October 2024
Perfect sound on SACD: Isabelle Faust delights with new recordings
On July 22, 2024, two single‑layer SACDs by the renowned violinist Isabelle Faust were released, produced with the MUTEC REF10 SE120 under the supervision of Ikuo Tsunoda. The Japanese hi‑fi magazine Phileweb documented the DSD mastering process at the King Sekiguchidai Studios.
Isabelle Faust, a globally successful violinist, regularly releases albums on the French label Harmonia Mundi, known for its outstanding recording quality. To make these recordings in DSD format accessible to the Japanese audience, Ikuo Tsunoda, a leading expert in high‑end audio, initiated the release of a single‑layer series specifically developed for Japan. The series includes the violin work Solo
as well as Schumann's Piano Concerto. Sound engineer Hiroyuki Tsuji conducted the DSD mastering at King Sekiguchidai Studio.
MUTEC REF10 SE120 sets the clock
A key element of the mastering process was the 10 MHz clock generator MUTEC REF10 SE120, which is distinguished by its excellent phase noise characteristics and robustness in everyday studio use. Tsunoda explains, With the REF10 SE120, we were able to expand the dynamic range and improve the reproducibility of quiet passages as well as the overall atmosphere
.
The 10 MHz reference clock generator from MUTEC controlled various recording devices from Antelope, dCS, and Merging Technologies to ensure their optimal performance. For optimal connections, MUTEC's new digital cables, PSC 75 and PSC 50 were used. The result is impressive, as Phileweb describes:
The perfect coordination of the musicians is striking, and the interplay between the violin, viola, cello, and piano is vibrant and dynamic. Powerful passages are delivered effortlessly and with great energy. The precise rendering of the instruments' textures, which harmoniously blend together, is breathtaking.
In Faust's solo work, the rich overtones of the violin are particularly captivating to the ear. Pay particular attention to the beauty of the subtle sound gradients
, recommends Tsunoda. Engineer Tsuji adds: Thanks to the MUTEC clock, the depth of the stage is even better emphasised
.
A complete success for everyone involved and a further demonstration of the outstanding possibilities that can be achieved with MUTEC products.
