The Capitol versions: pro

Javier Mendoza: know, i know, bla bla bla the set is out anyway an no one can stop the others to come, Let Me ask you something... What are the albums featured an described in THE BEATLES ANTHOLOGY?, AMERICAN?, MEXICAN?, BRAZILIAN?, GERMAN?, NOP... WHAT WAS THE RUBBER SOUL FEATURED ON THE ANTHOLOGY THE OFFICIAL AND WHAT-THE-BEATLES-WANT-HISTORY?... ALL BRITISH VERSIONS!!! NO MORE ... NO LESS... "... This song is in the album Beatles 6 or something... i haven't got that..." - John Lennon Laughin' at the american versions at Shea Stadium 1965 -

Dave Jacquith: When I first heard these new/old CD's, I couldn't help but smile and feel really good inside. It had been so long since I had heard that running order. All of the CD's sound really 'fresh' and lively. It's just like most of the positive remarks are saying, there really is something to this set! The mono mixes really impressed me as well, yes indeed, surprises around every corner. So the sound is wonderful, the whole idea is a good one, just one thing to complain about...the cover reproductions look like they scanned the original copies of the covers on a really crappy bed scanner, wow, what a mess! Was the Beatles '65 cover really that yello and dull? Guess I'll have to do my own.

Rick Ceragioli: OK, I've had'em for a few days, and here's how I feel. This is the sound I first heard in 1964, that sounded so radically different than anything at that time. This is the sound that made me fall in love with The Beatles' music. This is the sound of Beatlemania in America. This is why so many people have been clamoring for the Capitol LPs to be issued on CD. I know JPGR wanted the sound on the UK issues, but I don't know why. Didn't they hear these releases at all? Never? I can hardly believe they didn't. The songs finally have presence. They sound alive, just like when I first heard them on my phonograph. Even my wife was surprised how much better these songs sound like this. She said they don't sound so old anymore. I know that this isn't an adequate enough reason to satisfy the UK issue purists, but maybe they can (grudgingly) admit, these releases, by and large, have way more power than the UK releases. And, I'm sorry (to all the purists), but these track lineups are way better than the UK ones. Again, my wife (born in 1963, so she's got no nostalgia to contend with) immediately said that these track lineups made way more sense than the UK ones. She thought the songs just went together better this way. So, thanks for letting me have my little rant. And please,to those of you against these releases, understand that these releases will not harm The Beatles' legacy. No recording of them could. They could release everything in the vaults, and it would just strengthen their legacy. (And make them even bigger bags of cash, for many years to come.)

Nick Olivia: Easy answer,It's The Beatles, plain and simple ! Need I say more ?

Bruce Cunningham: I grew up knowing the Beatles ONLY through the Capitol albums. By Capitol doing what they did, they guaranteed a steady flow of output so that we American fans would always crave more! I do appreciate having the British versions on CD, but since they have had these songs re-packaged in so many different ways anyway, why not appease us baby boomers and try to keep us happy! I also want my kids and grandkids to hear them as we Americans did all those years ago! My favorite was "Yesterday...and Today

Peter Kusaywa: While I prefer the 1987 UK releases, (except I wish the first 4 were available in Stereo as well as Mono, which is another arguement all together) I'm glad the US Capitol releases are being made available, but only for nostalgic purposes. The British releases are the way the music is supposed to sound, not the "Dexterized" versions. But this is the way I grew up with and remember The Beatles. As a collector and a fan, it's something I'm glad to see released, as long as the releases are true to the originals including music and artwork (unlike the UK releases).

Jethro Easyfields: Beatles 65 was one of the first US albums I bought in the 1980's and I always enjoyed the tracks and album cover... When Beatles For Sale came out on CD, I was excited to hear the album as the Beatles intended it. ALthough it took awhile to get used to the mono CD...when CDs came out in the 80's, headphone listening was a enjoyable experience. The 4 mono Beatles CDs were not good for that. Now I can hear what I always wanted to experience... those early songs in a "fresh" stereo mix. It is even more moving these days to hear George's guitar parts floating over the mix as if was live...I'LL FOLLOW THE SUN is FAB! As a guitar player I find more things to learn from in these stereo mixes...tone and attack are more present.

Lew Karp: Having purchased the Capitol set I was pleasantly suprised at how good the sound really is. Everyone talks about I Feel Fine, and She's a Woman(unlistenable in the British form), but what about Money which is far more dramtic in the American release. The other issue that has not been touched on by Lewis and other Apple apologists is that Apple has done a horrendous job with the Beatle catalog. Unlike every other major and minor group of note from the 60s, the Beatles CDs were mixed in '87, and sound like it. Nothing has been retouched except Yellow Submarine. They are tinny, thin, and don't do the catalog justice. Perhaps if they were doing what they should be doing, rather than releasing things like Let it Be Naked(which could have been so much more), then the Capitol stuff would be unnecessary. By the way, what do McCartney and Starr think about all of this nonsense, and why isn't McCartney involved in a remastering program for Beatles albums? Finally Mr. Lewis; get a grip- it's pop music!

Thomas J. Mullen: Simple!!!!!!! These are the albums i grew up on, this is the way I know the Beatles. This was a great idea. Hats off to Capitol Records. I hope there is a vol 2 in the works.

James Brent: Just bought the box set. I thought it was terrific! I've only played the stereo tracks so far, I'll listen to the mono later. I was just re-reading some of Martin Lewis' opionions of the box set. I think he needs a "time-out". Whether he likes it or not, the fact is the albums existed. George Martin did the stereo mixing. Some of the singles had "echo". After forty years one would imagine he'd be over it by now. If he doesn't like it, he doesn't have to buy it. let him listen to his British versions. I do! You can't change history. The fact also remains that several countries used the American mixes for their own compilations. "Long Tall Sally" (mono) in Canada, "The Beatles' Beat" (stereo) in Germany, and so on. Wouldn't one believe that "Thank You Girl" is much better in stereo on "The Beatles' Second Album" than the mono single version?

Leo McMichael: Well, I read so many wonderful articles about their music and over the years have collected every sound I can afford to buy of theirs. I have all the official releases, I have the bootlegs I could find with as many different tunes that sound good (quality wise) and many promotional items. Since I was born a bit late for the initial blast of Beatlemania, I decided once CDs came out, I'd collect their music on CD since i missed things like Butcher covers etc... in the 60s when I was still in diapers. (I wasn't born until 1965 so I never even knew who Ed Sullivan was let alone the crime just about stopped for an hour or so in NYCity on night in Feb. the previous year of my birth.) So, I want them because they were part of the things fans could own. I want them because it offers choice. I have the boxed set and I want more. I hear Mr. Spizer and I hear Mr. Lewis and I believe they are both right. But, the can is now opened so, let's go all the way!!! Release those mono albums from Britain because we all know George Martin and the Beatles did NOT mis Sgt. Pepper in stereo. So, therefore that bastardized release from Parlophone in 1988 just doesn't cut it for me. It's NOT what the producer nor the artist "originally intended". In fact, they originally intended to include Penny Lane and Strawberry Fields, but they got put out as singles. They Originally intended to include It's Only a Northen Song, but that was not included. They originally intended to allow A Day in the Life to fade out naturally after the "CHORD" but it gets cut off at the end. We have better ears and better speakers and better reproduction of the sounds made back then, so we! know their original intent but it didn't happen that way. ... My argument isn't about which recording is the best or what they intended. It's simply a matter of record so to speak that they did release early mixes and they did know these things happened. They contributed to it. I believe they standardized the catalog because Capitol Records and Odeon and other subsidiaries were not reporting the correct amount of albums being sold. So, by making it easier to track just 13 album titles was a much easier book than all those different titles. The biggest drawback to selling all the extra titled albums was the way it cut back on just how many albums were sold of any given title. So, perhaps if they did release just the English albums the first time around (in 1962-66) perhaps they'd have set records (again no pun) that would never be broken in sales? Otherwise, the new set sounds great and I wasn't expecting much really. I was thinking it was more hype than anything else, but it's excellent! I do hear the early stereo mixes were from the "original intended" mixing of stereo from back then, music slightly bent to the left and voices bent to the right. So when i begin to make a definitive Anthology for myself (and it's en excellent Anthology - 8 CD and mabye I'll need 2 more to fully account for the most interesting of versions and mixes) I will be using the This Boy and I Want to Hold Your Hand both mixed for Past Masters CD in 1988.

Beatle Ed: I like the newly released Capitol versions. The audio is great. I've always preferred the hotter American mixes compared to George Martin's sterile UK treatment (especially on She's A Woman and I Feel Fine). Besides that, I still have the running order burned into my brain after all these years! Got them at a great price, $44.95, at Best Buy on the 16th. The long box packaging is weak, as I have dropped both the book and the 4 CDs on the floor. The book does not provide too much detail. I would have liked a more detailed discussion of the albums and tracks. I'm looking forward to future volumes. I would like to see Volume 2 as The Early Beatles, Beatles VI, Help, and Rubber Soul, in both mono and stereo. Finally, I would like to see Volume 3 as Yesterday and Today (butcher cover, of course), Revolver, Sgt. Pepper, and Magical Mystery Tour, in both mono and stereo. After that, maybe Hey Jude or Hollywood Bowl. But I'm content with this release; there may not be an! y future volumes! I'm really surprised these releases saw the light of day, anyway. I fully expected the whole project to be pulled right before the 16th by Apple. But I have them in my hands now! Long Live Dave Dexter, Jr.!!!

Ron Baker: The US version of "Rubber Soul" is vastly superior to the British version (even though "Nowhere Man" is my favorite Beatles song). Capitol took out some songs...one of which is outstanding ("Nowhere Man")and made a better album. One that is stylistically superior. The US album showed the Beatles at a creative zenith...not a throwaway at all on that album (except for "Run for Your Life" perhaps). Opening with "I've Just Seen a Face" is brilliant! "Drive My Car" was a very weak opening...however, it worked for the 'greatest hits' album "Yesterday...and Today". Some people find fault with everything. We CAN have our cake and eat it too!!! I personally can hardly stand the wait for the US version of "Rubber Soul" (I have 3 LP copies and a cassette copy of that album....very worn)....

Bubba: Folks, everyone needs to buy this set.... for a simple reason! This could well be the trial balloon for EMI to move on releasing the UK albums in stereo/mono CDs. Think about it!

Matthew Smith: In general, our ears appreciate stereo recordings because each ear hears something different, which makes for a more enjoyable listening experience. Specifically, the best thing about the Beatles stereo mixes is that the vocals are given more presence. I will always vote for any version of the Beatles recordings that give more presence to the voices of Paul and especially John. I appreciate the original British releases because these albums present the music as the Beatles intended. As far as the playing order of the Capitol releases, this shouldn't be that big a deal, because anyone with a computer and CD burner can create their own "Meet The Beatles" CD by ripping those tracks from the With The Beatles, Past Masters and Please Please Me CDs. My first choice is this (are you reading this Sir Paul?) - give the "Let It Be Naked" treatment to ALL of your albums. Get the original four track tapes (two tracks for Please Please Me) and use the best of today's technology to remaster those recordings. Let's face it; the stereo mixes were not a priority until 1968. Listen to how beautiful Abbey Road sounds. Imagine how Revolver would sound given the same treatment. The problem with most of the early stereo mixes is that the drums and bass are almost always panned hard right or hard left. It would be nice to hear these songs remixed so that the bass and drums are centered in the mix, especially on the rockers like Bad Boy and Rock And Roll Music. By the way, can someone explain the stereo mixes for Rubber Soul. It seems like they wanted to reproduce the two-track effect (voices panned left, instruments panned right). The songs on Rubber Soul are wonderful and deserve to be remastered. I obviously love the Beatles and will anxiously await the next Beatle release or re-release or re-re-release.

