Wish You Were Here is the ninth studio album by the British band Pink Floyd, released in 1975. It was recorded at Abbey Road Studios in early 1975, shortly after the massive success of The Dark Side of the Moon.
The album delves into themes of absence, alienation, and disillusionment, particularly in the context of the music industry and human relationships. It also pays tribute to Syd Barrett, the band’s founding member, whose mental health had deteriorated, most notably through the instrumental suite Shine On You Crazy Diamond.
Among its most iconic tracks are Welcome to the Machine, a critique of the music industry, Have a Cigar, featuring vocals by Roy Harper, and the title track, which has become a rock classic.
The cover, designed by the Hipgnosis studio, depicts two men shaking hands, one of them engulfed in flames—a striking visual metaphor for absence and loss. The image was created from photographs taken at Warner Bros. Studios in California.
The album enjoyed major commercial success, topping charts in both the UK and the US, and has become one of Pink Floyd’s most significant works. Wish You Were Here is widely regarded as a masterpiece of progressive rock, deeply emotional and influential, cementing the band’s place in music history.
For this review, you will find 22 versions tested:
- Ed 1: BOX Bluray 4.0 Mix – 2011
- Ed 2: BOX Bluray 5.1 Mix – 2011
- Ed 3: Box Bluray Stereo Hi-res – 2011
- Ed 4: CD – 2017
- Ed 5: CD – 1984
- Ed 6: CD From BOX – 2011
- Ed 7: CD from SACD – 2011
- Ed 8: CD SBM – 1994
- Ed 9: Remastered vinyl – 2016
- Ed 10: SACD 2.0 – 2011
- Ed 11: SACD 5.1 – 2011
- Ed 12: Vinyl – 1975
- Ed 13: Tidal Dolby Atmos – 2025
- Ed 14: Tidal MAX – 2016
- Ed 15: Tidal MAX 50th – 2025
- Ed 16: CD 50th – 2025
- Ed 17: Bluray 4.0 Mix – 2025
- Ed 18: Bluray 5.1 Mix – 2025
- Ed 19: Bluray Dolby Atmos – 2025
- Ed 20: Bluray Stereo Hi-res – 2025
- Ed 21: Vinyl 50th – 2025
- Ed 22: Yellow Flame vinyl 50th – 2025
Below you will find the description of the different editions, as well as the measurements of each edition in the following chapters.
The album is composed of 5 tracks:
- Shine On You Crazy Diamond (Parts 1-5)
- Welcome To The Machine
- Have A Cigar
- Wish You Were Here
- Shine On You Crazy Diamond (Parts 6-9)
Summary, scoring and Samples
Ed 1: BOX Bluray 4.0 Mix – 2011
Presentation
This is the 4.0 (24 /96) track from the Blu-ray included in the Immersion Box Set. Released in 2011, this box set contains the album along with its bonus material on CD(The Original Album remastered in 2011, Unreleased Audio Tracks with Live At Wembley 1974), DVD (Audio et video), and Blu-ray formats.
| Label | EMI |
| Reference | Immersion Box Set |
| State | Europe |
| Type | Bluray PCM 4.0 24 bits 96 kHz |
| Master | PCM 4.0 |
| Mastering/Pressing | Mixed in 1975 |
| Original recording | Analogue |
| State | UK |
| Year original | 1975 |
| Year production | 2011 |
Spatialization:
The spatialization of BOX Bluray 4.0 Mix – 2011 version varies from track to track, with values between 3.7 and 4.9.
Spatialization : ●●●●o (4.2)
Below the spatialization for all tracks. Click on the images to zoom in.
Waveform and Spectrum: DR12
The waveform of the BOX Bluray 4.0 Mix – 2011 version shows a very good dynamic range confirmed with DR12.
The spectrogram shows that the signal up to 48 kHz due to the 96 kHz sampling frequency.
The graph below represents the spectrum of the BOX Bluray 4.0 Mix – 2011.
The maximum frequency of the spectrum is 48 kHz, which results from the 96 kHz sampling rate used.
Synthesis and listening
This 4.0 version features the same mix as the one on the 2025 Blu-ray.
Rating:
- Dynamic: ●●●oo (3.5)
- Bandwidth: ●●●●● (5)
- Spatialization: ●●●●o (4.2)
- Restitution: ●●●●o (4.5)
Sample : Wish You Were Here 4.0 24 bits 96 kHz:
The sample is in 7.1 wav format, if you can not play the sample in your navigator, you can save it, right button menu and “Save Audio As…” and play it with an external player.
Ed 2: BOX Bluray 5.1 Mix – 2011
Presentation
This is the 5.1 (24 /96) track from the Blu-ray included in the Immersion Box Set. Released in 2011, this box set contains the album along with its bonus material on CD(The Original Album remastered in 2011, Unreleased Audio Tracks with Live At Wembley 1974), DVD (Audio et video), and Blu-ray formats.
| Label | EMI |
| Reference | Immersion Box Set |
| State | Europe |
| Type | Bluray PCM 5.1 24 bits 96 kHz |
| Master | PCM 5.1 |
| Mastering/Pressing | Mixed in 2009 |
| Original recording | Analogue |
| State | UK |
| Year original | 1975 |
| Year production | 2011 |
Spatialization:
The spatialization of BOX Bluray 5.1 Mix – 2011 version varies from track to track, with values between 3.4 and 4.5.
Spatialization : ●●●●o (3.8)
Below the spatialization for all tracks. Click on the images to zoom in.
Waveform and Spectrum: DR13
The waveform of the BOX Bluray 5.1 Mix – 2011 shows a high range confirmed with DR13.
The spectrogram shows that the signal up to 48 kHz due to the 96 kHz sampling frequency.
The graph below represents the spectrum of the BOX Bluray 5.1 Mix – 2011.
The maximum frequency of the spectrum is 48 kHz, which results from the 96 kHz sampling rate used.
Synthesis and listening
This 5.1 version features the same mix as the one on the 2025 Blu-ray.
