From the first listen — Alice Coltrane’s Journey in Satchidananda — it’s clear why the HK 730 is worshiped. Let’s talk about mono blocks. In the world of […]
Capturing the ISC (( ROOM RECORDING ))
Notice anything in the recordings in our audio player? Maybe Alice Coltrane’s World Galaxy hums differently than on vinyl or streaming platforms?
Perhaps it sounds a little more live, as if you’re actually hearing the music inside of a space. That’s because these recordings were made at In Sheep’s Clothing using a pair of old ribbon microphones through a UAD Apollo AD converter to capture the sense of hearing records in that room. And that room was built with the intention of providing an optimal environment for serious listening. Since we opened, it has rewired a lot of brains.
Soundsystem:
Klipsch Klipschorn AK6 Loudspeakers
Audio Note Jinro Shochu Tube Amplifier
Condesa Carmen Rotary Mixer
Garrard 301 Turntables
Thomas Schick Tonearms, Headshells & Cartridges
Recording Engineer: Yohei Shikano
The Klipshorns needed to be situated in corners, so we built a separate set of corners in the room. Placing the speakers there provides a jumbo “sweet spot,” one that’s enhanced by the room’s shape. Textured wood paneling covers most walls. Cork floors help prevent bounce.
We’ve never claimed that this approach is better or best. We do believe strongly, though, that focused listening at ample volume in that room is a singular experience.
Our intention with the (( ROOM RECORDINGS )) is to explore a new approach. Is it an analog recording? By definition, no. You’re obviously hearing a digital replication. Still, while links to other streaming platforms will be provided for albums we are featuring, the (( ROOM RECORDINGS )) offer listeners a rich, atmospheric tone — hopefully a fresh perspective shaped by the space, the ribbon microphones and the sound system elements. We hope that these new recordings provide alternative listening experiences, or at least pose questions on how atmospheric elements shape the way we appreciate sound.
Note: We are not collecting any income from these recordings and encourage our community to seek these albums out and purchase them for at-home listening pleasure.