Thomas Samson:I feel that they should have released them many years ago on CD as that is the way I grew up listening to them. I just hope they don't forget "The Beatles Story", The Early Beatles" The Original "A Hard Days Night" United Artists Version as well as the George Martin Soundtrack in Full. Also i would like to see "Introducing The Beatles" In all the differant versions coming out as a box set. Also the release of many more bootlegs as lagitimate releases. Like Bob Dylan is doing. "Love Songs" would make a nice release also the Original "Rock N Roll". The Ideas are out there and should be utilized to the fullest. Plus it will only make money and lots of it. Beatles are always popular.

Brian Lenni: Finally, in stereo and dynamic. I would prefered them in the British format and the stereo mixes that Sir George Martin did. But like any other Beatle Maniac, I'll take what I can get.

Added Nov. 16, 2004

Steve Kernohan: The box has been on sale in Australia since Sunday the 14th. Initial impressions? The replica sleeves are nice and the CD labels are rather nice as well. The booklet is a little disappointing as I was expecting a long book (you know, around 10" in height rather than the small format that's included) but I am very disappointed with the box. Someone involved must have found a tab or two of Derek Taylor's acid and designed the thing when flying high as a kite. It's really awful! The best news is the music. So far I have only listened to 'Meet The Beatles' in detail and it sounds fantastic! The track running order is sensational and the sound brilliant. Do yourself a favour and BUY THIS BOX. P.S. Martin Lewis should get a copy of Meet The Beatles, place it in a good player, stick on a pair of good headphones and play the music really loud. This should blow all of the negatives from his mind and settle the argument once and for all.

Jeffrey Hooks: I was just looking to determine the song order of the American version of Rubber Soul, when I run across all this verbal bloodshed about the relative merits of the British and American versions. Let me put it like this. I do not give a damn about the mixes. What I want are the tunes on the American releases, in the order in which they were released, and I do not want anything that was not on that lp. Use the British mixes. Fine. But anyone who says the Beatles' music was compromised by the American releases is, frankly, an idiot. What you have to look at is, what do AMERICANS remember of THEIR Beatles albums? I do care what someone my age (I'm 51)from London or Manchester remembers of their Beatles albums. I care about what I, my family, my friends, and millions of other Beatle fans my age remember of their Beatles. Oh. And one last thing. The UK versions of the Stones' albums suck, and basically for the same reasons. I don't care if the mixes are by Betty Crocker, just release the American versions and have done with it. And find something better to argue about.

Added Nov. 15, 2004

Mike Ross: Any chance to get get stereo/mono CD's is ok with me let us hope that the UK company will now re-master all the British albums in mono and stereo and then the world will be happy.

Michael D. Cassaro: The Capitol releases are good, but they're a sound generation removed from the actual stereo masters. As a beatle historian and sound engineer, all we want are the "true" stereo masters of the first 4 beatles emi albums, along with stereo masters from the singles of the period. why would we want to hear them from capitol, who used second generation tapes dubbed from the emi masters? Why in this digital age, should we have to suffer with inferior stereo sound? why not trash the capitol dubs, and get the real thing from the abbey road vaults? That's the only true answer to the "when are you gonna give us stereo?" The best sound is still on the Mobile Fidelity LP's.

Daniel Albrex: Let me start here first by saying that I was born in 1980 and grew up listening to the Capitol versions. But when the anthologies came out back in 95, I was hooked and became a huge fan of the Beatles and then soon there after the British versions as well. To be honest, I don't even remember how the capitol versions sound anymore, but the idea of getting the Beatles first 4 albums REMASTERED and put in STEREO just sound incredible to me!!! I mean, I have been wating for years for "someone" to remaster and remix all the beatles albums as they did in the rerelease of yellow submarine and then in Let It Be: Naked. Granted, I didn't like the Let It Be Naked as much as I wanted to (mainly because they didn't use the actual released versions of some of my favorite songs off the album), but it was remasted and remixed and the sound quality alone was simply Icredible and reason enough for me to buy it! Now, I completely understand some people's views on the matter of releasing the C apitol versions, but I am tired of waiting for "someone" to remaster and remix everything on the British versions. And it appears that no one has become interested on the coasts of Britain to get the movement going on the remastering and remix of the "REAL" versions, so I am for the meantime or possibly for the next 20 years or more stuck with what the u.s. is supplying. And, as sad as that may seem to some...at least Capitol is doing something since noone else is. Eugene Carney: Early this morning, while driving home from work (I work the night shift), local radio station KLSX previewed the new Capitol Box set by playing the four albums, back-to-back. All I can say is WOW! These discs sounded GREAT! Finally, the LP's that we loved and grew-up with are here! To hear the Second Album in stereo after all these years - in crystal-clear CD sound - literally sent chills up and down my 48 year-old spine. To the American fan, these dics are an absoloute treasure. The British critics of these "inferior" albums simply don't get it! The U.K. versions are like the official grade-school photos we all had taken. The "proper" pose with the "proper" lighting, etc. But the Capitol versions are more like finding a box of long-lost photos that your beloved mother took. All of the emotions, all of the great memories are associated with these images! In short, the American fan is in for a real treat. These discs will not disappoint!

Bill DeYoung: I've been scanning the "con" section of this debate. Jeez, is this release taking food out of anyone's mouth? Is it hurting anyone? Should I be offended that Apple's getting more money? No to all three. Bottom line: Even Beatles music is "product" in a sense, after all the artistic angles are covered. You don't have to buy it.

Terry Thompson: In regards to Martin Lewis's attacks on Bruce Spizer regarding the new capitol box set........Martin, if you have learned to respect the original sources,as you said, then why do we have such a botched audio mix on the Hard days night DVD? I would rate that on a par with some of capitol mixes of the 60's. If for one, also grew up in America listening to those albums, as they came out.Until The Beatles organization can get a grip on re-releasing the u.k. stereo and mono remasters, then these will do nicely. (Editor's note: The AHDN DVD was that way it was because Apple didn't cooperate with its release. So blame them.)

Added Nov. 12, 2004

James Brent: When EMI decided to use the British versions of the Beatles' albums for issue on CD , I was happy because that's the way the Beatles wanted them to be heard. Releasing "Magical Mystery Tour" and the "Past Masters" albums was also a good idea because it meant that all the songs would be issued on CD. But, after time, I began to miss the American albums! Especially some of the odd-ball mixes. I've always loved "The Beatles' Second Album" (especially the mix of "Money"). I guess one could program the CD-player to re-create the order of the U.S. albums, but you wouldn't have the same mixes. I love the fact that I can have the chance hear them on CD, from the original Capitol tapes, and not from some crappy download or high-priced, equally-crappy, bootleg! My question is: Whay all the fuss against the U.S. albums appearing on CD? Why do some people frame it as a choice between one or the other? Both sets os albums lived together on this Earth in vinyl for many years (I own both sets on vinyl, I'm no snob) so why not on CD? Why not issue some of the foreign albums on CD as well? And I see that people still complain about the "first four" CD's being issued in mono. I say, what about "Sgt. Pepper" and the "White Album" being issued in mono? Why not have all the British albums in both mono and stereo (except "Abbey Road" and "Let It Be" which were never mixed in mono)? I always thought "Help!" and "Sgt. Pepper" sounded better in mono, anyway! I sincerely believe, that in the Beatles case, more is more! Apple should issue "Get Back", "The Christmas Album", "The Beatles at the Hollywood Bowl" and the Decca sessions. As I said above, no more crappy downloads and bootlegs! Please issue these CD's before all the original Beatles' fans die! My goodness, we still don't have "Let It Be" on video. What is Apple waiting for!

Jim: I was never a big fan of the "Past Masters" because we had the singles already on the american LP's. Listening to the British CD's sound incomplete to me and just when did the Beatles give back their royalities from all the extra records being sold in America? Where else can you have George H. start off an album with "Roll Over Beethoven" and it works great.

Scott Korf: It is always wonderful to hear Beatles songs remastered. I eagerly await this box set for that very reason.

E. Mueller: I can't wait for these! Been shelling out for bootleg cd's for years. These are the way that I was introduced to the Beatles. The Beatles' Second Album is one of my favorite records of all time! Give me reverb ot empty sounding holes that you can drive a truck through!

Richard Impagliazzo: Let's here it for the good old American capitalist. Those guys at Capitol Records in the 1960's knew a good thing when they saw it and no one can blame them for wanting to squeeze every last dime out of a hot property. That's the American way! Shaving a couple of songs off each record as it was released was good thinking that resulted in more profits and created an extra Beatles album we otherwise would not have had. It also gave birth to the butcher cover which was always good for a few laughs and represents a terrific collectible. The American records always were always the best and I'm tired of these whining Europeans trying to tell us otherwise. God Bless The USA!

Bart Mendoza: I really can't believe that anyone would argue against there being MORE Beatles music (albeit mixes and sequencing) legitimately available. As pointed out these albums were still in print in some form until recently and I really don't think a casual buyer would pick this collection up anyway, they'll head to the cheaper, regular sized albums, probably "1" to start. This is geared to collector's, and I for one say thanks!

Added Nov. 2, 2004

Duophonic: "I Feel Fine" and "She's A Woman" doesn't sound right at all on the "Past Masters" CD! It's the versions on "Beatles '65" that I grew up with, and I consider them the definitive versions! And the single-tracked "And I Love Her" mono is better than the Parlophone mono!

Rick Ceragioli: I had to put in my "two cents" here, too! I still expect to hear the songs in the Capitol running order, even after 20+ years of hearing the UK running orders. Even today, although I know The Fabs and George Martin intended the UK running order, the Capitol running order (and sound) still sounds "right" to my ears. I will buy these CDs in a second!

Sidney: These records should be out officially, For the same reason the Oldies but Goldies LP (the first Beatles record I bought) should be out. It existed officially and therefore should be preserved for posterity. Also, it helps that the original first four albums on mono CDs sounds like shit, like the band playing in a distant field, while all the bootlegs in stereo sounds astonishing, like the band playing in the room. Oh, and by the way, about only 8 fake mixes do not make 38 true stereo mixes fake...

Lee Sackett: Why not? These fall under the catagory of "oddball releases" like 'Let it Be...Naked' and the Anthology set; they're important, too. I have the original Capitol albums; I have to disagree that they really weren't tampered with too much: not only was too much echo and reverb put on some of the tracks, but they were also EQ'd and compressed for loudness to the point that they (and especially the Second Album) sound shrill. I also own the Mobile Fidelity box set, and if you've never heard these, you really don't know just what a great job George Martin and the Abbey Road crew did. It'd be nice if there were an SACD release of all of the original UK albums. That said, I grew up with the Capitol albums, I still listen to them and I think enough fans (especially those who weren't around then - the "One" generation, as Capitol calls them) want them, so why not?

Stephen Kemohan: After reading the 'cons' section of this debate you'd be forgiven for thing that EMI were planning to burn the original tapes and leave us with the Capital mixes as the sole source of Beatles sounds. That's simply not the case. What real harm is there in releasing these mixes? No harm at all. Is it a case of fleecing the consumer? Maybe...maybe not...it comes down to your choice on whether to buy the CDs or not. I will be buying them as I'm interested in ALL Beatles mixes. I'm Australian BTW and I have no problem with US Beatles fans getting the chance to listen to the music they grew up with. Let's just hope that this project is the precursor for the UK mixes getting sorted out resulting in releases of mono/stereo album releases.