Rating:
- Dynamic: ●●●●o (4)
- Bandwidth: ●●●●● (5)
- Spatialization: ●●●●o (3.8)
- Restitution: ●●●●o (4)
Sample : Wish You Were Here 5.1 24 bits 96 kHz:
The sample is in 5.1 wav format, if you can not play the sample in your navigator, you can save it, right button menu and “Save Audio As…” and play it with an external player.
Ed 3: Box Bluray Stereo Hi-res – 2011
Presentation
This is the stereo (24 /96) track from the Blu-ray included in the Immersion Box Set. Released in 2011, this box set contains the album along with its bonus material on CD(The Original Album remastered in 2011, Unreleased Audio Tracks with Live At Wembley 1974), DVD (Audio et video), and Blu-ray formats.
| Label | EMI |
| Reference | Immersion Box Set |
| State | Europe |
| Type | Bluray PCM stereo 24 bits 96 kHz |
| Master | PCM stere |
| Mastering/Pressing | Remastered in 2011 |
| Original recording | Analogue |
| State | UK |
| Year original | 1975 |
| Year production | 2011 |
Waveform and Spectrum: DR12
The waveform of the Box Bluray Stereo Hi-res – 2011 version shows a very good dynamic range confirmed with DR12.
The spectrogram shows that the signal up to 48 kHz due to the 96 kHz sampling frequency.
The graph below compares the spectrum of the Box Bluray Stereo Hi-res – 2011 (white curve) with the spectrum of the CD – 1984 (blue curve).The spectral curves overlap almost perfectly between 100 Hz and 7 kHz. Beyond 7 kHz (yellow zone), the Blu-ray level is higher, reaching a difference of up to 10 dB at 20 kHz. Below 100 Hz, the Blu-ray also shows a higher level, particularly under 60 Hz, with differences of up to +4 dB.
Synthesis and listening
This 2011 Blu-ray edition offers a high-resolution presentation with a clearer tonal balance than the 1984 CD. The extreme low end is less emphasized, while the high frequencies provide greater openness and detail, bringing this version closer to the original tonal balance than the 1984 release.
Rating:
- Dynamic: ●●●oo (3.5)
- Bandwidth: ●●●●● (5)
- Restitution: ●●●●o (4)
Sample : Wish You Were Here 24 bits 96 kHz:
Ed 4: CD – 2017
Presentation
This is the japanese CD remastered in 2017 (ref : SICP-5410)
| Label | Sony Records |
| Reference | SICP-5410 |
| State | Japan |
| Type | CD |
| Master | PCM 16 bits 44.1 kHz |
| Mastering/Pressing | Remastered in 2017 |
| Original recording | Analogue |
| State | UK |
| Year original | 1975 |
| Year production | 2017 |
Waveform and Spectrum: DR11
The waveform of the CD – 2017 version shows a good dynamic range confirmed with DR11.
The spectrogram shows that the signal rises to 22 kHz with no signal above this frequency due to the 44.1 kHz sampling frequency.
The graph below compares the spectrum of the CD – 2017 (white curve) with the spectrum of the CD – 1984 (blue curve).The spectral curves almost perfectly overlap between 100 Hz and 5 kHz. However, above 5 kHz (yellow area), the 2017 CD shows a higher level, with a difference reaching up to 5 dB at 20 kHz. Conversely, below 100 Hz, the Blu-ray exhibits a higher level, particularly under 60 Hz, with a difference of up to +2 dB.
Synthesis and listening
This 2017 version provides a clearer tonal balance than the 1984 edition, delivering a more open sound.
Rating:
- Dynamic: ●●●oo (3.5)
- Bandwidth: ●●●●o (4)
- Restitution: ●●●●o (4)
Sample : Wish You Were Here 16 bits 44.1 kHz:
Ed 5: CD – 1984
Presentation
This is the original CD released in 1984 (US, ref : CK 33453)
| Label | CBS |
| Reference | CK 33453 |
| State | US |
| Type | CD |
| Master | PCM 16 bits 44.1 kHz |
| Mastering/Pressing | Remastered in 2011 |
| Original recording | Analogue |
| State | UK |
| Year original | 1975 |
| Year production | 1984 |
Waveform and Spectrum: DR12
The waveform of the CD – 1984 version shows a very good dynamic range confirmed with DR12.
The spectrogram shows that the signal rises to 22 kHz with no signal above this frequency due to the 44.1 kHz sampling frequency.
The graph below compares the spectrum of the CD – 1984 (white curve) with the spectrum of the Vinyl – 1975 (blue curve).The differences between the two spectral curves are especially noticeable below 700 Hz (green zone), where the CD version exhibits stronger bass, with a significant gap of over 10 dB at 40 Hz. Above 5 kHz, small variations occur up to 14 kHz, and beyond that, the CD level remains lower than the vinyl, with a 4 dB difference at 20 kHz.
Synthesis and listening
This 1984 CD edition delivers a different sound compared to the 1975 vinyl version. It introduces a new tonal balance, with a strong boost in the low end—up to 10 dB more, as evidenced by the listening sample—while the high frequencies remain at a roughly similar level. A difference in spatial imaging is also noticeable, particularly on Wish You Were Here, where the vocals and guitar are more centrally positioned. This version would go on to serve as the reference for subsequent releases.
Rating:
- Dynamic: ●●●oo (3.5)
- Bandwidth: ●●●●o (4)
- Restitution: ●●●oo (3.5)
Sample : Wish You Were Here 16 bits 44.1 kHz:
Ed 6: CD From BOX – 2011
Presentation
This is the CD included in the Immersion Box Set. Released in 2011, this box set contains the album along with its bonus material on CD(The Original Album remastered in 2011, Unreleased Audio Tracks with Live At Wembley 1974), DVD (Audio et video), and Blu-ray formats.
| Label | EMI |
| Reference | Immersion Box Set |
| State | Europe |
| Type | CD |
| Master | PCM 16 bits 44.1 kHz |
| Mastering/Pressing | Remastered in 2011 |
| Original recording | Analogue |
| State | UK |
| Year original | 1975 |
| Year production | 2011 |
Waveform and Spectrum: DR11
The waveform of the CD From BOX – 2011 version shows a good dynamic range confirmed with DR11.
