Coldplay on Quad 988

Viva La Vida (CD) is not th e stuff that audiophiles drool over, which is too bad, because it could be.

I recall "Parachutes" being better overall but would have to give another listen.

Thanks everyone. I was getting worried.
I will sleep better and listen to the true good recordings I enjoy.

The 'A Rush Of Blood To The Head' cd especially tracks #3 & #6 sound very good to my ears.
For me, the better ones' system is the better the lesser engineered cd's will sound, not the better your gear the more unplayable cd's will sound.IMHO.
If anyone wants to donate their unplayables, of which their seems to be many, I know a good home that will gladly play them, and enjoy them, also! lol........

Coldplay's "Parachutes" Capitol Reissue Album on 180g LP is nice and sounds just fine. Distortion is not a problem on this album. On La Vida on CD is ok, although I'm not a fan. Parachutes is better in my opinion.

Although most of the above posts re recording quite true, I'd also take a second look at the transient performance, separation and dynamic (contrast) capabilities of your other gears as well. Especially the source, pre-amp.