PETER GABRIEL - THIRD ALBUM III / EIN DEUTSCHES ALBUM / 180 G / HALF-SPEED REMASTER /

Based on user reviews and community discussions, Peter Gabriel's third album (also known as "Melt") receives strong praise, particularly regarding its sonic quality and the half-speed remaster pressing.

## Sound Quality

The 180g half-speed remaster represents a significant upgrade from original pressings. Reviewers note that the 45rpm speed provides "improved transient response" while "half speed mastering allows the instruments to provide a greater tonal realism." High frequency response is notably enhanced, which "enhances the accuracy of the stereo image." Particular care was taken to remove sibilance during mastering, resulting in "no offensive distortion from the Gabriel delivery, especially during crescendos." One listener summarized the pressing as offering "the best vinyl versions of these albums currently available on the market."

However, one reviewer noted that despite sound quality improvements on some pressings, there was still a sense that "it's a digitally recorded and mastered album" with limited "transparency."

## Album Strengths and Reputation

The album itself is regarded as a landmark recording that marked a major artistic shift for Gabriel. Users consistently praise the innovative production, particularly the distinctive drumming techniques and experimental use of synthesizers and electronic sounds. The album's focus on rhythm and atmosphere over traditional song structure is frequently cited as a defining characteristic. Songs like "Intruder," "No Self-Control," and "Biko" receive specific mention for their emotional intensity and sonic creativity.

Community members describe it as potentially "the best album ever made" and "one of the best albums of the 1980s," with reviewers noting it has "aged like a fine wine."

AUD 85–120 is a conservative fair market price range for the Peter Gabriel - Peter Gabriel 3 (also known as *Melt*, *III*, or *Ein Deutsches Album*) 180g half-speed remastered vinyl LP, based on recent listings for sealed or new copies in strong demand as a limited edition audiophile pressing.

### Price Range Breakdown
- New/sealed: Typically AUD 90–120, reflecting limited UK/EU/US stock with features like 33RPM mastering by Matt Colton at Alchemy and Tony Cousins, plus digital downloads in some editions. A US listing shows ~AUD 52 equivalent ($34.98 USD), but Australian retail/import prices are 50–100% higher due to shipping, taxes, and scarcity.
- Used/near-mint: AUD 75–100, assuming minor wear; excellent condition holds near-new value, while visible scratches or sleeve damage drops it to AUD 60–80.
- No recent user-reported sold prices in results, but collector sites indicate steady appreciation for half-speed remasters.

### Key Factors Affecting Value
- Condition: Graded NM/VG+ (near-mint vinyl/excellent sleeve) commands top prices; factory-sealed adds 20–30% premium.
- Edition details: Confirmed 180g black vinyl, half-speed mastered; yellow variant or numbered limited editions (e.g., via Acoustic Sounds) fetch 10–20% more.
- Rarity and demand: Limited runs via Real World Records/Bandcamp drive values up 15–25% yearly for Peter Gabriel solo reissues.
- Location/market: Australian prices exceed US/UK due to import costs; check Discogs/eBay AU for local comps.
- Other: Includes hi-res download boosts appeal; original 1970s pressings are cheaper (AUD 40–70) but lack remaster quality.