The spectrogram shows that the signal rises to 22 kHz with no signal above this frequency due to the 44.1 kHz sampling frequency.
The graph below compares the spectrum of the CD From BOX – 2011 (white curve) with the spectrum of the Box Bluray Stereo Hi-res – 2011 (blue curve).The two curves align almost perfectly up to 10 kHz. Beyond this frequency, the CD is slightly attenuated, showing a 5 dB difference at 20 kHz.
Synthesis and listening
The CD is close to the 2011 Blu-ray version, although it has slightly less brightness in the high frequencies.
Rating:
- Dynamic: ●●●oo (3.5)
- Bandwidth: ●●●●o (4)
- Restitution: ●●●oo (3.5)
Sample : Wish You Were Here 16 bits 44.1 kHz:
Ed 7: CD from SACD – 2011
Presentation
This the CD layer from the 2011 remastered SACD release presented in 16 bits 44.1 kHz (ref : 5 099952243325)
| Label | Analogue Productions |
| Reference | CAPP 33453 |
| State | US |
| Type | CD |
| Master | PCM 16 bits 44.1 kHz |
| Mastering/Pressing | Remastered in 2011 |
| Original recording | Analogue |
| State | UK |
| Year original | 1975 |
| Year production | 2011 |
Waveform and Spectrum: DR11
The waveform of the CD from SACD – 2011 version shows a good dynamic range confirmed with DR11.
The spectrogram shows that the signal rises to 22 kHz with no signal above this frequency due to the 44.1 kHz sampling frequency.
The graph below compares the spectrum of the CD from SACD – 2011 (white curve) with the spectrum of the CD From BOX – 2011 (blue curve).The two curves overlap almost perfectly up to 10 kHz. Beyond that, the SACD’s CD shows slight attenuation, with a 5 dB difference at 15 kHz.
Synthesis and listening
The CD is close to the 2011 SACD version, although it has slightly less brightness in the high frequencies.
Rating:
- Dynamic: ●●●oo (3.5)
- Bandwidth: ●●●●o (4)
- Restitution: ●●●●o (4)
Sample : Wish You Were Here 16 bits 44.1 kHz:
Ed 8: CD SBM – 1994
Presentation
This is the remastered CD in Super Bit Mapping in 1994 (ref: 74645375328)
| Label | Columbia |
| Reference | CK 53753 |
| State | US |
| Type | CD |
| Master | PCM 16 bits 44.1 kHz |
| Mastering/Pressing | Remastered in 1994 |
| Original recording | Analogue |
| State | UK |
| Year original | 1975 |
| Year production | 1994 |
Waveform and Spectrum: DR10
The waveform of the CD SBM – 1994 version shows a correct dynamic range confirmed with DR10. The reduction in dynamic range reveals the presence of clipping in the signal, which can be attributed to poorly controlled peak levels on this edition.
The spectrogram shows that the signal rises to 22 kHz with no signal above this frequency due to the 44.1 kHz sampling frequency.
The graph below compares the spectrum of the CD SBM – 1994 (white curve) with the spectrum of the CD – 1984 (blue curve).The two curves match almost perfectly up to 2 kHz. Beyond this frequency, the 1984 CD is attenuated, showing a 10 dB difference at 20 kHz.
Synthesis and listening
This CD version offers a clearer tonal balance than the 1984 CD. The 2011 Blu-ray edition has a tonal balance close to this version. However, the presence of clipping results in reduced dynamic range, while also giving this edition more detailed low frequencies.
Rating:
- Dynamic: ●●●oo (3)
- Bandwidth: ●●●●o (4)
- Restitution: ●●●oo (3.5)
Sample : Wish You Were Here 16 bits 44.1 kHz:
Ed 9: Remastered vinyl – 2016
Presentation
This is the remastered vinyl record released in 2016 (ref:)
| Label | Columbia |
| Reference | |
| State | Europe |
| Type | Vinyl record |
| Master | 33.33 rpm LP |
| Mastering/Pressing | Remastered by Bernie Grundman |
| Original recording | Analogue |
| State | UK |
| Year original | 1975 |
| Year production | 2016 |
Waveform and Spectrum: DR13
The waveform of the Remastered vinyl – 2016 shows a high range confirmed with DR13.
The spectrogram shows that the signal rises above 20 kHz (yellow arrow) with signal above this frequency (white arrow) containing musical information and distortion due to the vinyl record’s operating principle.
The graph below compares the spectrum of the Remastered vinyl – 2016 (white curve) with the spectrum of the Vinyl – 1975 (blue curve).The differences between the two spectral curves are particularly pronounced below 700 Hz (green zone), where the 2016 vinyl version exhibits stronger bass, with a significant 10 dB difference at 40 Hz. Above 4 kHz (yellow zone), there is a substantial rise up to 15 kHz, reaching a 15 dB difference, before decreasing sharply up to 17 kHz. Beyond 17 kHz (red zone), significant variations occur up to 23 kHz, with amplitude fluctuations between 10 and 20 dB. This is a characteristic feature of lacquers cut by Bernie Grundman.
Synthesis and listening
This vinyl edition adopts the new tonal balance and spatial imaging of the 2016 digital version, but it does not preserve the original sound of the 1975 vinyl.
Rating:
- Dynamic: ●●●●o (4)
- Bandwidth: ●●●●● (5)
- Surface noise: ●●●●o (4)
- Restitution: ●●●oo (3.5)
Sample : Wish You Were Here 24 bits 192 kHz:
Ed 10: SACD 2.0 – 2011
Presentation
This the stereo SACD layer from the 2011 remastered SACD release presented in DSD64 (ref : 5 099952243325)
| Label | Analogue Productions |
| Reference | CAPP 33453 |
| State | US |
| Type | SACD |
| Master | DSD64 |
| Mastering/Pressing | Remastered in 2011 |
| Original recording | Analogue |
| State | UK |
| Year original | 1975 |
| Year production | 2011 |
Waveform and Spectrum: DR12
The waveform of the SACD 2.0 – 2011 version shows a very good dynamic range confirmed with DR12.
