My Journey Back Through the MOFI One-Step Vinyl Collection

Jun 8

Remember when people used to say, "Get a new cartridge and it’s like having a whole new record collection"? Lately, I’ve been feeling that firsthand.

The last video I made was about a classical label, and I had started pulling records to downsize a bit. As I was clearing space, I rediscovered some reissues I hadn’t listened to in years—certainly not since I upgraded my entire system. The experience was eye-opening.

A new cartridge, a refined front end—it really is like hearing things for the first time. You can always find my current gear in the description box or watch my system updates if you’re curious.

That rediscovery got me thinking about my Mobile Fidelity (MOFI) One-Step collection. These releases are massive—seven albums take up a foot of shelf space. I considered thinning them out, but instead, I decided to listen to them again. It’s been years since I reviewed any of them, and some I never even talked about. So let’s begin a journey through my MOFI One-Steps—seven today, seven in the next installment.

If you enjoy this post, please let me know. A like or comment will help me gauge interest. And yes—if there’s enough enthusiasm, I’ll do something I’ve long resisted: open my sealed copy of Sunday at the Village Vanguard. I’ve held off because my OJC sounded so good, and the value of sealed copies has only climbed. But I’m itching to hear it.

1. Donald Fagen – The Nightfly

Still my favorite. This isn’t a shootout—I’m taking each record on its own merits. And The Nightfly holds up brilliantly. Digital recording or not, this One-Step has incredible depth, bass, clarity, and groove. "The Goodbye Look" and "Walk Between the Raindrops" were highlights. No digital glare. Just a fantastic presentation. This stays.

2. Simon & Garfunkel – Bridge Over Troubled Water

Mixed results. The beautiful, quiet moments (especially Garfunkel’s vocal and piano) are magic. But some production flaws become more evident at this resolution. Still, it sounded better than I remembered and is worth keeping.

3. Bob Dylan – Blood on the Tracks

Incredible. This one was instantly praised and it lives up to the hype. Tangled Up in Blue and Simple Twist of Fate are rendered with warmth, air, and dynamics. A keeper.

4. Marvin Gaye – What’s Going On

This one didn’t work for me. It feels clinical, EQ’d in a way that pulls it apart. The soul of the music gets lost. A forensic listen, perhaps, but not emotionally satisfying. I could let this one go.

5. Bill Evans Trio – Portrait in Jazz

Wonderful. Natural, organic sound. I used to own the OJC and I think this surpasses it. It’s stayed in my collection for a reason.

6. Bill Evans – At the Montreux Jazz Festival

Another winner. This digital One-Step still earned rave reviews, and I agree. It’s vibrant, energetic, and deeply enjoyable. One of the best MOFI jazz titles.

7. Thelonious Monk – Monk’s Dream

A late addition to my collection via a trade, and I’m so glad I got it. Warm, engaging, and full of life. Like the other jazz One-Steps, this one sounds natural and true to the source.

Looking Ahead

The next batch of MOFI One-Steps contains some titles that are sonically challenged from the start (Tapestry, CSN, etc.), so I expect more uneven results. But I’ll be diving in with open ears—and if you’ve enjoyed this, hit that like button so I know to keep going. And yes, Sunday at the Village Vanguard awaits…

Until next time, happy listening.

Scott Wilson