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MoFi Dire Straits 2LP 45RPM
MoFi Dire Straits 2LP 45RPM
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$139.99 AUD
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$139.99 AUD
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MoFi 2LP pressing of Dire Straits' 1978 debut album on 180g vinyl at 45RPM designed to reproduce the original album's transparent sound and Mark Knopfler's guitar detail. The key benefit is increased dynamic range and clarity compared to standard LP reissues.
If you struggle with compressed digital files or 33RPM reissues that sound flat, this 2LP 45RPM set helps by widening stereo image, reducing surface noise, and preserving instrument timbre so your system reveals fingerstyle nuances and natural room ambience.
- 180g vinyl weight per disc for improved mechanical stability and lower resonance
- 2LP 45RPM configuration for measurable gains in high-frequency detail and dynamic range
- Includes original 1978 release tracks including Sultans of Swing (Billboard Hot 100 peak #4 UK Singles Chart peak #8)
- Recorded at London's Basing Street Studios and produced by Muff Winwood for transparent production characteristics
- Pressed by MoFi targeted at audiophile playback and collectors seeking archival-quality pressings
Unlike single-disc 33RPM reissues, this 2LP 45RPM pressing trades convenience for audible improvements such as lower groove distortion and better channel separation, making it suited for critical listening, archival collections, and vinyl-first systems.
Pressed and packaged for collectors, this release aligns with documented 1978 production details and MoFi's audiophile approach; recommended for listeners who prioritize proven analog fidelity and archival authenticity.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is this Dire Straits 2LP set good for audiophiles?
Yes. This 2LP set is tailored for audiophile listeners because it is pressed on 180g vinyl and cut at 45RPM, both of which improve groove spacing and high-frequency response. The album’s original recording at Basing Street Studios and production by Muff Winwood are noted for transparent, low-overhead mixes that reveal Mark Knopfler’s fingerstyle guitar and subtle room ambience. Audiophiles will hear clearer imaging and more detail compared with many 33 1/3RPM single-LP pressings. This release benefits listeners with accurate cartridge alignment, a low-resonance turntable, and a quality phono stage. As a limitation, to get the full improvement you need playback gear capable of stable 45RPM and good tracking; on entry-level setups the differences will be less pronounced.
Will this vinyl play on my standard turntable?
Yes, this 2LP set will play on a standard turntable that supports 12-inch LPs and has a 45RPM speed option. The discs are 12-inch 180g vinyl pressed to play at 45 revolutions per minute, so you must select 45RPM on your platter; otherwise pitch and playback speed will be incorrect. You also need a tonearm and cartridge with proper tracking force and alignment to avoid excessive wear. This record is compatible with most modern turntables and many vintage units that have a 45RPM setting, but it will not play correctly on record players that only support 33 1/3RPM or have fixed speeds.
Does this pressing include the original album tracks like Sultans of Swing?
Yes. This 2LP set contains the original track list from Dire Straits’ 1978 debut, including the hit single "Sultans of Swing." The release lists nine tracks: Down to the Waterline; Water of Love; Setting Me Up; Six Blade Knife; Southbound Again; Sultans of Swing; In the Gallery; Wild West End; and Lions. The set reproduces the album’s arrangements as recorded at Basing Street Studios and produced by Muff Winwood. Fans and listeners who want the classic album sequencing and the well-known single will find the full original program intact on these two 45RPM discs.
How should I care for and clean these 180g vinyl records?
Use gentle, proven methods to care for 180g vinyl to preserve sound quality and longevity. Start with an anti-static brush before and after each play to remove dust, and use a carbon-fiber brush or a record-cleaning solution with a microfiber pad for deeper cleaning. For heavy dirt, a record-cleaning machine or a distilled-water-based cleaning mix is safest; avoid household solvents that can damage the lacquer or labels. Always store discs vertically in anti-static inner sleeves and keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Proper handling, cleaning, and storage will minimize surface noise and wear, whereas washing with tap water or abrasive materials can cause permanent damage.
How does this 45RPM 2LP pressing compare to standard 33 1/3RPM single-LP versions?
This 45RPM 2LP pressing generally offers higher-fidelity playback compared with standard 33 1/3RPM single-LP versions because the faster rotation and wider groove spacing allow better transient response and reduced inner-groove distortion. The 180g weight also improves platter stability and reduces resonance. These technical differences translate into clearer highs, stronger imaging, and improved dynamic range for many tracks. However, the audible advantage depends on the quality of your playback chain; on lower-end systems the difference will be subtle. For collectors and listeners with a quality turntable, phono stage, and cartridge, the 45RPM 2LP is typically the preferred choice for sonic detail.
Is this 2LP set suitable for collectors and display?
Yes, this 180g 45RPM 2LP set is suitable for collectors because it combines audiophile-oriented pressing specs with the iconic debut album content. Collectors value heavier pressings and 45RPM format for both playback quality and shelf appeal, and the historic significance of Dire Straits’ 1978 debut adds provenance. The gatefold or multi-disc packaging commonly used for 2LP releases also presents well for display and archival storage. If you seek mint-condition rarity or numbered limited editions, check the specific release details before purchase; this pressing is notable for quality rather than claiming an ultra-rare collectible status.
Who will get the most benefit from buying this Dire Straits 2LP set?
This 2LP set benefits audiophiles, collectors, and fans of classic rock who prioritize sonic detail and authentic album presentation. Specific advantages include the 180g vinyl and 45RPM mastering that enhance clarity and dynamics, and the original album’s highly regarded songwriting and guitar work by Mark Knopfler. It is ideal for listeners with a turntable capable of 45RPM and a quality cartridge, and for collectors who want a durable, well-pressed edition for listening as well as display. Casual listeners with basic playback gear will still enjoy the music, but they may not hear the full technical improvements offered by this pressing.
Are there any playback or handling limitations I should know about?
Yes. The main limitations are playback compatibility and handling requirements. Because this set is cut at 45RPM, you must use a turntable that supports that speed to play it correctly. Heavy 180g discs also require correct cartridge tracking force and alignment to avoid record wear. Handle records by the outer edge and label to minimize fingerprints and oils, and use anti-static sleeves for storage. Additionally, while 45RPM pressings reduce inner-groove distortion, they require more frequent side changes and a tonearm optimized for accurate tracking. These are manageable factors but important for preserving sound quality and longevity.
What makes the sound on this release stand out compared to digital versions?
This vinyl release stands out due to analog groove reproduction combined with audiophile pressing specs, which can deliver a different listening experience than many digital streams or files. The 180g vinyl and 45RPM cutting increase groove fidelity, often producing fuller midrange presence and a natural-sounding decay of acoustic instruments. The album’s original recording approach at Basing Street Studios and Mark Knopfler’s fingerstyle guitar playing translate well to analog, preserving subtle tonal color and room ambience. That said, measurable differences depend on the quality of both the vinyl mastering and your playback system, and high-resolution digital masters can also offer excellent clarity where playback chain limitations differ.
How long will a 180g vinyl pressing typically last with normal use?
With proper care, a 180g vinyl pressing can last for decades under normal use. The heavier 180g material offers improved rigidity and resistance to warping, and if you follow recommended handling and storage—using anti-static inner sleeves, keeping records vertical, avoiding heat and direct sunlight, and using a well-aligned cartridge—the grooves will experience minimal wear. Normal playback on a properly set-up turntable causes very gradual wear; excessive dust, incorrect tracking force, or dirty styluses accelerate degradation. Regular cleaning and correct setup maximize lifespan, while neglect or improper equipment can shorten it significantly.