The is a harmless curiosity, not a sonic holy grail. If you find it cheap, buy it for nostalgia. If you want the best sound, get the 2009 stereo remaster CD or 2019 2CD/Blu-ray anniversary edition . The “HQ” label was early CD-era marketing hype — ignore it for audio quality decisions.
Abbey Road was recorded in 1969 using the newly introduced transistorized EMI TG12345 mixing desk, which provided a warmer, brighter, and cleaner sound than previous tube-based desks. The 1987 CD captures this superior source material exceptionally well. The Beatles - Abbey Road 1987 HQ
Streaming services almost universally host the 2009 remasters. You will not find the 1987 HQ on Apple Music or Spotify. The is a harmless curiosity, not a sonic holy grail
From the moment the bass line of "Come Together" locks in with the drum beat, you will understand. You are not listening to a digital copy. You are listening to a 1969 master tape transferred with respect, honesty, and zero compromise. You are listening to history, in high quality. The “HQ” label was early CD-era marketing hype
In the age of streaming, physical media is making a comeback, and specific pressings have become fetish objects. The original (often called the "black triangle" or "West German target" pressing depending on the region) sells for significant money on Discogs and eBay.
Yet, despite this technical flaw, the 1987 version has its defenders. Why?