Mission: Impossible-Blu Ray vs. LaserDisc

Aaron Garman · 05-22-2007, 11:54 AM

Yes, I know, kinda hard to compare these two formats, but I think the sound mix needs to be discussed. Sure, the picture on the Blu Ray blows the LaserDisc away, but the sound is "tame" by comparison. Just like the DVD before it, I'm dissapointed here. Anyone else still spinning those big discs compare these? This was one of the definitive home theatre sound experiences I remember from LaserDisc, and the Blu Ray just seems too weak. Overall clarity is good, but the low end just isn't there like that old AC-3 track, which heck, was at 364kbps. Who says bitrate is everything!?

AJG

Rob Young · 05-22-2007, 01:20 PM

Maybe it was cooked on the laserdisc and this is the more accurate presentation. Accuracy trumps everything...IMO that is.

Geoff_D · 05-22-2007, 03:18 PM

I've got the HD-DVD version, but I totally agree with you Aaron. I'm not saying that the AC3 LD was the more "correct" version, but damn it was stupidly enjoyable.

The thing is, it never seemed OTT to me, even less so nowadays because it actually sounds like the majority of the high bitrate/lossless audio tracks that I've heard so far, with clear dialogue, superb imaging and a low end that seems to drop and drop and drop.

I've still got the LD and spun it to compare against the HD-DVD, and I couldn't believe the difference. Ah well. Ya can't always get what ya want.

Gary Seven · 05-22-2007, 03:25 PM

I have found this to be true on most LD vs DVD sound comparisons I have done. The main reason why I have retained my collection.

The MI LD is indeed intense sonic wise.

Shane Martin · 05-22-2007, 05:28 PM

It's a bold assumption to assume that either the LD mix or the HD DVD mix is accurate.

I think the question will be left unanswered really until we get a lossless audio track.

If the lossless sounds the same as the LD mix which many say is the theatrical mix, then that would certainly answer our question. DD+ Isn't exactly lossless

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Tim Glover · 05-23-2007, 01:16 AM

Oh man....memories. I've said it many times and it's worth repeating. I don't think I've ever heard a better soundstage and depth, and just sheer sonic joy than when I owned that AC-3 LD for Mission Impossible.

Sure, LDs of The Phantom Menace & Saving Private Ryan's AC-3 were mighty forceful but MI had that top end sparkle that was never fatiguing.

ppltd · 05-23-2007, 06:47 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tim Glover

Oh man....memories. I've said it many times and it's worth repeating. I don't think I've ever heard a better soundstage and depth, and just sheer sonic joy than when I owned that AC-3 LD for Mission Impossible.

Sure, LDs of The Phantom Menace & Saving Private Ryan's AC-3 were mighty forceful but MI had that top end sparkle that was never fatiguing.

Not sure about the quality differences, but the LD disk is bigger than the HD versions. Bigger is better, isn't it?

Ed St. Clair · 05-23-2007, 08:28 PM

WoW
Your REALLY into this HT thing! ;-)

Glad to see or "hear" this for that matter.
Was there a D-VHS, as well?
Can't let HD Disc off the hook, just cause it says its better.

Are both inputs calibrated?
Have you calibrated for sound pressure differences?

Thanks.

Aaron Garman · 05-24-2007, 12:15 AM

My system is modest, but calibrated nicely for all inputs. It's a night and day difference between the two formats. The BR sounds good, and is very clear. It felt obvious the BR was compressed less, however the low end impact just wasn't there. This is a Rydstrom mix and it didn't FEEL like it on BR. Anyone have the HD-DVD to compare?

AJG