UK 5th Pressing (1971)
PCS 7027
Discogs | TheBeatlesCollection
Matrix:
Side A: YEX 637-1
Side B: YEX 638-2
Unbanded
This early double-box EMI version was released in the early 70s (1971-73) and has “The Gramophone Company” rim text (though there are -1/-1 represses with this label, as well). On my copy, Side A is the same cut as the 1967 version, and sounds in the A/B comparison absolutely the same (minus the wear and tear of the 1st pressing). Side B, however, is a different, -2 cut, and there are quite notable differences. First of all: it is slower than -1 (and thus, slightly longer). Second, it’s louder by good 1.5db. Third, it has considerably more clarity and separation. Fourth, the bass is a little bit more present. Fifth, the trebles are, too.
“Within You Without You” has a more distinctive vocal presence of George who was a little more buried in the 1967 cut, and is more open to the trebles. “When I’m Sixty-Four” offers a great instrument and vocal separation, and the details are more refined (the very fine cymbals in “will you still need me, will you still feed me”), while the bass is a bit punchier.
On the other hand, vocals are less present on “Lovely Rita”, especially the choir gets buried somewhat. Though on “Good Morning, Good Morning” the vocal presence is stronger (though more sibilant, as well), the overall separation is more detailed, everything is more dynamic. And the surprise is “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band (Reprise)”. Compared to the -1 cut, it’s more power, more drive, more rock, more punch! Splendid!
However, “A Day in the Life” is a little more complicated. This song was just sheer perfection on the -1 cut. On -2 cut, Parts 1 and 3 with John’s vocals bring out more fine details, every instrument is clearer, the voice has good presence. On the other hand, Paul’s vocals in Part 2 feel slightly muffled. And the vocalizing during the transition to the third part is more buried and has less spine-chilling power compared to the -1 cut.
Note: the final gibberish happens as is intended, in the locked groove.
Overall: The -2 cut on Side B brings out more details in places, and is a great listen, especially the “Sgt. Pepper” reprise is a pleasant surprise. However, on some occasions the vocals have a lesser presence, especially when “A Day in the Life” is concerned.