A century ago, the advent of electrical recording transformed the music industry. This innovation replaced the outdated acoustic recording method, which had been unchanged since Edison’s invention in 1877. By greatly expanding the frequency range captured on disc, electrical recording delivered more realistic sound, eliminating the need to rescore orchestral music for acoustic reproduction. Full symphony orchestras and massive choruses could now be recorded, and sessions moved beyond cramped studios into concert halls and even outdoor spaces, ushering in a new era of possibilities.
To honour this pivotal moment, Pristine presents a collection of landmark recordings from 1925, the year that revolutionized record listening. This release includes celebrated discs mentioned in works like Roland Gelatt’s The Fabulous Phonograph and previously overlooked recordings. It also highlights the steps leading up to this breakthrough, such as early experiments in electrical recording. Additionally, the set features the first complete release of Calvin Coolidge’s Presidential Inauguration ceremony, sourced from rare test pressings, showcasing the breadth of this technological leap.
We also celebrate the birthday of violinist Mischa Elman with a 10% discount on all his recordings at Pristine.