Emi Tex: This set will take you back and trigger that warm spot in your heart that existed before you ever knew (or cared) about what Duophonic or the "British" mixes even were. On first listen, you'll be 13 again and loving those 'awful' versions of She's A Woman and I Feel Fine! Let's hope Beatles VI, The Early Beatles, Yesterday & Today, etc. will follow soon. Just mentioning those titles takes me back to a nice place.

Frank Brasher: It is the way I listened to them when I was a kid and I would love to see the US versions released.

Steven B. Topping: I'll certainly buy it. It's not rewriting history, it's acknowledging history. Big sellers from the biggest market place. No one is claiming this is what the Beatles or George Martin approved of or conceived of in 1963/1964. It's being presented as what it was. Don't understand Martin Lewis's problem with it, since he was the producer of the AHDN dvd which featured 5.1 mixes...not made from the 4-track tapes, but "electronically reprocessed" from mono. Don't think the claim can be made that those mixes were approved by the Beatles or Mr Martin. Although the mixes for the first 4 cds are the mono mixes approved by George Martin (back in 1962-1964, not in the 1980s), at the time his role as producer also consisted of the responsibility of coordinating the packaging of the album (artwork, liner notes, credits, etc). No one can say that the cd packaging of any of the Beatles cds approximates that of what was originally approved. (There should be some special award for t! he cd release of "Abbey Road" like Most Important Album with Crappiest Packaging.)

Added Oct. 29, 2004

Wayne Klein: Although there were some of The Beatles US releases that were weaker than others ("The Beatles Second Album" and "Something New" come to mind), the first album "Meet The Beatles" was a perfect gem. Combining singles and album tracks from their second British album created a cohesive album that sounded superior to "With The Beatles" with its large variety of cover tunes. Having grown up on the Americanized versions, I picked up the British imports as a teen and loved the original versions of "Rubber Soul" and "Revolver" more than the US versions. On the other hand, even a patchwork album like "Beatles '65" and "Yesterday and Today" work extremely well. While I appreciate that The Beatles and George Martin didn't intend to have the music released in the US the way they did, it's no different than when a film is released tailored to its marketplace. Having said that, I believe that both should exist. There's a place for both releases and that way fans can experience them the way they did the first time. That's what fans fell in love with not the definitive version. That's what they connect with and that's what the music is all about--connection.

Dennis Wood: It would simply be nice to hear the original Capitol lps. Also, it would be great to hear streeo versions of the 1st four British LPs as well.

Alan Brooks: I like the running order on some of them (pre-Rubber Soul) better than the British albums. If the Capitol versions are released on CD, I'LL BUY AT LEAST TWO OF THEM.

Ron Baker: The Capitol versions are the only ones I knew until I was in college...long after the Beatles disbanded. I bought import albums mainly as a curiosity. I prefer the running order of the Capitol albums...they seem more thematic entities. "Meet the Beatles" is a great introduction to the band. "Second Album" shows their take on rock and roll classics plus gives us a couple of hit singles..."Something New" had true stereo versions of the cuts that the United Artists soundtrack had in fake stereo and really did offer something new with more great rock and original tracks. "Beatles 65" was very well organized, but the stereo reprocessing of 'I Feel Fine' and 'She's a Woman' are unlistenable. The mono singles work better in this case. I can hardly wait for the next boxed set with "Rubber Soul"...to me the shining jewel in the Beatles crown.

William Larkin: Its all about nostalgia for me. I am a first generation fan and grew up with these mixes. I applaud Capitol for giving us what we asked for. PLEASE KEEP THEM COMING! How can you fault the way they marketed the Beatles? During 64 & 65 we got a new album every 3 months. Thats unheard of in any generation by any musical act. Look at how The Beatles dominated the charts. Obviously Capitol has to get some of the credit for this. People need to quit whining and enjoy the music or walk away.

Rick Moore: I'm looking forward to this Capitol release and eagerly awaiting others. Please release the mono Sgt Pepper - do these people know that even a beat up mono copy of this album goes for at least a hundred dollars on Ebay? - and Magical Mystery Tour, it may not generate massive sales but I guarantee it will be profitable.

David Reynolds: Well, its about time! I believe one of the main fires lit under Capitol/Apple to release these was "Meet The Beatles!" high placing in the Rolling Stone Top 500 Albums list. It was pretty much the only one not available in any way on CD, which must have led to embarrasing questions directed to Capitol by RS readers. ... If we're going to throw stones at the 'unbalanced' stereo mixes, lets get "Rubber Soul" as well! Maybe THAT one should be released only in mono as well!! The first Fab LPs had this reverb to compete with the rest of the American music scene, to ENABLE the Beatle songs to better compete. Think of those Motown mixes smothered in reverb at the time. Besides..."The Beatles Second Album" deserves wide release again; its one of the all-time GREAT rock and roll albums! Just sad my father's not still around so I can repay him via CD for stealing his "Second Album" all those years ago...

Saul Perez Jr.: A new Beatles product is coming out next month and Beatles fans should be very happy about that. Talk of "shoddy mixes" and bad running orders of the albums and all this talk about corporate greed shouldn't even matter. They'll benefit from sales and WE'LL benefit because of some great Beatles music. And here's another brain-teaser: if Apple (or the surviving Beatles) didn't want this box set out, why would they allow it now? This could've been one long nightmare with us hoping and praying this could come out? Anyone still hoping for the Let It Be DVD?

Chris: Capitol is giving Beatles exactly what we want - more variety! How exciting to get to hear the stereo mixes of the original 1964 tracks on CD (even if a small handful are layered in echo).

Chris Turano: Need the alternate mixes! Need to show the kids how I heard 'em first! Need the massive compression and reverb that make The Second Album JUMP off the turntable! BUT...we have to remember that the Fabs preferred mono. There are basslines and bass drum parts that are buried on stereo mixes. John used to say the US bastardizations drove them all nuts. I know I'll love this box, but pretty soon my CD players will be seeing more of With The Beatles than Meet The Beatles. Thank you, Capitol!

John Doherty: I can't say I am overly excited about this release but I can't knock it either. Let's face it, more people were exposed to the Beatles via the American releases then from the British counterparts. We are all reliving our initial introduction to the Beatles with this release. I'll be listening to them with a smile on my face, thinking about less complicated and simpler times when all that mattered was the music, not how it was mixed or how much echo are on the tracks.

Steve Solomons: If the British cd's can come out due the british vinyl lp's coming out first, so can the american cd's can also come out due to the american vinyl lp's coming out first. let the whole world decide the outcome of the upcoming boxset. p.s. i think there will be at least a few more boxsets coming out in time after the first boxset, at least 3-4 boxsets all together, after this one. i think all the beatles music from introducing the beatles all the way up to the sgt.pepper movie soundtrack album will be reissue and remastered in time !!!!! all beatles fans from around the world will love to see this take place in time !!!!!! also i wouldn't be shocked and surprise if all their british cd's be reissued and remastered. if that's the case i get everything-trust me.

Martin Nolan: I started listening to the Beatles at 11 when Got To Get You Into My Life was #1 for the entire summer on Newfoundland radio. While my favorite early record at the time was the Canadian Twist and Shout LP (I only wish that would come out on CD), I have very fond memories of those US albums the music and the covers. This release will be the highlight of my Christmas. Keep them coming.

Ben Okuly: I am what I consider a "second generation" Beatles fan, being 25 years old. My parents grew up with the Capitol versions of the Beatles records, and did not know any different. In fact, when I purchased With the Beatles on CD, with the famous cover, both my mother and father asked me where "I Want To Hold Your Hand" was since they had it on the album with the same picture on the cover as this one has. I think it's a neat idea that I can now own the same albums my parents had growing up. I can have the choice to listen to the albums in the British versions, or the American versions. Either way, I am looking forward to getting the chance to hear these when they are released next month. Keep up the excellent work on the website!

Ron Baker: The Capitol versions are the only ones I knew until I was in college...long after the Beatles disbanded. I bought import albums mainly as a curiosity. I prefer the running order of the Capitol albums...they seem more thematic entities. "Meet the Beatles" is a great introduction to the band. "Second Album" shows their take on rock and roll classics plus gives us a couple of hit singles..."Something New" had true stereo versions of the cuts that the United Artists soundtrack had in fake stereo and really did offer something new with more great rock and original tracks. "Beatles 65" was very well organized, but the stereo reprocessing of 'I Feel Fine' and 'She's a Woman' are unlistenable. The mono singles work better in this case. I can hardly wait for the next boxed set with "Rubber Soul"...to me the shining jewel in the Beatles crown.

Jack Possiel: I'm! buying the forthcoming box set so that I can have the songs that were (and are) so deeply ingrained in me the way I heard them for close to fifteen years. It's not entirely about nostalgia,it's about how my mind remembers them. Third or fourth generation fans who only grew up with the CD's can never understand that, and probably will find the box set a huge disappointment because it won't sound the way they grew up the music.

Claudio Dirani: I do want'em because it's part of their history. It was in America that the Beatlemania spreaded all over the four corners of the Planet and beyond. Plus, the American fans are responsible for the majority of their record's sales and also the Beatles history reached immesurable levels in the country. Getting new Beatles relases is also something important for the generations to come. The Beatles trademark gets a new breath everytime they are featured in the media - and it's a good move. The quality of their musical heritage should never die.

Bob Jones: It's not so much whether I want or don't want the Capitol LPs on CD. It's why now? There are so many other things fans have been waiting for and this set is not at the top of my list. How about the British catalog remastered first? How about the catalog remastered on SACD and DVD-A with 5.1, stereo, and mono mixes included? What about Hollywood bowl? How about Let It Be, Shea, or a Compilation of Videos on DVD? No, we get four of the American lps before all that. Why? If we ask that question we sound ungrateful. We should be happy they are releasing something that fans have asked for. When fans asked for the long version of Helter Skelter did we get it? NO! We are use to not getting what we ask for and buy whatever Apple gives us. I for one will buy and enjoy this release, but I can't help wondering when and if ever we will see the above list or for that matter a second volume of American LPs. Apple we're not getting any younger! Release this stuff and we will gratefully buy!

Shawn McCann: In short, I like the stereo versions of the songs. I was only 3 in 1964 - my brothers were teenagers and played the Beatles albums (mono only in our house) constantly. When I was old enough to start buying albums I picked up the stereo versions, partially because that's all that was available by the 70s. I then played the Beatles albums constantly. While I understand from an artistic standpoint why the original CDs of the first four albums were released in mono, I really like the stereo mixes of the early albums and am looking forward to hearing them again on CD.

John Davies: If they aren't released "officially" then you just leave it up to the bootleggers.

Michael Kudlacik: I'll sum up in short that I believe the legitimacy of the U.S. configurations of the Beatles albums resides in the memories of literally millions of fans who remember their music that way. That being said, I am a 35 year old fan that sought out the British albums at the age of 10 or so -- because I had learned through a visit to my first Beatlefest that they weren't just records with a different running order. I believed then, as I believe now, that the original British configurations of the Beatles catalog are superior because in almost every instance the music flows better and the audio fidelity (at least in the age of vinyl) is light years beyond the U.S. catalog. But where is the false start on "I'm looking through you." How about that weird open to "Help?" Or that cool mix of "I'm only sleeping" that I feel is SUPERIOR to the British one? Anybody else occasionally miss "I've just seen a face" on Rubber Soul? From the age of about 3 to the age of 10 - THAT was my education on the Beatles. And despite not listening to THOSE albums for around 20 years, I can still remember them and those different track sequences. I miss those records, and Capitol AND APPLE are not dishonest or underhanded or even cynical for offering to sell me what I am all too willing to buy. There is NO DEBATE HERE!! ... Fans, enjoy or do not enjoy. Choice is a wonderful thing! Personally, I look forward to the choice of hearing a REMIXED catalog (heresy!!) -- in multi-channel. Folks should give the Dylan stuff a listen - or the recent 5.1 mix of the Stones "Sympathy for the Devil." The remastered Anthology DVD's have only whetted by appetite for the whole catalog in glorious surround.

