Mobile Fidelity

History of Mobile Fidelity

Mobile Fidelity Sound Lab (MFSL or MoFi) is an American record label known for producing high-quality audiophile recordings. Established in 1977, the company has pioneered the production of high-fidelity vinyl records, compact discs, and other formats that cater to the demands of audiophiles around the world.

Founding and Early Years

Mobile Fidelity Sound Lab was founded by Brad Miller and Herb Belkin in 1977. Miller, an audio engineer, and Belkin, a record distributor, shared a passion for high-quality audio and recognized the need for superior-sounding records. They believed that the standard vinyl records of the time did not do justice to the music they contained.

The duo set out to create a new standard for vinyl records, and their first release was a reissue of the 1961 album "Julie Is Her Name" by Julie London. This record was well-received by audiophiles, and it marked the beginning of Mobile Fidelity's journey as a leading producer of high-fidelity audio recordings.

The Original Master Recording Process

Mobile Fidelity developed a unique process called the Original Master Recording (OMR) to produce high-quality vinyl records. This process involves using the original master tapes from the recording sessions, which contain the purest and most accurate representation of the music.

The OMR process also involves half-speed mastering, where the master tape is played back at half-speed while the cutting lathe also runs at half-speed. This allows for more accurate groove spacing and better high-frequency reproduction. Mobile Fidelity's vinyl records were also pressed on high-quality, 180-gram virgin vinyl, ensuring a quieter and more durable end product.

Expansion and Diversification

Over the years, Mobile Fidelity expanded its catalogue and began reissuing albums from a wide range of genres, including rock, jazz, classical, and more. Some of their most famous releases include "Dark Side of the Moon" by Pink Floyd, "Rumours" by Fleetwood Mac, and "Aja" by Steely Dan.

In the 1980s, as the compact disc (CD) format gained popularity, Mobile Fidelity began producing high-quality CDs using a process called Ultradisc. This involved using 24-karat gold instead of aluminium for the reflective layer, which provided better longevity and improved sound quality. They also introduced the Gain System, a proprietary mastering process that optimized the sound quality of digital recordings.

Challenges and Revival

Mobile Fidelity faced financial difficulties in the late 1990s, which led to the company's temporary closure in 1999. However, in 2001, Music Direct, a Chicago-based mail-order music retailer, acquired the company and revived the Mobile Fidelity brand.

Under new ownership, Mobile Fidelity continued to produce high-quality vinyl records and CDs, and in 2006, they introduced the Silver Label series, which featured more affordable vinyl releases. In recent years, the company has also ventured into producing high-resolution digital downloads and hardware, such as turntables and phono preamplifiers.

Legacy

Today, Mobile Fidelity Sound Lab remains a respected name in the world of audiophile recordings. Their commitment to quality and innovation has earned them a loyal following among music enthusiasts who seek the best possible listening experience. Mobile Fidelity's releases are highly sought after by collectors and continue to set the standard for high-fidelity audio.

For More Info Contact:

For more information on the ranges of Mobile Fidelity or If you have any questions or queries or would like to have a demonstration and listen to your favourite vinyl and your favourite tracks in our demonstration rooms, please get in touch with our team of experts on 02476 631707 or 02476 525200 or use our Contact Form. We would love to hear from you.

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