XRCD vs. SACD anyone?

The XRCD series is superb in sound quality, demonstrating
that the limiting factor in Redbook CD is NOT (for the most
part) the format, but rather the mediocre mastering of most
recordings. Similarly, other Redbook CD's are available
which are also outstanding i.e. Mapleshade and Reference
Recordings. Until the mastering of most recordings
approaches that of the formerly mentioned labels, SACD and
DVD-A is irrelevant.

As I own many CDs and have committed to this format for a long time, I too have been taken by JVCs XRCD offerings. I have six of them and prefer them over just about all the other mastering techniques from other companies who's CDs I own. I have never heard SACD, and this thread makes me feel a little better about that.

Try some remastered DMP 20 bits Gold CD

Enjoy!

I was going to get a SACD, but I agree with the above posts. 16 bit has plenty of kick in it, if done with love and respect for the music. Wait and see. Buy some DCC and MoFi cd's, you'll love them! Then you'll see what a difference mastering really makes. BTW, I used to laugh at these gold cd's. Guess the laugh was on me!

btw, AVOID last year's Capitol 'remastering 'of Pink Floyd and Rush. What a disappointment. Now, if the story of MoFi resurecting and releasing their catalog on SACD, that'd be another story.

KP

Can I throw another spanner in the works and ask where does HDCD fit in the scenario?
I've noticed a lot of Audiogoners mention HDCD discs as amongst their favourites................

Ben