Rob C.: "Meet The Beatles" is the album that practically single handedly changed the face of Rock 'n Roll. Before "Meet the Beatles", singles were the driving force in the music biz. After that everything (and I mean EVERYTHING changed). Historically it should be released on CD. Plus, many of these tracks are being released for the first time on CD in stereo! Hello!! This really makes a difference on "Something New" and "Beatles '65".

winston: Because I want to hear and keep them in digital format. as a piece of history. whether they're good or not.One thing I worry is, after this Capitol Box release, we will have to wait longer for the first four Brtish Beatles CD to be remastered in stereo.Or may be forever...

Charles Carbon: I really don't see what all the debates are about! First of all, it's the 40th anniversary of the beatles in america, so why can't we have this as a sort of american birthday present? We didn't get much in 2002 for the UK anniversary! And this isn't a standard issue, it's special box set so it can't be confused with the UK catalogue anyway. Secondly, I don't know why people are complaining about mono and stereo mixes. They were released in both formats 40 years ago anyway. If one doesn't want to hear the stereo verson, go to the mono version, they're both on there! I'm excited about this release cause I finally get to hear them without hiss or pops and we finally get something to celebrate about, a new collector's item is being released in a box. I just hope my two cents makes sense, that's all!

Bob Samford: I want all the Beatle lps on cds from every country I have been collecting the so called boots for the last ten years and I think it is about time for Paul and Ringo to just give the fans everything they are used to hearing! Why give the money to the bootlegger???? thanks

Added Oct. 26, 2004

Mike G.: I was 14 years old in 1964 and waited outside the local record shop for every US release Beatles single and album. I would most certainly love to see ALL the American LPs reissued on cd. They are the sound track to my life. I have played them over and over again for over 38 years now and at the age of 52 it is very hard to hear the songs out of the order in which I have heard them over this past 38 years. For those of you who did not reach adolescence in America in the 1964/1966 time frame you can not possible imagine what I'm talking about. If you prefer the British editions then go and buy them but give old bastards such as me the option of hearing the Beatles the way WE grew up with them.

Elvis Aron Preston: My Memories of the Beatles are the American versions, I can hear a Beatles song and at the last note of the song I'm singing the next song from the Album from where it came, but with these English versions, I can't cause there not in the same order, I'm being cheated out of my Memories, because we don't have our versions, the English Adults have there Memories on CD's why can't we. Need My Beatles, not the English versions!!!!!

Frank Reynolds: Although I am only 27 years old, I grew up with my parent's original vinyl copies of US Beatles albums. It always makes me twitch or double take in a bad way when I hear the UK versions on CD because of the song order! I'm just in love with the way I heard them when I was 5 years old. Not to mention that "I'm Looking Through You" is missing the false starts on the UK version. To me, that has always been part of that song, and part of an album that drove me to become a musician myself. I'm also very used to hearing "I've Just Seen a Face" on that album, and it just throws off the flow to hear it in the UK CD format! We should at least be given the option of hearing these great albums in the format we are used to. Besides "1" the CD releases sound horrible anyway. They desparetly need to be remastered. I have seen two remasterings of The Yes catalog, as well as 24 bit remasters of many other things that sound awesome! If an underground band like King Krimson can afford to, and! care to, release their catalog in 24 bit form with restored packaging, than The Beatles deserve even more! After all, they were the greatest rock band in history. EMI, get it together and realize your company can make millions off such a deal!

William Jennings: think that the Beatles' catalouge has been heard and understood to the fullest and in light of it's place in music history, it is beyond what they personally want to happen with it. I think they have a duty to their fans and to music history to allow for the duplicity of release to be recognized in the future of the digital age... Also, No true "collection" is complete without the amercian releases however inferior some of them are. I personally own the British CDs and the American LPs, and may not purchase the american CDs were they available, but many people would. I like the Two-fer idea though, or a boxed set, because all of the albums would only take up half a cd or less. More for your money.

Jerry Donohue: What I miss is, The Jazz tracks in Hard Days Night such as the instrumental of And I love her The sitar version of "another hard days night' from HELP and like everyone else, the order of songs that I was used to and expect.

Doug Ferris: Lets get up to speed here, Beatle remasters are long overdue. With the advances in home audio over the past years and with 24bit remastering I feel remastering the Beatle catalogue is a no-brainer. I replaced all my vinyl with cd and am willing to buy the whole catalogue once again on an individual cd basis or as a box set.The box set must include all studio albums in stereo. Please no interviews on the cds, put all interviews and bonus cuts on a separate cd(s)I am 52 yrs of age so don't delay!

David Smith: As a completist, as well as a record collector, I feel that there are others like me who like to have the Capitol versions.Simply make them in limited form, much like EMI did in the early 80s when they re-released the British catalogue with mono versions. Most importantly,(EMI take note) Please reproduce the discs faithfully a la DCC's Beach Boys Pet Sounds, complete with Capitol white banner atop the LP with the "file under" moniker and the appropriate mono or stereo black circle.EMI needn't provide this fan any elaborate booklets(thus keeping costs down) Simply provide this fan the entire cover, front and rear, reproduced faithfully,and the disc to reflect the Capitol rainbow.Both mono and stereo versions would be too good to be true, but I'd settle for either. The only change I would prefer would be the absence of Dave Dexter's stereo remixes or other echo laden rechanneled versions. While I continue to wish, how about a butcher cover, again a la DCC's "Pet Sounds", SACD! mastering, and the choice of mono or stereo. It would give fans the thrill of a record buying experience, as close as returning to June 1966 as possible.If EMI misreads their customers wishes and desires, feeling that duplicate versions or repackaged material would not sell, they need only to pay heed to the collector market. I, like most fans would prefer a legitimate EMI product. However, if EMI does not feel it necessary, I'll seek the product from bootleggers. Thanks, David Brian Eric Smith: Well, like a lot of people have already stated, the american albums are the the ones that I remember growing up & being that they are a significant part of beatle history, they should be released for that reason alone. I personally would find the nostalgia of the american running orders & cover artwork enjoyable. However, The biggest reason for me IS the REVERB!!! Especially on the second album & beatles `65. To me, "I Feel Fine" & "She`s a Woman" have never sounded 'right' in their british configurations...even before there were CD's. Those two songs in particular sounded HUGE in the american versions. The guitar riff that opens I Feel Fine & repeats after The lead break used to sound as huge as the big ben. Now all we have on CD is a version that sounds dry like it's right there in a little room. I like the clarity of the english CD version but I think that is more due to the digital format than to the actual master. I think they should take the original american tapes & ! do only customary clean up & EQ procedures & release them as they are. We dont want further faking like sticking some digital reverb on the already released tracks. I also like the american "Thank You Girl" from the second album where there is not only reverb but also a few extra harmonica bits. While were on the subject, what about a release of the movie "A Hard Day`s Night" with the original soundtrack that can be found on the United Artist album. I seem to remember that the songs sounded just a little slower & lower in pitch as well as having single track vocals. For a sample of this, There's the original trailer for Hard Days Night at the very end of the VHS release of Help where the original film sound hasn't been altered. Overall as far as the release of the american albums is concerned, I think it's only a matter of time.

Larry Coviello: 1. When Capital first released the Beatle albums in MONO, those are the best mixes! The fake stereo mixes that came a little later plain outright SUCK!!! 2. I grew up with the American versions the song orders are still in my head. To me they're the best. 3. The Stones albums have been remixed and re-released, why not the Capital Beatle albums? There are more of them then the UK versions so they'll make more money! But please offer the MONO versions, they're better mixed and better sounding!!!

Daniel Ferris: I am twenty two years old and first heard the Beatles when my uncle bought me a vinyl copy of 'Yesterday and Today.' In high school I purchased every Beatles album on compact disc in the British format. While I like these albums I think it is important that the American versions be released because it was those albums that fueled American Beatlemania and also because those albums contain songs such as 'Matchbox' that are not found on the original British LPs.

Joe Silva Smith: Roughly the US market accounts for 2/3 of all Beatles cd sales. Then why not supply this market (67% of all sales) with the Capitol Versions? I'll bet my trousers that this will be a win-win situation. However I'd like to point out that UA soundtrack of A Hard day's Night should also be released

Kirby: I would love to see the US versions released. Much has been made about the so-called terrible Capitol versions, but I think that on some US albums they captured the times even better. For instance:
Meet The Beatles: Hands down, a MUCH better album than With The Beatles. Can anyone deny that "I Want To Hold Your Hand" followed by "I Saw Her Standing There" is the essence of early Beatles.
Rubber Soul: By adding "It's Only Love" & "I've Just Seen A Face" removing the 'electric' songs such as "Nowhere Man" and "Drive My Car", and eliminating the weak "What Goes On", one is left with a GREAT folk-rock album.
Beatles 65: I love the addition of "She's A Woman" and the reverb on "I Feel Fine" makes the song sound otherworldly, in a good way.
Magical Mystery Tour: Why shouldn't hits be added to the film score? The only complaint I have here is that the songs shouldn't have been seperated like Side A= film, Side B= hits. I would like to see them sequenced as one album.

Added Jan. 30, 2000

Patrick Smiley (PJS100@Prodigy.Net): Can't play a record while driving to work! Albums scratch easily and are usually hard to find. I would love to get a CD copy of their Love Songs album set! Get with the program Apple!

Pearl Cawley (bpnacawley@aol.com): I would love the Beatles' Capitol LPs to be released on CD as they were originally presented to American fans because those LPs with their contents heard in their "American" order so much more evocative of the original experience which meant so much to us die-hard fans. This is the way we as American fans first heard them, loved them and memorized them. ... Its a nostalgic thing!

No name: Capitol/EMI/Apple has to know this would mean more profit for them yet we have been reduced to buying these great titles on bootlegs.

Steve Guest (steveg@VSTA.COM): I liked the American album covers,as well the format.

Jeff Pillot (zapple9@aol.com): The "Capital" albums were great, sound and artwork! It's the way I grew up listening to the Beatles and loving their music ... If Apple won't give them to us, the bootleggers will!

Doug Warns (Dougwarns@aol.com): I'm one of those second generation fans that got into The Beatles in both the British and American formats. I like both. I feel that albums such as "Meet the Beatles" and Beatles 65' are better in running order than their British counterparts. Beatles for Sale on CD really needs to have the sound quality cleaned up. My cassette of Beatles 65' and Stereo LP of Beatles IV sound a lot better in overall tone than my "Beatles For Sale" CD. Some of those songs sound fuller with the extra reverb. I like the Capitol versions, but I respect the Beatles wishes. If anything I'd like to see the current CD's updated. Digital technology has improved since 1987.

Mike McGowan (mpmcg@monmouth.com): I like the stereo sound on the American albums. I also like the layout of songs. If these albums were to be put together and sold as two-on-one CD, the sales would go through the roof. I'm still waiting for "Love Songs" you come out on CD.

Nancy (n100@fuse.net): We want our Capital releases,we are in the USA not Great Britain,this is how we loved them then.....

Michael James Pickelhaupt: I believe that the British albums should be available in both mono and stereo.these were the way they were meant to be heard (song order,mixes,artwork,etc.). Let's see a mono sgt.pepper! Otherwise,lets not flood the market and confuse the younger fans.

