Sorry if this isn't useful, but I can say that the RVG's sound great. I haven't really done any comparisons though, but you won't be dissapointed, especially with some of the discounting on them.
Both the RVG's and the Connoisseur series offer great improvements over the original CD releases. Coincidentally, I picked up a used copy of Kenny Dorham's "Whistle Stop" yesterday (RVG) for $4. It's hard to believe it was recorded over 40 years ago.
I wish I had loaded up on the limited edition vinyl releases from a few years back. The Johnny Griffin and Andrew Hill LP's I did get are terrific.
Best deals on the RVGs remasters are at cdnow.com. They used to BMG IT hink but are affiliated through Amazon. You can pick these up for $8.49-9.49, and free shipping is $25 or more.
I think some folks believe that the discs sold through clubs are somehow infereior, but I can't for the life of me believe it.
I believe the Connoisseur series was 20bit mastered and SBM. I own a large percentage of those issued. The RVGs are 24bit mastered and IMO sound excellent and as mentioned are reasonably priced. I also own a number of Japanese RVGs in mini LP sleeves that are a slight step up but are on the pricey side. I don't think you can go wrong with any of these. The original Connoisseur series was more costly than American RVGs. Both the Connoisseur and RVG series were issued in Japan first although the US Connoisseurs were not labeled as such in Japan. I own the 2 Blue Trains and possibly a XRCD but have never sat down and compared them all. If I do I'll try to report here. It is amazing how good some of these CDs sound especially since many were recorded in RVGs parents living room. Go figure!
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