The spectrogram below represents the SACD. The yellow arrow shows that the signal rises well above 20 kHz. We also find the characteristic noise of DSD64 beyond 30 kHz (white arrow).
The graph below compares the spectrum of the SACD 2.0 – 2011 (white curve) with the spectrum of the Box Bluray Stereo Hi-res – 2011 (blue curve).The two curves overlap perfectly up to 30 kHz. Beyond this point, an increase in noise is observed on the SACD (yellow arrow), caused by the DSD64 encoding.
Synthesis and listening
This SACD version is similar to the stereo version of the 2011 Blu-ray. It retains the same tonal balance and spatial sound. The difference in sound between these two versions mainly stems from the DAC processing differences between the 24-bit/96 kHz PCM and the DSD64 used for the SACD.
Rating:
- Dynamic: ●●●oo (3.5)
- Bandwidth: ●●●●● (5)
- Restitution: ●●●●o (4)
Sample : Wish You Were Here 24 bits 176.4 kHz:
Ed 11: SACD 5.1 – 2011
Presentation
This the 5.1 SACD layer from the 2011 remastered SACD release presented in DSD64 (ref : 5 099952243325)
| Label | Analogue Productions |
| Reference | CAPP 33453 |
| State | US |
| Type | SACD 5.1 |
| Master | DSD64 |
| Mastering/Pressing | Remastered in 2011 |
| Original recording | Analogue |
| State | UK |
| Year original | 1975 |
| Year production | 2011 |
Spatialization:
The spatialization of SACD 5.1 – 2011 version varies from track to track, with values between 3.4 and 4.5.
Spatialization : ●●●●o (3.8)
Below the spatialization for all tracks. Click on the images to zoom in.
Waveform and Spectrum: DR13
The waveform of the SACD 5.1 – 2011 shows a high range confirmed with DR13.
The spectrogram below represents the SACD in 5.1. The yellow arrow shows that the signal rises well above 20 kHz. We also find the characteristic noise of DSD64 beyond 30 kHz (white arrow).
The graph below represents the spectrum of the SACD 5.1 – 2011.
Above 25 kHz, the noise level increases for SACD (yellow arrow), due to the DSD64 principle used.
Synthesis and listening
This SACD 5.1 version is similar to the 5.1 version of the 2011 Blu-ray. It retains the same tonal balance and spatial sound. The difference in sound between these two versions mainly stems from the DAC processing differences between the 24-bit/96 kHz PCM and the DSD64 used for the SACD.
Rating:
- Dynamic: ●●●●o (4)
- Bandwidth: ●●●●● (5)
- Spatialization: ●●●●o (3.8)
- Restitution: ●●●●o (4)
Sample : Wish You Were Here 5.1 24 bits 88.2 kHz:
The sample is in 5.1 wav format, if you can not play the sample in your navigator, you can save it, right button menu and “Save Audio As…” and play it with an external player.
Ed 12: Vinyl – 1975
Presentation
This is the US original vinyl record released in 1975 (ref:PC 33453)
| Label | Columbia |
| Reference | PC 33453 |
| State | US |
| Type | Vinyl record |
| Master | 33.33 rpm LP |
| Mastering/Pressing | Original Mix |
| Original recording | Analogue |
| State | UK |
| Year original | 1975 |
| Year production | 1975 |
Waveform and Spectrum: DR13
The waveform of the Vinyl – 1975 shows a high range confirmed with DR13.
The spectrogram shows that the signal rises above 20 kHz (yellow arrow) with signal above this frequency (white arrow) containing musical information and distortion due to the vinyl record’s operating principle.
The graph below compares the spectrum of the Vinyl – 1975 (white curve) with the spectrum of the Vinyl 50th – 2025 (blue curve).The differences between the two spectral curves are particularly pronounced below 700 Hz (green zone), where the 2025 vinyl version exhibits stronger bass, with a significant 8 dB difference at 40 Hz. Above 4 kHz (yellow zone), there is a substantial rise up to 14 kHz, with a 14 dB difference, followed by significant variations up to 20 kHz (red zone), with amplitude fluctuations between 10 and 20 dB. This is a characteristic of lacquers cut by Bernie Grundman, suggesting a potential issue with the cutting head. It is really unfortunate that the quality of the cutting equipment is not checked, as many other productions, even small runs, do not exhibit this defect.
Synthesis and listening
This 1975 vinyl edition allows listeners to rediscover the album’s original mix in its most authentic form. It preserves the original tonal character and spatial presentation as they were intended at the time of the initial release. These elements were ajusted with the CD release about ten years later, particularly in terms of tonal balance and soundstage.
Rating:
- Dynamic: ●●●●o (4)
- Bandwidth: ●●●●● (5)
- Surface noise: ●●●●o (4)
- Restitution: ●●●●o (4.5)
Sample : Wish You Were Here 24 bits 192 kHz:
Ed 13: Tidal Dolby Atmos – 2025
Presentation
This is the Tidal Dolby Atmos presented in Dolby Digital Plus (768 kbits/s) or AC-4 (link).
| Label | Tidal |
| Reference | Tidal Dolby Atmos |
| State | Europe |
| Type | Streaming Dolby Digital Plus 768 kbits/s |
| Master | Dolby Atmos ADM |
| Mastering/Pressing | Remixed in 2025 |
| Original recording | Analogue |
| State | UK |
| Year original | 1975 |
| Year production | 2025 |
Spatialization:
The spatialization of Tidal Dolby Atmos – 2025 version varies from track to track, with values between 5.2 and 7.4.
Spatialization : ●●●●●●oooo (6.6)
Below the spatialization for all tracks. Click on the images to zoom in.
Waveform and Spectrum: DR12
The waveform of the Tidal Dolby Atmos – 2025 version shows a very good dynamic range confirmed with DR12.
The spectrogram of the Tidal Dolby Atmos track in 7.1.4 is limited to 20kHz with no signal above. This limitation is due to Dolby Digital Plus encoding, which is a lossy encoder that limits bandwidth to optimize data size for a bit rate of 768 kbits/s.
The graph below represents the spectrum of the Tidal Dolby Atmos – 2025.