Jeff Maas (ajaxjwm@webtv.com): Growing up with the American versions, they seem to form a better time line with the group. You don't get a couple of "heavy"songs along with a "poppy"number.Take for instance U.S.version of Rubber Soul. Is that not one of the best albums you've ever heard? I always felt that was their defining album, not "Pepper".

Christian Daniel Venegas Calderón (danielvenegas76@latinmail.com): Because I since am 6 years old I have liked the music of the Beatles. I would be enchanted by to have original versions of their music with a good sound.

Mitch Mitchell (mitchemi@baxter.com): I am 17 and a BIG fan of the FABS!! My dad has the "original" albums (Meet The Beatles, Beatles '65 etc.) and plays them once in awhile on his turntable. I can't believe I can't go out and buy CD's of these albums my dad bought 30 plus years ago!! ENOUGH!! Give US a choice!!!!!!

Jose Renato (jrad@barroco.com.br): The remixes are different. The covers are different. It´s cool.

Added June 1, 1999

Scott Unterberg (sunterberg@macromedia.com): As most of the folks responding are probably saying, its because for millions of folks, those were the versions we knew. We didn't have the UK versions, so for years, that is how we have known them. Its interesting to see so many bootlegs turn up of these albums now. Even more interesting is why Apple is so slow in re-releasing the entire catalogue remastered (or even remixed) in 24/96k. It blows my mind they have those shitty sounding CDs still out there! Clean 'em up, redither to 16 bit, clean up the artwork and packaging and they will make another zillion dollars and beatle freaks will weep with joy. Simple.

Brian M. Loflin (bloflin@dcmde.dla.mil): I grew up listening to them in this format and their release would give another alternative to listening to the greatest group ever! I still play the albums in their original U.S. form when Beatle fans come over to my home and would prefer to hear the American version. a Beatle Fan 4-ever!

Stanley Kantorowski (IDISM@aol.com): ......It was how I was first introduced to each and every album and I still want it that way!! I want the variety and choice.. American vs. British... I like the order of songs, the mixes, ect.. dont even remaster!! just use the LP equalized tapes...they are probably warmer sounding anyway..I believe the American LPS should be released with both stereo & mono versions combined since the running time of each LP was very short!!! Then it wouldn't seem like such a rip off!! Sure I'd buy them seperately..but I'd be none too happy... the combo solution would make the public feel that they we're getting their money's worth.. Speaking of getting your moneys worth.. How about releasing the CD's in a gatefold album style...Artwork full blown.. something to hold in your hands!!! I know we'd buy it!!

Michael Maccarrone (Echodcat2@aol.com): Instinctively..when i listen to a U.S. Beatles record......I always know what song is coming next.....These "albums" ("Meet the Beatles," "Second Album," "Something New," even "The Beatles Story," etc, are the records that "we" grew up with.....reading the liner notes to the "Meet the Beatles" album........these are all treasured memories.....the Beatles as far as music fans themselves should realize the importance of one's memories with music...Yes i own mutiple copies of the U.S.LP's (anal retentive me is collecting the label variations).......and yes i would buy the American versions on CD, as I would also buy the first four British CD's in stereo (yes we all, including George Martin, have heard their exquisite sound), not forgetting "Rarities," "Rock & Roll Music," "Hollywood Bowl," "Get Back".....hell........Release every damn second of studio time and i will buy it......not to mention all the "others" , who like myself will also purchase them.........I will let you decide with this last thought.......how long has it been since you heard the false start on "I've Just Seen A Face" ?

Mike Allen (MAllen6509@aol.com): As many others have stated, I would like the US versions on CD only because I am a completeist. Now, whether or not the average fan wold find them appealing is another point. I would want them for the longer "I'll Cry Instead", the false start "I'm Looking Through You", etc. Then again, I would also like the mono versions of Sgt. Pepper and the White Album and other interesting foreign mixes to appear someday.

Kevin (Rubbersoled@usit.net): Of course I would like them to be released! It's The Beatles!!! What's not to like?

Joe Nolte (joethelast@msn.com): Contrary to Sir George Martin's assertions, only "Please Please Me" and "With the Beatles" were recorded/released in "two track", i.e. vocals on 1 side, most of the instruments on the other. "A Hard Day's Night" was released in true stereo, and "Beatles For Sale" was not only true full dimensional stereo but was clearly INTENTED to be released as such, since a good deal of care clearly went into the stereo mixes (I just played my stereo "Beatles '65" and "Beatles VI vinyl albums to make sure). It is indefensible and a crime that there are fans out there who haven't heard the Beatles properly. Release it all!

Added May 1, 1999

Philip Schultz (PSchultz@JCPenney.com): I grew up with "Meet the Beatles", etc. These American versions, although not endorsed by the Beatles, had a profound influence on my musical development. Quite simply, the song formats on "The Beatles Second Album" and "Beatles VI" are among the best Rock 'n Roll albums ever made.

Steve Hinders (etienne1@primenet.com): I have all the U.S. albums and all the U.K. released CDs. I love both. Yes, I'd like to see Apple release those "Dave Dexter enhanced" albums.Because I grew up on those releases there is still a real emotional tug when I play them.

Eliot Wien (EWien@ChoiceCo.com): I'm currently a part time manager at Colony records in New York City and I always get requests for the original Capitol and Apple CD's.The one most requested is the Hey Jude album on CD, or also known as The Beatles Again. They should be packaged with original cover art and in mini cardboard cases-similar to the Beach Boys Japanese reissues.

Kevin Chaple (gchaple@net1plus.com): One word- completists. The majority of Beatles fans, at least as far as I know, are completists and will get everything out there. Most of us have all the albums, but still have the red and blue albums, as well. I'd like to have the same songs on different albums and in different orders. I don't really see why not. I wouldn't mind paying $13 for CDs with songs I already have. No biggie.

Billy Shears (e2727@hotmail.com): I think that Capitol should release the Beatle albums on CD because it's a part of Beatles history.

Brian O'Marra (btomarra@aol.com): I find it interesting that the picture of the Rubber Soul cover used for the UK configuration was from the American LP. It would be a nice reason to remaster the catalog and give the fans a fresh look at the Beatles' music. If EMI were to consider it(which I doubt) they you could use clear trays, duplicate the back cover as the inlay picture, have the "New Improved Full Dimenional Stereo" logo down the left side flanking the booklet. Also, have the CDs be Capitol rainbow swirl picture discs. Witness the success with the Byrds remasters. Finally, ABKCO issued the Rolling Stones catalog in the US format.

Andy Timmons (timstone@nkn.net): It's the way we grew up with them!! Listen to the difference in soud, especially on "Tell Me Why"!!! The added compression and reverb(NOT ECHO) adds considerably to the energy of the records!!! I bought the entire bootleg series and would buy the entire collection again if re-released by Apple. Thanks so much for providing this forum!!!!!

Helio K. Takahashi (takahashi.bioq@epm.br): Long ago I wrote my toughts about the release of US versions of Beatles albums. I didn't change my mind, and the Anthology series are here to show that Apple's judgment is somewhat inconsistent with Beatles reality. After all Apple took some 6-7 years to understand that boots in CD format were items eagerly wanted by casual fans as well as hard core fans. I believe the very same rationale can be applied regarding the Apple and US Capitol versions. I understand that The Beatles made clear that they didn't want any change in their albums or songs (they were afraid that some "Buddy Holly fan producer" would change dramatically theur ouevre) but that did happen already. George Martin remixed many songs in "Love Songs," "Ballads," "R&R Music," many songs, e.g., "Norwegian Wood," "Girl" are much better than their counterparts in Rubber Soul. In the meantime Apple keeps on thinking what to do while drinking some wine, listening outtakes not realeased in Anthology , bootleggers are supplying the market with the Capitol versions. Particularly I don't care about this issue as far the bootleggers do provide CDs with pristine sonic quality, superb packaging and fair prices. Hey Paul, George, Ringo & The Estate Of John Lennon: Apple keeps screwing you guys..give us the official versions of US editions of Beatles albums, in vinyl and cd format (remasterized).

Mike Long (Beatles999@aol.com): They will make a hell of alot of money. End of story.

James Sievers (jsievers@netnitco.net): Bring them out in stereo (early albums).

Joe Marine (joetaryn@msn.com): I feel pretty much the same way about the fact that is what I grew up listening to, in fact even my Mother, when she hears a song, she starts to sing the next one as it appeared on the Capitol versions, but is shocked, or thinks that she got it wrong, when a different song comes on. That isn't a great reason to release the Capitol versions, but a good example of the impact that they had on us as Beatlefans and even mom, that's how much I played them, that she knows the running order of them, that's bad ! I also bought the bootlegs and keep them in my car CD changer mostly and every once in awhile, play the early mono British CD's. I loved that you can turn one channel off and remove the vocals, so you could sing along with the instruments ( you became a Beatle, early version of Karoake) or if you were a musician, turn off the instruments and play along with the vocals, it was great, I still do that. Hey if we bought up outtakes of songs in the Anthology sets, why not ! Give us the CD's that changed us and kept us life long BEATLES FANS ! ! ! ! !

Added April 25, 1999

Layne Cannon (lcannon@lsu.edu): I grew up in the U.S. during the 60's and the Capitol releases were the way in which I first experienced The Beatles. Even now, when I hear a Beatles song, I find myself at the end of the song expecting the next song to be according to the Capitol LP's. Often it's something different, which is a bit jarring. It would be great to hear the songs on CD as I originally heard them. In some cases, the U.S. song combinations were (in my opinion) better than the original UK configurations. For example, I like "Yesterday and Today" better than the UK "Revolver".

John F. Crowley (bonaire@pacifier.com): Not all of them, just "Help!" so we can enjoy the excellent soundtrack music from Ken Thorne and others. And anyway, isn't "Magical Mystery Tour" the US release?

Matt Crawford (smattc@yahoo.com): Some of the recordings are different. There is a meaner more distinct guitar on my American release of "Money". The harmaonica solo at the end of "Thank You Girl". Lennon messing up the words on "Please Please Me". The list goes on. Plus I do miss the songs in the order I first heard them.

Terrence Lipinski (tntvideo@msn.com): I must admit that if in fact you are a "REAL" American Beatle fan then the Lps and Singles as they came out as hits are well the way we heard them! Don't give me this Echo Shit either! I loved the tunes in Stereo with the added Reverb! THEY KICKED ASS then and on CD THEY WOULD REALLY KICK ASS! I would also like to hear the A Hard Day's Night" Soundtrack tunes in STEREO and not Mono like the British LP! Hey George Martin! Remember "Ringo's Theme" THIS BOY, I even bought the 45 when it came out but it sounded so much better in stereo on the Soundtrack LP! In short ya we got reamed here in the states up until the Sgt Pepper LP but so what! Hey Don't forget about the extra LP's that came out after Let it Be! Live at the Hollywood Bowl plus others like Rarities!! Please trust me they will sell like hot cakes! Nuff Said!!! P.S. And I will buy them all as well as my friends will too!

Mike P. Brisky (MPB14@ yahoo.com): #1, I love the "ping pong" stereo. #2,I consider the LPs to be "historical" documents that should be available. #3, They'd sell like hotcakes, Capitol surely must realize that!! #4, I actually love the instrumentals that were on the American LPs. #5 They should be released as two-fers, after all, the bootleggers figured that out, and they sold them like hotcakes!

John L.Richards (wb8dgn@earthlink.net): I'd like to hear the American albums on CD....the songs in each album are still etched in my mind in the order that they were on those albums!!

