Birthright #5 Page 06

[RedSunOfKrypton]

In Birthright number 5 page 6 it shows Superman tracing the radio signal of one of the remote control modules (from one of the attack choppers) visually, i.e. seeing the radio waves, yet it also shows a close up of his ear and text for various radioshows, news etc. implying that he's listening to the radio signals with his super hearing. Does anyone else agree with me that it seems implied post crisis Clark can now hear radio broadcasts?

EDIT: It occurs to me now that on page 9 Superman tells Luthor that the units were controlled with ultrasonic frequencies, which means that Superman seems to be able to see sound now too. Visual interpretation of sonar maybe, or just a mistake on Waid's part?

[Captain Kal]

It actuallly doesn't say Superman is seeing radio waves when he traces the signal from the control box to Lex.  So it's completely consistent to say that he was seeing the ultrasonic signals he said he traced when he told Lex this.

Yes, this does suggest Superman can see sound waves.  For a being that can see the entire EM spectrum, this makes sense ('scuse the pun).  His ability to see sound can be likened to our ability to see ordinary water waves or the distortion a heat from a fire makes to light travelling through the heat waves.  His eyes are just that much more sensitive, precise, and have a wider range of wavelengths that he could perceive.

[RedSunOfKrypton]

In issue 2 or 3 he says he can see the satellite detection beams, are these not radio based?

[Captain Kal]

They're both right.  He can see radio signals from the satellites and he's tracking an ultrasonic signal visually in #5.  Nothing in #5 says he has to be seeing a radio signal.

[ManSinha]

Am I missing something or does it seem like DC is finally moving to the powers and abilities of Pre Crisis Superman. I know he was significantly reduced in abiltites in the John Byrne version but are we (finally) seeing a return to his halcyon days?

[RedSunOfKrypton]

It seems that way.

[Captain Kal]

In a recent Superman, he threatens the Four Elemental Giants of Earth with destroying the very planet in retaliation if they kill all life on this world.

I'd say that's a Pre Crisis level feat.

[ManSinha]

I always have preferred the Pre Crisis Superman. Someone who has the next level of power than the Big Person Above (and yes we are not talking about the Spectre   )

The reasoning that he was too powerful for good stories has always seemed more a cop out than any basis rooted in rational reasoning.

However, there is one amusing fact; remember that Superman could never materialize in his own life time if he traveled through time? Well, in that case he could probably never interact with the Legion of Superheroes in the 30th century because he might very well be alive into that age.