The spectrum of Dolby Atmos version decoded in 7.1 shows that all channels are used. The high-frequency is limited at 20 kHz due to Dolby Digital Plus encoding under the 24 kHz due to the 48 kHz sampling frequency used.
Synthesis and listening
The Dolby Atmos version delivered in Dolby Digital Plus for streaming provides less refinement and spatial accuracy compared to the Blu-ray edition, which uses the lossless Dolby TrueHD codec. The Blu-ray release offers superior audio clarity, finer detail, and a more precise spatial soundstage, resulting in a richer and more immersive listening experience.
Rating:
- Dynamic: ●●●oo (3.5)
- Bandwidth: ●●●●o (4)
- Spatialization: ●●●●●●oooo (6.6)
- Restitution: ●●●oo (3.5)
Sample : Wish You Were Here 7.1 Dolby Atmos (Downmixed in 7.1) :
The sample is in 7.1 wav format, if you can not play the sample in your navigator, you can save it, right button menu and “Save Audio As…” and play it with an external player.
Ed 14: Tidal MAX – 2016
Presentation
This is the Tidal Max version presentetd in 24 bits 192 kHz (link).
| Label | Tidal |
| Reference | Tidal MAX |
| State | Europe |
| Type | Streaming |
| Master | FLAC 24 bits 192 kHz |
| Mastering/Pressing | Remastered in 2016 |
| Original recording | Analogue |
| State | UK |
| Year original | 1975 |
| Year production | 2016 |
Waveform and Spectrum: DR12
The waveform of the Tidal MAX – 2016 version shows a very good dynamic range confirmed with DR12.
The spectrogram shows that the signal rises to 96 kHz due to the 192 kHz sampling frequency.
The graph below compares the spectrum of the Tidal MAX – 2016 (white curve) with the spectrum of the Tidal MAX 50th – 2025 (blue curve).The two curves overlap perfectly.
Synthesis and listening
A similar sound quality can be found on the 50th anniversary Tidal version.
Rating:
- Dynamic: ●●●oo (3.5)
- Bandwidth: ●●●●● (5)
- Restitution: ●●●●o (4.5)
Sample : Wish You Were Here 24 bits 192 kHz:
Ed 15: Tidal MAX 50th – 2025
Presentation
This is the Tidal Max version presentetd in 24 bits 192 kHz (link).
| Label | Tidal |
| Reference | Tidal MAX |
| State | Europe |
| Type | Streaming |
| Master | FLAC 24 bits 192 kHz |
| Mastering/Pressing | Remastered in 2025 |
| Original recording | Analogue |
| State | UK |
| Year original | 1975 |
| Year production | 2025 |
Waveform and Spectrum: DR12
The waveform of the Tidal MAX 50th – 2025 version shows a very good dynamic range confirmed with DR12.
The spectrogram shows that the signal rises to 96 kHz due to the 192 kHz sampling frequency.
The graph below compares the spectrum of the Tidal MAX 50th – 2025 (white curve) with the spectrum of the Bluray Stereo Hi-res – 2025 (blue curve).The two curves overlap perfectly.
Synthesis and listening
The sound of this high-resolution version is comparable to that of the 50th anniversary Blu-ray.
Rating:
- Dynamic: ●●●oo (3.5)
- Bandwidth: ●●●●● (5)
- Restitution: ●●●●o (4.5)
Sample : Wish You Were Here 24 bits 192 kHz:
Ed 16: CD 50th – 2025
Presentation
This is the CD edition released for the 40th anniversary. This version includes two compact discs, and only the five tracks from the original version are compared (ref : 198028767224)
| Label | Columbia |
| Reference | 198028767224 |
| State | Europe |
| Type | CD |
| Master | PCM 16 bits 44.1 kHz |
| Mastering/Pressing | Remastered in 2025 |
| Original recording | Analogue |
| State | UK |
| Year original | 1975 |
| Year production | 2025 |
Waveform and Spectrum: DR12
The waveform of the CD 40th – 2025 version shows a very good dynamic range confirmed with DR12.
The spectrogram shows that the signal rises to 22 kHz with no signal above this frequency due to the 44.1 kHz sampling frequency.
The graph below compares the spectrum of the CD 40th – 2025 (white curve) with the spectrum of the Bluray Stereo Hi-res – 2025 (blue curve).The two curves overlap perfectly up to 22 kHz, the CD’s limit due to the 44.1 kHz sampling rate used.
Synthesis and listening
The sound of this 50th anniversary CD edition is similar to the stereo version on the Blu-ray, which offers very high resolution at 24-bit/192 kHz. The CD’s sound is slightly less detailed in the high frequencies compared to the Blu-ray, but this difference may also result from variations in DAC processing between the 44.1 kHz and 192 kHz sampling rates.
Rating:
- Dynamic: ●●●oo (3.5)
- Bandwidth: ●●●●o (4)
- Restitution: ●●●●o (4)
Sample : Wish You Were Here 16 bits 44.1 kHz:
Ed 17: Bluray 4.0 Mix – 2025
Presentation
This is the 4.0 track taken from the Blu-ray presented in 24 bits 96 kHz. It includes several mixes of the album: the 4.0 quadraphonic mix (Quad 1976), the 5.1 mix from 2009, the 1975 stereo version, as well as a new Dolby Atmos mix released in 2025. The Blu-ray includes the 9 bonus tracks from the 2CD and 3LP editions in high-resolution stereo. Even more exciting, however, is the exclusive feature available only on the Blu-ray (and digitally): Live Bootleg. This consists of 16 live recordings captured by the legendary bootlegger Mike Millard during Pink Floyd’s concert at the Los Angeles Sports Arena on April 26, 1975, carefully restored and remastered by Steven Wilson. (ref: 198028767392)
| Label | Columbia |
| Reference | 198028767392 |
| State | Europe |
| Type | Bluray PCM 4.0 24 bits 96 kHz |
| Master | PCM 4.0 |
| Mastering/Pressing | Mixed in 1976 |
| Original recording | Analogue |
| State | UK |
| Year original | 1975 |
| Year production | 2025 |
Spatialization:
The spatialization of Bluray 4.0 Mix – 2025 version varies from track to track, with values between 3.7 and 4.9.