Bruce Edward Dahleen (stratattacker@yahoo.com): I would like to hear the albums the way I remember hearing them when I bought them as a kid. It sure would be nice to hear them that way in digital form.

Vinícius Tavares (vtavares@secrel.com.br): The Capitol LPs are official items in the Beatles' collection like the EMI ones. Moreover, I believe that the releasing of these records on CD will allow people from other countries to know them and the different versions of songs like "I'll Cry Instead", "Help'" and "Thank You Girl" will amaze fans all over the world. One more advantage is that we will have the chance to listen to all the songs in stereo versions, relieving us from being forced to listen to those awful mono versions in the first four EMI CDs. But, to the enjoyment be complete, the American records must be released on CD exactly equal to the LPs, including the front and back covers, in order to keep the authenticity.

Timothy Donovan (TDon959197): For the reasons stated on your cover letter. I grew up with the American versions and would appreciate listening to them again,especially "Meet The Beatles". It seems to me that their would be a profitable market and since Michael Jackson has already compromised the tunes by selling them to the commercialist. What's the harm?

Tony Michaels (tonywlcy@westol.com): I host a weekly radio show that features the music of the 50s, 60s and 70s. The Beatles are by far the most requested group. Many times when listeners call in, they ask me why they can't find CDs of the original Capitol albums. (It must be noted also, that callers have asked me about the VJ album "Introducing The Beatles", too. I've noted that most of these listeners calling in asking about the original U.S. albums are first generation fans. It's simple why this is happening: these fans grew up with "Meet", "Second", "Something New", etc. Purely from a marketing standpoint, I think Capitol would not only fill a "niche" with Beatles fans, but I think they'd make a lot of money!!! It could be a 1999 marketing campaign to celebrate the Beatles 35th anniversary of of coming to the U.S. What better way to celebrate than with the original Capitol albums on CD! Also, I've talked to many record stores about the subject of releasing CDs of the original Capitol LPs and they've all mentioned the same stories of confused shoppers. It's interesting, because they say that many times the people asking for these CDs are passing up purchasing the British configurations currently available. Capitol should do them in stereo with the original covers, liner notes & Capitol dome/ rainbow label. Added bonus: new liner notes about the LPs history (dates, charts, etc) & pictures of the covers of any singles released from that particular LP. I'm sure many of you reading this are familiar with the Japanese boots that were released in limited quantities a few years back. The Japanese releases featured nice reproductions of not only the original Capitol LPs, but also beautiful repros of the Capitol label on the CDs! The slip cover to these CDs pictured Beatles LPs. The sound quality was excellent. The Capitol versions (some collectors refer to this as the "wet Capitol mixes") were used. I believe that if Capitol did something like the Japanese boots, the re-marketing of the Capitol LPs on CD would be a success on two levels: 1. Filling a niche with the first generation fans. 2. Filling a demand for stereo versions of this material. (They could also give new fans of the group a chance to experience what it was like for the first generation of fans to listen to these LPs.) Thanks for providing a forum to discuss this!!!

Gary Tyler (Gtyler@webtv.net): I definitely think that the U.S. LPs need a CD reissue. It's long overdue. We've had the UK catalog for 12 years now, and it's we're bored with them! Let's hear the LPs as they were originally released hear in the U.S., and as we all remember them. Sure, the UK recordings are superior in quality, but that's not what's important = it's the memories that the U.S. LPs give us American Beatles fans. Why not release them as a limited or deluxe package, like the EP's and Singles boxed sets? The people who really want them will buy them anyway. There are many bootleg versions of these LPs on CD, but they are always a ripoff and inconsistent in sound quality, not to mention a crime against the Beatles!

Robert A Coscia (Guitarman@aol.com): As a Beatlefan in the '60s and living in the U.S., all I had access to was U.S. releases. I liked the artwork and the songs and I was used to the order or sequence of songs. Not that I was not pleased when the British versions were released on CD, I just think that as a Beatlefan from the very begining it would be nice to have the U.S. versions on CD or even on LP again.

Jim Widi (jimwidi@execpc.com): There should be that choice if that's what some fans want. Why EMI would not allow that choice to exist for a potential market is beyond me. In some cases, the American song order versions of the Beatles albums were, I thought, better (i.e. "Rubber Soul," "Magical Mystery Tour"). Mark Lewisohn's opinion is that the British song order versions are what the Beatles themselves heard and, presumably, sign-off on. But, it is unclear whether the Beatles were always in the Abbey Road studios when the final mixdowns, with some good artistic license, were being performed by George Martin and his engineering staff (see dates August 21 and 25, 1969 in Mark Lewisohn's book "The Beatles Recording Sessions", as an example).

Ted Ybarra (loveisreal@webtv.com): Just like you said, we as Americans were brought up with the Capitol version of the Beatles. I loved those albums "Beatles VI," "Something New," great stuff. The Beatles hopefully will get off their rockers and let us Americans enjoy memories of what was real to us at the time. Whats the big deal? Everybody knows the English versions are what they wanted, fine, go listen; but let us at least have choice. I'm sure lots of Americans would buy them. I really, really hope someday they give in and let us enjoy a litlle happiness.

Craig Kellam (ckellam315@aol.com): Some of the songs aren't on the British albums. Ethan Reilly (papa_abba@yahoo.com): Personal nostalgia.

Added May 25, 1998

John Cunningham (jlc@tidepool.com): The U.S. releases were what I grew up with. I like the music in that order. Until they are released that way, I'll have to be satisfied with recording the albums on my Mini-Disc the way I remember them. Whoever has the rights should want the money this nostalga can create.

John McLallen: There is nothing like the opening secret agent music that introduces "Help!" Even the Beatles cartoon show used this intro to their second season.

Michael Gaworecki (MickyG98@aol.com): I'm used to hearing the songs in the order of the old U.S. albums. It would be nice to hear the first few albums digitally in stereo too. Don't forget the different versions of some of the songs (the longer "I'll Cry Instead" or the false beginning to "I'm Looking Through You," etc.).

Terry Delph (Terry_Delph@ Kpt.k12.tn.us): I want them on CD for the same reason anyone interested in making a buck would want to create them in CD format..........I'll buy them.:).

Mark J. Carvell (Lenono9@aol.com): After struggling with the horrid re-releases from Capitol-EMI in the 70's, ANYTHING in the way of a new release would be apprecialted. "The Beatles Rock 'n Roll Music", "The Beatles' Love Songs", etc were the only thing the powers that be could find to release, whilst the vaults were filled with the terrific outtakes that made up the Anthology series. At this point, instead of yet another re-release, i.e. "The Lennon Legend", the American releases would be a breath of fresh air.

Jim Brady (brady@2xtreme.net): There are legitimate alternate mixes on these albums, and for many U.S. fans these were what they grew up with. I think the U.S. albums should be released on CD, at least as a limited edition if nothing else.

Added May 3, 1998

Andy Moore (spudnuto@webtv.net): I have thought the same thing for a long time. Twofers all in stereo would be nice...."Meet the Beatles," "Second Album," "'65," "Beatles 6" and so on. "Hard Day's Night" and "Help!" should go together to keep all film music on one CD. "Hollywood Bowl" oughta come out too.

Laura Haralson: Yeah, why not? I probably would buy 'em. I too dig that "fake stereo" sound. Obviously I'm into it for the sentimental value. "Yesterday And Today" definitely should be the Butcher Cover. No, I'm not into these "twofer" CDs. Ruins the continuity for me. So yeah, let's release "Meet The Beatles", "Hey Jude", and of course "The Hollywood Bowl" on CD.

Mooseckman (Mooseckman@aol.com): If you've ever heard the U.S. releases of the albums in their ORIGINAL format, you'd realize that the first time you heard ANYTHING on those L.P.'s,it was in MONO,because they were not released in stereo until months after their original U.S. release date. Still, it would be the best investment that Capitol records has ever made! Furthermore,if they were to be released,they would have to have all the original artwork, playlist and so on.The most original idea that Capitol Records could come out with is to print the original CAPITOL label(i.e. the black label with the rainbow swirl ring......remember!) on the face of the disc. True,the early recordings are available in mono,but how many people have a copy of SGT.PEPPERS in mono? It would be nice,however,to own clean copies of the early recordings in stereo,so therfore, I too agree with the many in search of the twofer disc format. All around,a very strong YES,LET'S HAVE 'EM PLEASE.

Sean Maguire (SMag315252@aol.com): I like the idea, and I'd favor doing two lp's onto one CD.

Jim L Dickinson (MRAD12A@prodigy.com): I grew up in the USA, not England, so those albums (which I still have and still play now and then) are what I remember. I had never heard the British versions until I bought my CD's in 1987 when they came out. I have fond memories of those song line ups. The LP "Yesterday and Today" is like a mini greatest hits, just like the Hey Jude LP. I see no reason why they can't do a limited edition with a special packaging and just release them in the U.S. only. If it's up to Apple and the Beatles, then I don't think it will ever get done. (Editor's note: It is.) I seem to remember the reason they did the Butcher cover was in a protest of Capitol and the U.S. albums. So don't get your hopes up. I'd buy them and if you don't want them then don't buy them.

Chris Lovallo (clovallo@snet.net): I say why not? Go for it! American "HELP!," "Rubber Soul," "Hey Jude," "Rock & Roll Music" and "Rarities" would be among my favorites. The Beatles are the greatest rock band ever in my opinion.

SCthepygmy@aol.com: I bought the bootlegs of American LPs on CD and they did bring back a flood of great memories. Being an avid fan since "From Me to You" was heard in Louisville, KY., I've collected mostly American vinyl, then British vinyl. After seeing how many different versions of sleeves, etc. there were in the world, I concentrated on getting the American mono and stereo versions. With these getting harder and harder to find, I bought a DAT cassette recorder and made my own cds of American (mono) records. I've also CD'd the first four British albums in stereo and the next 5 British albums in mono. This will complete my personal collection of ALL mono and stereo mixes that were released in the UK and US. My project i'm working on now is listening to all versions to find differences (besides the heavy echo) in mixing, which i've filled a ninety and sixty minute tape so far ! I was going to send a copy to michel jackson, the owner of the Beatles copyrights!

Loretta Murphy (swtloret@sunlink.net): The U.S. albums must be released! And while we're talking remastering...how about "Hey, Jude"? The market is there...enough of us want those albums in compact disc...yes, it's true, Capitol didn't do justice to the recordings, but we grew up on those tracks and I'd personally want them in my collection along side the British releases. Look at the success of Anthology...Beatles fans want every memory we can to keep the music alive. Strawberry Fields, Forever...

Joey Oddo: After reading all the pro responses and then reading all the pro responses and then reading all the no responses, I can understand both sides. As an artist, I can appreciate The Beatles wanting their albums to be preserved for future generations in one standard format - the one which they originally envisioned (the British configurations.) However, I heard an interview given by John Lennon when the "red and blue" albums came out which basically stated that the only mixes that were supervised and approved by The Beatles were the mono mixes. Even all the way up to the single version of "Revolution!" So, even though the stereo versions of "Sgt. Pepper..." and "The Beatles" (White Album) seem to make more sense to those who grew up listening to them (you get used to things like placement of animal sounds, boosted guitar licks, and smoother transitions; e.g "Good Morning, Good Morning" into "SPLHCB (reprise)) that's not the way The Beatles wanted us to hear those albums. George Martin even said they considered releasing "Sgt. Pepper..." on CD only in mono, but he didn't feel like dealing with the uproar it would invoke. On top of that, "Help" and "Rubber Soul" were remixed for CD. So, they essential can't even use the argument I just gave, because the versions released on CD were not the same versions approved by The Beatles. That having been said, I've been a Beatles fan since I was seven. My favorite "Beatles albums" tend not to even be albums, but COMPILATIONS. "Hey Jude", "Yesterday and Today", "Beatles VI", "Magical Mystery Tour", and especially "Rock and Roll Music" were the ones I listened to most frequently. I think the idea of grafting the singles on to the American albums made them a little more listenable. I think these configurations are very important to a lot of Beatles fans and they should be made available. I even compiled my own version of "The Beatles" which omits 13 of the original tracks in favor of "Lady Madonna", "Hey Jude" and "Revolution", so I'm in favor of butchering.

