Tommy (Deluxe Edition) [Super Audio Hybrid CD] by Who (The) (CD, Oct-2003, 2 Discs, Geffen Records USA)

SACDs are really the only way to get that analog feeling in 5.1 multi-channel stereo. On "Tommy" Roger Daltry went back in the studio divided the audio from the "Tommy" master tapes into five channels, which gives the music room to breathe. The vocalist gets his own speaker, the guitars, the drums, etc. As a result, there are subtle sounds layered in this 5.1 channel recording that you'd never hear on a two channel stereo recording. Not all analog recordings retooled for SACD come out well, but this one is really pretty good.

SACD's are hard to come by in the local record store because until just recently SACD players were pricey. ebay is great way to supplement your high-quality audio recording collection, provided that the price, once shipping is rolled into the bill, is comparable with ordering directly from the recording company or buying off the shelf. I've seen this "Tommy" SACD on the shelf for as much as $39. My ebay price was much lower.

We ordered new speakers for our main stereo in our living room and my husband is a major Who fan! So, he had to have this and is very pleased with the purchase. Not only does he listen to it on the stereo, he also listens to it cranked on his Harley! We received this in the mail shortly after ordering it. The holidays are coming so we would recommend getting it for your favorite Who fan! The seller was great as well!

I don't want to speculate on worthiness of the rock opera itself, as I sure it has its devotees and just as many people who could not care less. The recording, however, is exceptional, one of the best 5.1 SACDs that I've heard. That said, 32bit/192khz stereo "Autumn in New York" by Louis and Ella makes this one bite the dust :)