Spatialization : ●●●●o (4.2)
Below the spatialization for all tracks. Click on the images to zoom in.
Waveform and Spectrum: DR12
The waveform of the Bluray 4.0 Mix – 2025 version shows a very good dynamic range confirmed with DR12.
The spectrogram shows that the signal up to 48 kHz due to the 96 kHz sampling frequency.
The graph below represents the spectrum of the Bluray 4.0 Mix – 2025.
The maximum frequency of the spectrum is 48 kHz, which results from the 96 kHz sampling rate used.
Synthesis and listening
This quadraphonic mix, created in 1976, is very different from what is done today with Dolby Atmos mixes. It was designed to be inventive, highly modern, and bold for its time, making extreme use of the channels with very pronounced separations, as in Wish You Were Here, where the guitar is on the left and the vocals more on the right. Nevertheless, it remains a mix worth exploring to understand the spirit of the album at the time of its release, 50 years ago.
Rating:
- Dynamic: ●●●oo (3.5)
- Bandwidth: ●●●●● (5)
- Spatialization: ●●●●o (4.2)
- Restitution: ●●●●o (4.5)
Sample : Wish You Were Here 4.0 24 bits 96 kHz:
The sample is in 7.1 wav format, if you can not play the sample in your navigator, you can save it, right button menu and “Save Audio As…” and play it with an external player.
Ed 18: Bluray 5.1 Mix – 2025
Presentation
This is the 5.1 track taken from the Blu-ray presented in 24 bits 96 kHz. It includes several mixes of the album: the 4.0 quadraphonic mix (Quad 1976), the 5.1 mix from 2009, the 1975 stereo version, as well as a new Dolby Atmos mix released in 2025. The Blu-ray also contains bonus tracks and video content, including concert footage (ref198028767392)
| Label | Columbia |
| Reference | 198028767392 |
| State | Europe |
| Type | Bluray DTS HDMA 5.1 24 bits 96 kHz |
| Master | PCM 4.0 |
| Mastering/Pressing | Mixed in 2009 |
| Original recording | Analogue |
| State | UK |
| Year original | 1975 |
| Year production | 2025 |
Spatialization:
The spatialization of Bluray 5.1 Mix – 2025 version varies from track to track, with values between 3.1 and 4.3.
Spatialization : ●●●oo (3.6)
Below the spatialization for all tracks. Click on the images to zoom in.
Waveform and Spectrum: DR13
The waveform of the Bluray 5.1 Mix – 2025 shows a high range confirmed with DR13.
The spectrogram shows that the signal up to 48 kHz due to the 96 kHz sampling frequency.
The graph below represents the spectrum of the Bluray 5.1 Mix – 2025.
The maximum frequency of the spectrum is 48 kHz, which results from the 96 kHz sampling rate used.
Synthesis and listening
This 5.1 remix offers a more balanced and less extreme presentation than the original 4.0 mix, which is also included on this Blu-ray edition. Greater attention is given to spatial imaging while keeping the overall sound more coherent and toning down the more pronounced surround effects, as can be heard in the Wish You Were Here sample. The 5.1 mix also readjusts the tonal balance, with fuller bass response similar to that found on the stereo versions.
Rating:
- Dynamic: ●●●●o (4)
- Bandwidth: ●●●●● (5)
- Spatialization: ●●●oo (3.6)
- Restitution: ●●●●o (4)
Sample : Wish You Were Here 5.1 24 bits 96 kHz:
The sample is in 5.1 wav format, if you can not play the sample in your navigator, you can save it, right button menu and “Save Audio As…” and play it with an external player.
Ed 19: Bluray Dolby Atmos – 2025
Presentation
This is the Dolby Atmos track taken from the Blu-ray encoded in Dolby TrueHD. It includes several mixes of the album: the 4.0 quadraphonic mix (Quad 1976), the 5.1 mix from 2009, the 1975 stereo version, as well as a new Dolby Atmos mix released in 2025. The Blu-ray also contains bonus tracks and video content, including concert footage (ref198028767392)
| Label | Columbia |
| Reference | 198028767392 |
| State | Europe |
| Type | Blu-ray Dolby Digital TrueHD Lossless |
| Master | Dolby Atmos ADM |
| Mastering/Pressing | Mixed in 2009 |
| Original recording | Analogue |
| State | UK |
| Year original | 1975 |
| Year production | 2025 |
Spatialization:
The spatialization of Bluray Dolby Atmos – 2025 version varies from track to track, with values between 5.3 and 7.5.
Spatialization : ●●●●●●●ooo (6.7)
Below the spatialization for all tracks. Click on the images to zoom in.
Waveform and Spectrum: DR13
The waveform of the Bluray Dolby Atmos – 2025 shows a high range confirmed with DR13.
The spectrogram of the Atmos in 7.1.4 version of blu-ray shows that the signal goes down to 24 kHz and that there is no signal above this frequency , due to the 48 kHz sampling frequency used with Dolby Digital TrueHD encoding (lossless).
The graph below represents the spectrum of the Bluray Dolby Atmos – 2025.
The Dolby Atmos remix downmixed to 7.1 is based on a sampling frequency of 48 kHz, limiting the bandwidth to 24 kHz.
Synthesis and listening
The Dolby Atmos version can be seen as a spatial extension of the 5.1 mix, featuring a more contemporary tonal balance and a more evenly distributed soundstage. However, as with the 5.1 version, it lacks the originality and boldness of the 4.0 mix. It is a pity that this version was not drawn upon more extensively as inspiration for this new Dolby Atmos mix.
Rating:
- Dynamic: ●●●●o (4)
- Bandwidth: ●●●●o (4)
- Spatialization: ●●●●●●●ooo (6.7)
- Restitution: ●●●●o (4)
Sample : Wish You Were Here 7.1 Dolby Atmos (Downmixed in 7.1) :
The sample is in 7.1 wav format, if you can not play the sample in your navigator, you can save it, right button menu and “Save Audio As…” and play it with an external player.