RPeter2682@aol.com: While I agree with the Beatles that Capital should not have tampered with their albums, the fact is they did and this is part of history. I still have three Capital releases and the U.A. soundtrack of "A Hard Day's Night" (real trash) after 35 years. My argument for CD release of the U.S. versions is for songs like "This Boy," "Roll Over Beethoven," "Long Tall Sally" and "I Call Your Name," which I can't find on any of the EMI releases. Even though my old vinyl LP's are still in pretty good shape, I'd like those to hear those songs again on CD quality. Where can I find news regarding CD availability of some of these songs?

Eric Helgeson (eric@nera.no): Although I am not too familiar with the American Beatle releases (er, I have "AHDN," "Help!" and "Revolver" on Capitol as well as Parlophone), and the albums therefore are not of particularily sentimental value for myself, I think the Capitol albums should be released in a boxed set on CD, for the following reasons: 1) There are tracks not available on the British CD's (or on any CD's). Also alternate versions are interesting to hear. It makes a nice variation sometimes. 2) They are interesting historically, as the reverb versions are what made the Beatles big in the US, and therefore elsewhere. 3) It would be a good opportunity to release many of the early songs in stereo. 4) The album covers are (in most cases) totally different, and therefore interesting unto themselves. "Yesterday and Today" may be re-released w/reversible or two seperate covers. That would be cool. 5) The released boxed set may be a limited edition, making a great collectable. 6) To make this extra interesting, bonus tracks may be added, or a bonus CD containing all the songs the beatles "gave away", or "The Family Way", or something. Added tracks may include the Beatles commenting on those particular releases, how they came up with the songs, hoe it pisses them off that Capitol did what they did to their albums (I doubt this would be included) etc. 7) The boxed set may be titled to celebrate and reflect on - "Beatlemania", with stories documented, like when AHDN was being filmed, a member of the crew told recently, 2.000 fans came out of nowhere, and the screaming was so intense that one of the crew members teeth cracked from the pitch alone and he had to go to the dentist. Or, how in Australia 500.000 people came to catch a glimse of the Beatles. There are some unbelievable stories from that time. It will probably never be matched by anybody, and should be well documented together with the release of an album for new and future generations. 8) Maybe other American releases may be included to make it even more interesting, like, "Hear the Beatles Tell All" (non-Capitol, but I don't know who owns the rights today), or compilations like "Reel Music," or the rare EMI "Solo Beatles" album. I hope you, in collecting these comments from people, voice some of these opinions to Capitol, so they are heard. I really think there are some good ideas here. The good thing about the Beatles is that you can never really drown the market. I know I would buy it!

Added Feb. 1, 1998

SCthepygmy@aol.com: I bought the bootlegs of American lps on CD and they did bring back a flood of great memories. Being an avid fan since "From Me to You" was heard in Louisville, KY., I've collected mostly American vinyl, then British vinyl. After seeing how many different versions of sleeves, etc. there were in the world, I concentrated on getting the American mono and stereo versions. My project now is listening to all versions to find differences (besides the heavy echo) in mixing, and I've filled a 90- and a 60-minute tape so far!

Added Jan. 28, 1998

matt sondag (MACCA01@aol.com): I must say I really am only in favor of re-releasing the U.S. albums on CD if it is done right.  It would really be a waste of time and money if they were just to reconfigure the U.K. versions into the U.S. playing order.  If they chose to re-release the U.S. versions with all the original U.S. mixes in both mono and stereo (both on the same disc) then I am in favor of it.  If they were to do it, it would be best if they were available only either as a box set or individually as limited edition releases.    Since it is probably very unlikely the U.S. albums will ever be released on CD, I would also support the release of the first 4 Beatles CD's in stereo and all the CD's from "Help!" through the White Album in mono.

   Added Jan. 18, 1998

Brandt Heisner (heisner@arkansas.net): Without the U.S. versions on CD we can't hear the instrumental film music from AHDN and "Help!"  Sure, there are a lot of people who didn't want to hear that anyway, but I grew up with it and I miss it!

  Bruce Benham(security@slsa.sa.gov.au): Hi, I thought I'd put my two cents worth in the argument of should the U.S versions of Beatle albums be released or not. I believe these albums should be made commercially available. The American public grew up on these versions, and they are the ones that sound "right", just as the Australian (British) releases sound right to me. It wound also be a marketing coup as Apple would sell twice the cds. Personally I would like to see commercial mono releases of "Revolver" (British,because it has more songs), "Sgt Pepper" and the "White Album". By commercially releasing all these albums Apple would be shifting the profits away from the pirates and bootleggers to their own pockets, in just the same way the Anthology series did. It would seem to me somebody doesn't want to spend the money on remastering the tapes to disc, however surely the profits from sales would outweigh any outlay. The argument of EMI vs Capitol should be laid to rest and the public's wants be taken more seriously. Ok, Capitol changed the British releases, added bits, took out bits, etc, but EMI also sent different takes of a couple of songs thus adding to it. It should also be remembered that Capitol records made the Beatles big in the States, not EMI, Swan, Tollie or VJ. Capitol had to react to the Beatles, but they marketed and sold them according to the market at the time. Capitol tried to ignore them for as long as possible only to protect the local talent, for that I admire them. That is a quality I'd like to see adopted here in Australia. So should the U.S versions be released? Of course. It's common sense.

girly(bat@r-v.net): Dear  Sirs: I would buy those cds! Especially the mono ones. Sgt. Pepper's pops to mind as one in mono that is different from the stereo mix. Vote me YES!

wb1@mail.mco.bellsouth.net: U.S. versions pro.

Ed Stephens (CYBERMOOSE@webtv.net): Yes,I would like to see CD versions of the U.S Beatles albums in their much reproached "fake stereo" sound as George Martin put it for nostalgic reasons. It would be nice to see them issued as two-fers since CDs carry so much more music than the original LPs did.

Newrick39@aol.com: Pro.

Jo Ann Blevins (jblevins@bankswith.apollotrust.com): I think that Capitol / EMI should definitely re-release the old U.S. albums.  First of all, they could put the mono & stereo versions of the albums in one package, since the early albums are short and Capitol albums are even shorter.  Second, the Beatles digitally remastered catalog could be upgraded, since 1987's remastering sounds horribly flat.  A lot of good could come from the release of these albums and Capitol / EMI can't deny that they'd make a LOT of money from it too.

Added Nov. 15, 1997

SK8RJOE195@aol.com: I think they should release them on CD or whatever. I think they should because I am only 14 years old and I can't even come close to having the money to buy the records. (I've been searching flea markets for anything! ) and all the tapes that are at music stores are all the same albums in every store and the covers look stupid because they are all taped up w/ ugly puke brown color. Please help with this predicament.

Beatle4U1@aol.com: I believe the U.S. versions should come out on CD just on the fact that they're different. Thanks.

Dave McKay (music@fl.net.au): Yes, provided that: one, the price is right (two for one would be nice ... spare a thought for the Aussies who pay almost double the prices Americans pay for CDs. A US CD at $13 or so in your money costs $30 in ours, which is still about $27 of your money!); two, the CDs are 2 for ones. Beatles records as CDs are too short! And the U.S. ones were even shorter.

Bruce Blank (BruceBl@webtv.net): How about re-releasing the early tracks in any format, but in stereo?  I know it is artificial, but the albums still sound better than the so-called superior sounding CD's.

Peprland17@aol.com: Are there plans to release the U.S. albums on CD? I think it's a pretty good idea. I'd buy them.

Rusty Schrader (schrader.rusty@mcleodusa.net): I'm in favor of re-releasing the American CD's. It's more a nostalgia thing with me. These are the albums I grew up with. If they were ever to be released I would opt for a limited distribution, though. The fact of the matter is, these albums distort the impact of the albums. "Yesterday and Today" may have a special place in Beatles lore, but come on! It was a rotten attempt at squeezing an extra album out of the Fabs and it doesn't have the feel of "Rubber Soul" or "Revolver." The two albums it was culled from. However, there are a few rarities that made it on to American releases that are available nowhere else. "I'm Looking Through You" is a great example. Or "Thank You Girl" on "The Beatles Second Album." There'e my two cents.

Joon Kim (jkim@mail.monmouth.com): In favor. For purity's sake, we already have the original UK releases that were blessed with The Beatles' approval. However, it would be nice to get the US versions on CD, for sentimental value. After all, I cut my teeth on those old US vinyl LPs ("Apple logo" then back to the "Capitol logo"), playing them over and over on pathetic record players, all those years ago. The magic in the songs is as strong today as they were, all those years ago.

Added Aug. 30, 1997

GDP (pacer@lodinet.com): It is about time Capitol LP's are put on cd format. To complete my collection. Just look at the $$$$$$$ someone could be making if this were finally a reality. I'd be first in line to purchase "A Hard Day's Night," "Something New," "Second Album," "Beatles VI" and "Beatles '65." Please,Please,Please,Please,Please,Please,Please,Please ME!

James Harrer: Very good idea, provided that some people help remind EMI that "The Beatles at the Hollywood Bowl" hasn't been reissued on CD, any more than the 1994 promised last Badfinger/Apple release ("Ass"-SW 3411) has. Was in UK, though!

Added June 4, 1997

Lance Goldsberry (golds001@metvax.metro.msus.edu): I believe Capitol should release the American Beatle albums on CD. I know that the Fabs themselves nixed the idea because they feel their 60's albums were "butchered" by Capitol. But many of us Americans grew up with the American versions. I am 37 and in the '70's purchased the American Beatle albums and literally played them until they wore out. My brother and sisters and I all sang along with these records at the top of our lungs. Perhaps Capitol could respect the Fabs' wishes and satisfy the fan demand by releasing "two-fer" American version Beatle CDs for a limited time only. I never understood why Capitol did not release the "Hollywood Bowl" on CD or the Beatles' "Twenty Greatest Hits." Those records were also released in the UK and "Hollywood Bowl" is an excellent piece of Beatle history. Thank you John, Paul, George and Ringo for all of the marvelous music you have left for us.

Dale Sinner (minjok39@soback.kornet.nm.kr): For audiophile lovers of 60's rock n roll, the search for better sound quality never ceases. Quite frankly, the mono British versions of the first four Beatles albums stink. Mono has some kind of compression effect on the mid-range that makes the music sound tinny and awful. I don't want to get into a "how the music was originally intended/recorded" etc. discussion. I just want better sound quality and the stereo versions have it. Even Japanese boots mastered off of record albums sound better than the legit mono releases, so a new series of Beatles CD's mastered from the U.S. stereo master tapes could conceivably sound better than the EMI releases. I know the echo on some songs was awful, but so much of the catalog from '64 through mid-65 (US "A Hard Day's Night" through "Beatles VI") sounds so much better in stereo that it's worth it.

