Released in September 1972, Close to the Edge is widely regarded as the definitive progressive rock album. Comprising just three sprawling tracks, the album pushed the boundaries of rock composition, musicianship, and studio technology.
: Alongside the original master, Wilson provided a completely new stereo remix (typically at 24/96 resolution) designed to provide better separation and clarity while remaining faithful to the 1972 spirit.
Option 1: The Audiophile's Perspective (Detailed & Enthusiastic)
High-Resolution Analysis: Yes’s Close to the Edge (2013, FLAC 24-bit/192kHz)
While the Blu-ray contains these mixes, they are often presented at 24-bit / 96kHz
[Original 1972 Multi-Tracks] ➔ [Digital Transfer at 24-bit/192kHz] ➔ [Steven Wilson Level/EQ Balancing] ➔ [Final 2013 Stereo FLAC Master]
In certain sections (like "I Get Up, I Get Down"), the extreme separation can make the vocal harmonies feel less tightly integrated than they were on the original LP. 📦 Technical & Content Highlights High-Res or Old School Digital - Positive Feedback
: A sampling rate of 192kHz captures audio frequencies far beyond human hearing. While we cannot hear these ultrasonic frequencies directly, they preserve the phase relationships and timing accuracy of the waveforms. This creates a more realistic acoustic space.
What the 2013 24/192 FLAC release offers
The album consists of only three tracks, each serving as a masterclass in progressive rock composition. 1. Close To The Edge (18:43)
: A dedicated Digital-to-Analog Converter that natively decodes 24-bit/192kHz audio is essential to translate the digital bits into pure analog sound.