Ed 20: Bluray Stereo Hi-res – 2025
Presentation
This is the stereo track taken from the Blu-ray presented in 24 bits 192 kHz. It includes several mixes of the album: the 4.0 quadraphonic mix (Quad 1976), the 5.1 mix from 2009, the 1975 stereo version, as well as a new Dolby Atmos mix released in 2025. The Blu-ray also contains bonus tracks and video content, including concert footage (ref198028767392)
| Label | Columbia |
| Reference | 198028767392 |
| State | Europe |
| Type | PCM Stereo |
| Master | PCm 24 bits 192 kHz |
| Mastering/Pressing | Original stereo Mix |
| Original recording | Analogue |
| State | UK |
| Year original | 1975 |
| Year production | 2025 |
Waveform and Spectrum: DR12
The waveform of the Bluray Stereo Hi-res – 2025 version shows a very good dynamic range confirmed with DR12.
The spectrogram shows that the signal up to 96 kHz due to the 192 kHz sampling frequency.
The graph below compares the spectrum of the Bluray Stereo Hi-res – 2025 (white curve) with the spectrum of the CD – 1984 (blue curve).The two curves overlap almost perfectly up to 5 kHz. Beyond that, the 2025 Bluray edition shows a higher level, reaching a 15 dB difference at 20 kHz.
The graph below compares the spectrum of the Bluray Stereo Hi-res – 2025 (white curve) with the spectrum of theEd 3: Box Bluray Stereo Hi-res – 2011. The two curves overlap almost perfectly up to 5 kHz. Beyond that, the 2025 Bluray edition shows a higher level, reaching a 3 dB difference at 20 kHz.
Synthesis and listening
This version is the clearest and most precise in the low frequencies of all editions since the 1984 CD. Its tonal balance is closer to the current sound standard than that of the 1975 vinyl version.
Rating:
- Dynamic: ●●●oo (3.5)
- Bandwidth: ●●●●● (5)
- Restitution: ●●●●o (4.5)
Sample : Wish You Were Here 24 bits 192 kHz:
Ed 21: Vinyl 50th – 2025
Presentation
This is the vinyl record taken from the three-LP box set released for the album’s 50th anniversary (ref: 198028767118)
| Label | Columbia |
| Reference | 198028767118 |
| State | Europe |
| Type | Vinyl record |
| Master | 33.33 rpm LP |
| Mastering/Pressing | |
| Original recording | Analogue |
| State | UK |
| Year original | 1975 |
| Year production | 2025 |
Waveform and Spectrum: DR13
The waveform of the Vinyl 50th – 2025 shows a high range confirmed with DR13.
The spectrogram shows that the signal rises above 20 kHz (yellow arrow) with signal above this frequency (white arrow) containing musical information and distortion due to the vinyl record’s operating principle.
The graph below compares the spectrum of the Vinyl 50th – 2025 (white curve) with the spectrum of the Bluray Stereo Hi-res – 2025 (blue curve).The two curves overlap up to 10 kHz. Beyond this (red zone), significant variations in the vinyl cutting level are observed. This is a characteristic of Bernie Grundman’s cuts, which alters the sound reproduction in the high frequencies. The issue originates in the lacquer cutting phase and would require adjustments to the cutting machines, as it does not occur in many other productions made by different companies.
Synthesis and listening
This vinyl edition is truly disappointing, as it loses the natural sound in the high frequencies. The spectral analysis of the lacquer cut by Bernie Grundman clearly shows quality issues above 14 kHz, with significant level variations between 10 and 20 dB. This was already the case for Dark Side of the Moon—nothing has changed. It is high time to check the cutting equipment or turn to competitors who offer high-quality cuts without this flaw. It’s really unfortunate for this 50th anniversary!
Rating:
- Dynamic: ●●●●o (4)
- Bandwidth: ●●●●● (5)
- Surface noise: ●●●●o (4)
- Restitution: ●●●oo (3)
Sample : Wish You Were Here 24 bits 192 kHz:
Ed 22: Yellow Flame vinyl 50th – 2025
Presentation
This is the yellow flame vinyl record released for the album’s 50th anniversary (ref: 19802974631)
| Label | Columbia |
| Reference | 198028767118 |
| State | Europe |
| Type | Vinyl record |
| Master | 33.33 rpm LP Yellow Flame |
| Mastering/Pressing | |
| Original recording | Analogue |
| State | UK |
| Year original | 1975 |
| Year production | 2025 |
Waveform and Spectrum: DR13
The waveform of the Yellow Flame vinyl 50th – 2025 shows a high range confirmed with DR13.
The spectrogram shows that the signal rises above 20 kHz (yellow arrow) with signal above this frequency (white arrow) containing musical information and distortion due to the vinyl record’s operating principle.
The graph below compares the spectrum of the Yellow Flame vinyl 50th – 2025 (white curve) with the spectrum of the Vinyl 50th – 2025 (blue curve).The two curves overlap perfectly.
Synthesis and listening
The sound quality is similar to the version pressed on black vinyl (Ed21 2025), as it was made from the same lacquer cut. However, surface noise is slightly higher on this colored edition.
Rating:
- Dynamic: ●●●●o (4)
- Bandwidth: ●●●●● (5)
- Surface noise: ●●●oo (3.5)
- Restitution: ●●●oo (3)
Sample : Wish You Were Here 24 bits 192 kHz:
If you want to experience the mix with the original tonal character, it is best to choose the original vinyl version (the one tested here is from 1975) or the 4.0 mix available on the Blu-ray editions.
All recent versions, starting with the 1984 CD, feature different tonal balance and spatial imaging, evolving from a less clear mix to the 2025 edition, which is the clearest and most precise.
This new edition stands out as a success, particularly the Blu-ray, which brings together the 24-bit/192 kHz stereo version, the original 4.0 mix, and the 5.1 and Dolby Atmos remixes. While these newer mixes offer a more balanced tonal presentation, they lose some of the originality that defined the 4.0 mix.
However, the 2025 vinyl editions show a quality issue around 15 kHz, likely due to a problem with the cutting heads, which would require adjustment to achieve the level of quality found on other vinyl productions.