John Byers (franb@istar.ca@istar.ca): While i agree that the Beatles prefered the original Britsh releases, I would like to see Capitol put out the American versions on CD with 2 LPs per disc. The booklets should contain all the original artwork and the discs could also include bonus tracks, interviews, or other promo material we now is still in the vaults. These discs were a big part of North American Beatles fans lives, and do contain rare mixes that belong in any fan's collection! How about a Canadian disc of the "Twist and Shout" and "Long Tall Sally" LPs too?

Jeff Partyka (jpartyka1@juno.com): I am strongly in favor of Apple/EMI releasing the U.S. Beatles albums on compact disc. My primary reason is that it would be a fabulous opportunity to finally make the songs from the first four British albums available in high-fidelity stereo for the first time on U.S. CD's. Stereo discs of "Meet the Beatles," "Beatles '65," and "Beatles VI," and the other early American albums, would make wonderful companion discs for the mono early-period discs currently available. In addition, I'm one of those folks who grew up listening to the American vinyl albums, and I love them! I sincerely hope they're made available on compact disc in the United States. Rich Hall: As you said, we all grew up with those albums... I particularly love "Beatles '65" (the early Beatles at their peak), and "Rubber Soul," which was much more of a folk-rock album (a la Dylan & the Byrds)... I can't stand to listen to the British version, which is a jumble of styles ('What Goes On?' just doesn't fit). I would gladly buy the CD's if and when... Keep us posted!

DavidCyb@aol.com: How neat would it be to finally be able too own my very own BUTCHER COVER---Even if it is Digital.....My Vote is pro.

anco: I am a 15 year old girl from Greece and I love the BEATLES madly. I have already bought their CDs except the U.S. versions. I think it's a good idea and I would really like to have ALL their albums. Unfortunately, the only album I have is "Meet the Beatles," which my uncle brought from America many years ago. Here, in Greece, many young girls and boys love the Beatles and listen to their lovely music. We would be very happy to be able to buy all the records of the Beatles.

Carol Gladden: I really miss the "James Bond" intro to the American version of "Help!" I likes the added instrumentals, too. Would love to have that American version on CD, as well as some others. Love your web site!!!

Roberta Dunn (dunn@WILLAPABAY.ORG): I know I'm way late with this, But...yes, the U.S. albums should be released on CD. At least we could get the early recordings in stereo. I'd also like to have a copy of the "Hollywood Bowl" concert on CD, "Baby's In Black" sounds great on the "Real Love" EP!

JKWilbury@aol.com: I believe the American albums should be released, at least the "Live At The Hollywood Bowl" I wasn't around then, but I think it'd be neat hearing what sounds like new versions.

Added April 2, 1997

GLSB (GLSB@prodigy.net): I have often thought of the possibility of releasing the U.S. versions on CD. I have to say that it would be interesting because they are different. Also, you are right, Beatle fans in America grew up listening to these versions. In adddition, new generations of fans who discovered the Beatles post-vinyl could be exposed to the U.S. albums for the first time.

Cupleader@aol.com: Some people on here think the orig. Beatles discs should come out in limited editions, but what do you do if your limited edition gets ripped off? Pay $1,000 for a new one or what? Why can't Mobile Fidelity put these out (on CD) if they put them out on LPs or just re-release the LPs?

Added March 29, 1997

Ken Thomas (ken-barb@msn.com): Yes. I would like to see the Beatle collection released the way they were released in North America. But i would like them done in stereo. I liked the split stereo on the original albums. They were fun, plus i thought they sounded pretty good. The other note i have is why are they not reproducing the CDs like a lot of the older bands. They make it sound fresher and more up to date. That's it.

Dan Crawford (danc@diamond.nb.net): I remember the first time I ever heard a Beatles record. My cousin had his mother's old vinyl record called "Meet the Beatles". I was about 7 years old then, and when I head that first track, "It Won't Be Long", I became an instant fan. The U.S. version of "With the Beatles" was my first exposure to them, and I knew the tracks on that record as sort of a "rock-opera". In other words, they had to be heard in that exact order, because that's how I remembered them. When I got the British CD as an adult (I'm 23 now), it was just as great, but different, and I would have loved to have gotten the American version. So why not? Everybody wins. The record company gets more money, and the fans get to relive the memories.

Lizn2000@aol.com: The U.S. versions are something I grew up with. Being 15, we didn't get a CD player until recently, so up until that point I was listening to the old records. My father had gotten a complete set of the U.S. releases while he was working at some radio station. The order of the songs is forever ingraved in my mind. I recently bought "Revolver" and was confused for a while because I had forgotten that the releases in England were different. I'm all for releasing the U.S. versions. The Beatles' are so popular right now especially among my age group that it would be the perfect time to do it.

David Robinson (d.j.m.robinson%essex.ac.uk@seralph21.essex.ac.uk): It's aboout time we had the legit CDs. However, I think they'd have to solve the problem of them confusing casual fans with two "Revolvers" etc in the shops, by making the U.S. issues limited edition, or mail order only. This would help consolidate the Beatles own apparent predudice against these "not as intended" releases. I also suspect they'd work out very expensive purchases with two albums on one CD, as the Beatles would ensure a high price, similar to the situation with the Red and Blue albums which there was such a fight over.

AppleCorp3@aol.com: Uh..I'd have to say yes I would like to see some of the original American albums released on CD, but not all. Honestly, on the soundtracks to AHDN and "Help!", there are those annoying instrumental tracks. However the British\American "Yellow Submarine" did the same thing. Also I agree that the American versions are the ones we know, I always thought it strange for "Rubber Soul" to begin with "Drive My Car" (CD) and besides alot of the collections seem more right in that order ("Beatles VI" is a great album!) I'd like to see the old cover artwork that was on the albums (ex. the butcher cover which would seem pretty tame by today's standards!) I say what the hell, if people want to spend the money on buying CD's with songs they already have on CD, do it, put some more money in the Fabs' pockets, they really need it!

Zekeland (bdanylo@bellatlantic.net): I think they should be released. If you try to build you a Beatles collection using the English versions, you can't get all of the songs because of the "Long Tall Sally" and "Hey Jude" LPs and the songs that are only on singles.

Scott La Rock (SLAROCK001@aol.com): I have the complete collection of American LP's on cd (2-fers on Beat CD, as well as other sources). I couldn't be happier with them, as they are the albums we all grew up with, in the order that's been burnt into our heads. ("Yesterday and Today" was always my favorite U.S. LP, followed by "The Beatles Second Album" (great rock 'n' roll) Some of the stereo versions were alternates of their mono counterparts...i.e. "I'm Looking Through You" (2 false starts); "I'll Cry Instead" (longer version); "Money (That's What I Want)" (alternate intro) and "I Should Have Known Better" (extra riff on intro). The CD's are twofers, 2 albums packed onto 1 disk, a lot more music for your dollar.

Added Feb. 19, 1997

RadDiner@aol.com: I agree with you, especially remembering the way the song "And Your Bird Can Sing" sounded on my mom's original copy of "Yesterday and Today". I've never heard any reissue including the brown-label version that has the same guitar sound as that one. Also, remember in '87 when the CDs all came out, and everyone was disappointed that the first 4 albums were in mono?

Added Feb. 18, 1997

Michael Bitterman (mbitterman@mhv.net): I totally concur on releasing the U.S. Capitol albums as they were. My goodness, why were we all so crazy about the Beatles? We heard they're records on the radio, we bought them, we played them over and over and over. Why should we be denied mint copies of what we grew up hearing and loving? I'm well aware of the Beatles and George Martin's opinions on the Capitol releases-and they have a right to be pissed at Capitol's messing with the mixes and sequencing, but this is what I grew up with. This is all I knew and I'll tell you even thought there were less songs on them I loved them more and I loved EVERY song on them. Playing through the English "Rubber Soul" is somewhat long. There are songs there I just don't like hearing in that sequence. But I'll tell you that I will not buy the reissues if they only release them as single discs. I will only buy as a 2fer because I'll feel cheated otherwise and I'm sure everyone else feels the same regarding this.

James Lefante (jlefante@interstor.com): Well as we speak there is a new double CD with four American Masters ("The Early Beatles," "Meet the Beatles," "Beatles'65," "BeatlesVI"). These sound like master tapes, I have compared the album and CD and they are the same. I can't wait for the next batch. This is the way I remember them. Yes I love the EMI and they are true to the Beatles, but "Rubber Soul" the American is the best.

steven (Steven1@gte.net): Why not? I am only 19 years old and a relatively new Beatlemaniac, plus I have all the British format CDs. But, of course for collective reasons, I would like to have all the US formats as well, so yeah I think it would be great to have to the US albums in my collection as well.

Bernie C (bernwa@aol.com): I think it would be fun to have the original Beatle albums as they were released here in the states. Only problem for me would be that there would be less songs since Capitol Records cut a few off each album as well as scrambling the song order. Maybe they could offer bonus tracks.

Added Jan. 24, 1997

Allen Wilson (twilsons@access.mountain.net): I am for the American Capitol releases, especially for "Rubber Soul." Imagine my naivete and horror when, after purchasing the British tape, I realized this WAS NOT the album I'd memorized when I was 11!!! I don't like this version for three reasons: no false start to "I'm Looking Through You," No "I've Just Seen a Face" and then there's all that breathing by John in "Girl." On the British version, it sounds like John has a bad cold and can't breathe. On the American version (I found that tape in a box after I'd bought the British), the breating isn't as noticeable. Why not just release both versions and let the consumers buy what they want?

William Ulbricht (Bill.Ulbricht@worldnet.att.net): I agree. The more Beatles music available, the better.....

Barry W. Rickert (XZMS51A@prodigy.com): Growing up, all I heard was the Capitol versions. I think the songs and quality are much better than the U.K. releases. I hope that the U.S. versions will be out again soon.

Ramrod Bear (ramrod@erie.net): I thank our dutiful Webmaster for establishing this forum. In the discussion on the "official" release of the US-format LPs as CDs I have noted something overlooked in the comments I have read (though they may be noted in the CON side of the debate). When one gets down to brass tacks, something needs to be done about the accidental oversight of Crapitol and EMI regarding "A Hard Day's Night" and "Beatles For Sale" CDs being released in mono in the first place. Like many I was delighted with the BEAT CD series two-fer release of the American albums, not even so much because they rightfully or wrongfully restored the playing order to which I'd become accustomed, but because it was a CD release for the stereo mixes. Personally, I think EMI should admit "oops, we made a mistake" and release a stereo mix of "A Hard Day's Night" and "Beatles for Sale". They then should allow purchasers of the mono copies to send back their disks for a free replacement. We all know this won't happen. By pressing the American versions of the albums they'd more likely be dodging the issue of the poor quality on the earlier CDs. I should note a friend has observed the spine sticker on the new CD copies in stores of the existing releases carry the inscription "British"... which seems to imply an "American" version is in the works. One thing upon which we can probably agree, if EMI presses American versions of the albums they should most certainly be issued as two-fers. With the Anthology CDs clocking in at times over 70 minutes, it would be appalling to be required to purchase disks with 30-odd minutes on them just to get the stereo versions.

Matthew Snyder (hsnyder@crab.rutgers.edu): EMI/Capitol should approach this issue the way that jazz reissues have approached it: do definitive reissuing of all the Beatles albums, with improved digital mixes and including all the mixes available for all the tunes. Some of the digital remixing was done badly on the CD's, what with early fades on the endings of lots of tunes, etc., so this is a double opportunity to correct the sound and issue any variant "American" or other foreign versions (such as the high-hat intro to "All My Loving"). I DO NOT favor making separate CD issues of the American versions of the albums. It would be beyond crass, and I doubt the Beatles and Yoko Ono will stand for such action. Doing "complete" versions of the albums, though, with British and American mixes, would be more honest.