Whether you're just starting your vinyl collection or have been spinning for years, the right turntable makes all the difference. We've selected the best options for every budget.
Discover our selection of turntables
4.4
Average of 18 reviews
13
2
2
0
1
Whether a review is positive, negative, or neutral, we always publish it. However, we screen every review to ensure it is authentic and free of profanity. These checks happen automatically, though a human occasionally steps in. We never pay for reviews.
This album is genuinely a piece of history and absolutely incredible, even though the original recording isn't the best. But this reissue is fantastic—it goes back to the original master tapes and gives us a brand new, top-quality mastering and pressing. Don't go in expecting audiophile perfection. But the raw, historic feel of this record makes it a must-have for any collection. Plus, the upgraded jacket is fantastic and really top-notch.
Can anyone tell me if this record can be played with a mono needle? The back of the cover says 'TECHNICAL DATA Monaural recording made on an Ampex -350. Frequency response of equipment ± 2db 15cps-23kc.'
Spotting Quality Record Pressings (QRP) on the label means you're about to experience something special. This Howlin' Wolf vinyl is famously low-fi and gritty, but this QRP pressing breathes new life into it.
This album is absolutely amazing, yet the sound quality has never been particularly impressive. I own the 2018 version, which is said to be AAA, but I must admit that the Chess 75 release is significantly better in my view. Many of the tracks that were originally recorded to disc have a similar sound, but the difference becomes more apparent with improved recording quality. For instance, "Smokestack Lightning" is outstanding on this pressing. It's incredibly clear, with a great low-end. I also appreciate how Luthans worked to soften some of the harsher edges on a few tracks. It's not a drastic change, but it does make for a noticeably better listening experience compared to the 2018 version. And the biggest upgrade is the pressing quality. The 2018 version I got is sealed and extremely loud, but the Chess 75 is perfectly quiet. I'm still on the hunt for a Chess Masters pressing from the 80s though, as that series has been quite good in my experience.
The audio quality is absolutely flawless, no disturbances at all. The artwork on the cover is incredibly stunning, with gorgeous images.
See exactly which store has this album in stock and where you can get the best deal. Compare prices below and order your LP directly.
| Date | Lowest price | Average price |
|---|---|---|
| Nov 30, 2025 | $36.99 | €39.48 |
| Dec 29, 2025 | $36.99 | €39.48 |
| Jan 21, 2026 | $38.98 | €38.98 |