It's probably because I've been listening to crappy-sounding MP3s on my iPod lately. Or maybe it's just a result of having used better recording technology than was available in 1994. Whatever the reason, I'm not finding it necessary to penalize the DualDisc release of "With Teeth" for sounding cold, harsh, and digital the way I did with "The Downward Spiral". Sonically, the new album still isn't exactly reference material; but I can deal with it considering that Trent Reznor's music is a little on the distorted side already. As for the surround mix? I like it. Fairly discrete with plenty of action in the surrounds, yet the focus stays up front. This is quite a nice package considering the DualDisc version comes complete with true DVD-Audio (48 kHz / 24 Bit), a music video, and CD compatibility---all for only a buck or two more than the standard CD version.
