Multi-channel vs 2 channel SACD; difference?

All multichannel SACD discs include a separate area of the disc which has a stereo mix of the program, but still in the DSD digital format. Some SACD discs only have a stereo program. Hybrid SACD discs have a separate "layer", which is read by a different color laser, and which has a stereo program in standard CD PCM format so that it can be played on any old CD player.

Eldartford, thanks for the heads up. How does the 2 channel SACD mix compare with a good redbook remaster of the same music, say something by Patricia Barber?

Matchstikman...I am the wrong guy to ask as I rarely listen to SACD in stereo. However, I think that most would agree that either format can be good or bad depending on how the mix and mastering was done. SACD obviously has potential to be better.

Eldartford, you have a point there. I have some CDs that make me feel that I have reached nirvana and I will need no more, but then I put on something else that makes me wonder what is going on.

Eldartford, would you say most SACD users listen in multi-channel or 2 channel? I am a 2 channel man with no plans of multi-channel at all. If I go to SACD, it would be strictly 2 channel. Would this be a waste of the media's strong ponts?

Matchstickman,
I find the SACD--I listen in 2-channel only--format to be a sonic improvement over redbook. I know you're deciding on the next source upgrade, so an audition could be in order. If you haven't left Sacramento yet, you're welcome to come by for a comparison.
Howard