Dynamic Range measurements are shown below.
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Measurements
Dynamic Range comparaisons
Dynamic represents the ability to reproduce a wide range of sounds from the softest to the loudest. The target is to compare the dynamics of the music and not of the media (CD, digital files or vinyl).
For our 22 editions reviewed have obtained the following Dynamic Range (DR) :
| BOX Bluray 4.0 Mix – 2011 | BOX Bluray 5.1 Mix – 2011 | Box Bluray Stereo Hi-res – 2011 | CD – 2017 | CD – 1984 | CD From BOX – 2011 | CD from SACD – 2011 | CD SBM – 1994 | Remastered vinyl – 2016 | SACD 2.0 – 2011 | SACD 5.1 – 2011 | Vinyl – 1975 | Tidal Dolby Atmos – 2025 | Tidal MAX – 2016 | Tidal MAX 50th – 2025 | CD 50th – 2025 | Bluray 4.0 Mix – 2025 | Bluray 5.1 Mix – 2025 | Bluray Dolby Atmos – 2025 | Bluray Stereo Hi-res – 2025 | Vinyl 50th – 2025 | Yellow Flame vinyl 50th – 2025 | |
| Global | DR12 | DR13 | DR12 | DR11 | DR12 | DR11 | DR11 | DR10 | DR13 | DR12 | DR13 | DR13 | DR12 | DR12 | DR12 | DR12 | DR12 | DR13 | DR13 | DR12 | DR13 | DR13 |
| Min | DR10 | DR12 | DR11 | DR11 | DR11 | DR11 | DR11 | DR9 | DR12 | DR11 | DR12 | DR12 | DR10 | DR11 | DR11 | DR11 | DR10 | DR12 | DR12 | DR11 | DR12 | DR12 |
| Max | DR14 | DR13 | DR12 | DR12 | DR13 | DR12 | DR12 | DR11 | DR14 | DR12 | DR13 | DR14 | DR13 | DR12 | DR12 | DR12 | DR14 | DR13 | DR16 | DR12 | DR14 | DR14 |
| Shine On You Crazy Diamond (Parts 1-5) | DR14 | DR13 | DR12 | DR11 | DR12 | DR11 | DR11 | DR10 | DR13 | DR12 | DR13 | DR13 | DR13 | DR12 | DR12 | DR12 | DR14 | DR13 | DR12 | DR12 | DR14 | DR14 |
| Welcome To The Machine | DR10 | DR13 | DR11 | DR11 | DR11 | DR11 | DR11 | DR09 | DR12 | DR11 | DR13 | DR12 | DR12 | DR11 | DR11 | DR11 | DR10 | DR13 | DR12 | DR11 | DR12 | DR12 |
| Have A Cigar | DR12 | DR12 | DR12 | DR11 | DR12 | DR11 | DR12 | DR10 | DR14 | DR12 | DR12 | DR12 | DR10 | DR12 | DR12 | DR12 | DR12 | DR12 | DR16 | DR12 | DR14 | DR14 |
| Wish You Were Here | DR13 | DR12 | DR12 | DR12 | DR13 | DR12 | DR12 | DR11 | DR13 | DR12 | DR12 | DR14 | DR13 | DR12 | DR12 | DR12 | DR13 | DR12 | DR13 | DR12 | DR14 | DR14 |
| Shine On You Crazy Diamond (Parts 6-9) | DR13 | DR13 | DR11 | DR11 | DR12 | DR11 | DR11 | DR10 | DR12 | DR12 | DR13 | DR13 | DR13 | DR11 | DR11 | DR11 | DR13 | DR12 | DR13 | DR11 | DR12 | DR13 |
As a reminder, the scale goes from 0 to more 20, but the dynamics are considered good from 12, quite good between 10 and 11, and deteriorate below 10.
Detail of the ratings :
- Dynamic :
- Significant dynamic compression, DR less than 7
- Compression of the present dynamics, DR between 7 and 9.
- Correct piece DR >=10
- No dynamic compression (DR >12), dynamic rendering
- No dynamic compression, high DR and very dynamic sound rendering
- Spectrum :
- Spectrum cut and less than 15 khz
- Spectrum cut at 15 khz
- Spectrum not conforming to the original and cut (not HD) or original but limited bandwidth (but less than 20 kHz)
- Spectrum conforming to the original (but not HD)
- Spectrum conforming to the original with HD resolution (higher than 24kHz)
- Surface noise (only for vinyl):
- Continuous audible noise
- Audible surface noise except on passages with a high level of noise
- Reduced surface noise, barely audible on low level crossings
- Low surface noise, very good quality
- Very low surface noise, no defects, almost inaudible on the quiet passages (exceptional disc)
- Spatialization :
- Between 0 and 5 for 5.1 or 7.1 channels configuration
- Between 0 and 10 for Atmos configuration (7.1.4)
- For more information on spatialization, you can read the article describing this parameter here.
- Restitution :
- Low quality of the restitution mixing dynamics, clarity, separation of voices and instruments.
- Average quality of the restitution mixing dynamics, clarity, separation of voices and instruments.
- Quality of the restitution mixing dynamics, clarity, separation of voices and instruments. Good record.
- High quality of the restitution mixing dynamics, clarity, separation of voices and instruments. Very high level disc.
- Maximum quality of the restitution mixing dynamics, clarity, separation of voices and instruments. Exceptional disc.
Travail de titan 👍
Merci !
Merci jean-François pour cet énorme travail!
Merci Christian !
A useful comparison of the original mix would be 2011 (Immersion) Hi Res stereo to 2025 BluRay Hi Res stereo.
I added a comparison of the spectra from the 2011 and 2025 Blu-rays to Ed 20: Blu-ray Stereo Hi-Res – 2025.
Bernie Grundman has problems hearing high frequencies it appears.
Im 54 and like to raise these frequencies after the fact – not on a master!
Travail impressionnant et très utile pour choisir la meilleure version. Il est certain que le Blu-ray 2025 est une belle opportunité d’avoir tout ce qui est possible pour cet album, du stéréo à l’ATMOS et le tout dans sa qualité maximale.