Steves, Not out till 18th, I have not previewed personally. I just noticed a review, which I skimmed but did not read in entirety at HTF announcing the release.

I believe the reviewer may have given it a 5/5 for transfer? (Lets hope). I remember a sentence, that the 5.1 mix was well done, and those who opted for the original mono channel (included) would be pleased with its quality. I got a fleeting impression the reviewer did not class it as a digitally remastered masterpiece, but as adequately and pleasingly laid down.

Will be checking my local B&N’s that week, they are the likeliest (if not most inexpensive) to find something in stock readily. This movie played my local satellite a few times this last year. What is it about the Italian Western soundtracks? They are (for an old recording) very different from others of their day. I believe I read that during filming of this movie (if not all-Italian Westerns) no audio is recorded during filming, - all sound is dubbed in later.

Maybe SH could shed some light on why Leone’s (to me) have a distinctive sound? I could see him demanding EXTREME and novel use of suround effects for home replay if avaliable during his day. (could you envision how he'd direct how he wants a bullet to sound ricochetting through a 7-speaker system! ) During Satellite feed, I remember thinking he tends to emphasis certain audio for effect at a seeming suddenly much higher dB level. Once late at night, I had the volume at medium level and the scene switched, opening with a train whistle. It had the same effect as a woman suddenly screaming in your ear. Ouch.


[This message has been edited by Smart Little Lena (edited November 12, 2003).]