Last week we filed a trademark for our proprietary systems. So far, things look good. It's an interesting process. You're probably wondering why and what does SEA mean?
Over the years we have developed several proprietary processes either for recording or releasing DSD recordings to the listeners.
Extended Sound Environment or E.S.E. is a proprietary process developed almost 20 years ago to describe a particular way of recording live performances in the studio. In general, it describes recording without headphones or overdubs and uses a very expensive combination of cables, preamps and microphones to get the best sound. It also means that DSD or tape was used to record. Some people ask me why we choose this path for Blue Coast Records. It's a simple answer: I like the performances the artists give. E.S.E. relies on great musicianship. Perfection is not part of the process.
A few years ago, we ran into another battle, not enough DSD recordings to satisfy our customers. Recording authentically in DSD is not easy. Most submissions were either 9624 or 4824. While we might call it 'remastering', we developed a process that was very methodical, used carefully measured analog gear and measured two outputs. While doing the least damage to the original source music, we were able to slightly enhance the dynamics and image of the audio provided. The remastered sound is then captured on DSD256. From there all other formats are created for use.
This process is considered acceptable by The Recording Academy standards for a higher resolution. End users have been buying our SEA processed files with full provenance showing. You'll see more of these kinds of remastering in the upcoming years since many of the original multitracks have been lost to fire, age or incompatible digital systems.
There is a trend coming for higher quality playback quality. Maybe the trend will continue on to include the recordings as well.
