The Dead's early years are certainly the best imo. I have all of their albums they released in the 60's on record and I've never been more pleased with music in my life. But don't get me wrong, the rest of their career is just as good. Especially their 70's work; that was all pure genius.
agreed, also a big part of their evolving sound was the equipment advancements throughout the years, correct me if im wrong
Yes, Owsley was their sound man in the earliest days, up until about 1970, and he was obsessed with sound quality. This was always an outstanding aspect of the Dead.