Recommendations discs for SACD/DVD-A trial

In the case of SACD, you have a 16 bit (redbook) CD version on the same disc. If you want to have two physically separate discs, rip a copy of the CD layer from the SACD.

Whereabouts are you in CT? I am in Stockbridge MA. (Go Red Sox).

Swampwalker...I think you need to get a SACD disc that claims to be "pure" DSD. No PCM involved with the master recording, or the mixdown process. On this disc, the redbook layer will have been made from the same original data, but with conversion to 16 bit 44.1 KHz PCM. Of course this may not be fair to the PCM approach, which might be better if the original master data was 24 bit 96 KHz PCM.

I don't think there is a way to do the redbook comparison for DVDA. However I don't see the need, because DVDA is basically the same PCM approach as redbook, but with higher resolution.

The usual comparison is between SACD and DVDA. Perhaps it is just because I have some superb European DVDA discs, but I give the nod to DVDA.

My Denon 2900 is away for the Underwood mod. I really don't want a tube in my system. Been there, done that.

Tvad...My listening is mostly multichannel. Why don't you beg, borrow or steal an extra amp and pair of speakers and give it a try. (If you can russle up a center channel also that would be better).

All DVDA can be played in 2-channel mode.

My measure of audio quality includes the spatial effects of multichannel, so my "best" discs may not be yours.

Try TACET DVD D 107 Mozart Flute Concertos (available from elusivedisc.com). This is nice clean audio, good music, and dramatic when played in multichannel mode. (This disc is the reason that I upgraded my rear speakers).

Try AIX 80008 John McEuen and Jimmy Ibbotson, Nitty Gritty Surround (Bluegrass). This disc illustrates the great flexibility of the DVD media. If you have a HT system, or can visit a friend who has one, try this disc on that system also. In addition to the DVDA program, it includes programs that can be played on a DVD-Video machine. The DTS programs are very acceptable, sonicly.

WARNING...THIS EXERCISE MAY BE HAZARDOUS TO YOUR BANK ACCOUNT.

Tvad...Strictly in terms of audio quality, DVDA and SACD are comparable, and both are superior to CD (IMHO). If SACD is "worthwhile" for stereo, so is DVDA. Buy whichever discs have the music you like.

However, for DVDA, and to a lesser extent SACD, not using the multichannel capability is like spending a lot of money on an expensive SUV, and then only driving it on smooth roads in 2-wheel drive :-)

Tvad...Do you race your Corvette at Lime Rock? :_)