release Date"? (1 day later?)