GK, I also have a quasi-high end analog set-up, a VPI TNT VI mod./SME IV mod./Benz Ruby 3, isolation platform/Audio Interface SUT and $15K custom phono stage. About $30K+ and properly aligned. I just counted 79 RFR and FR pressings. I have heard all but 3. Generally, they are excellent; however, vinyl noise is a factor on many of them and the bass is absolutely not better than the MLP CDs. My speakers play down to 16 Hz with 3 12" drivers. As to your mischaracterization of the CDs, I don't know what you are using to play them on and I have already stated my EAR Acute based system. I do not hear reversed polarity at all. I hear sound usually at the apex of all recorded sound for the period. Tremendously enjoyable. There were some miscues in remastering such as in the first cut of the HI-Fi a la Espagnola or the dry sound of the mono release which I can't remember. The Starker CDs sound fantastic, equal to the LPs without surface noise. As to differences in sound by the different sets, they all sound excellent, just a little different.
On Capitol Kids Songs for Grown-Ups, I've heard 5 CDs, of which I own 3, Robert owns one and Tom Port of Better Records owns 1. 2 of my 3 copies are less dynamic and less focused sounding than the other 3 copies. So, we listen to the best copies instead. As I said before, the variability is present, just not as prominent as differences in LP pressings.
On Capitol Kids Songs for Grown-Ups, I've heard 5 CDs, of which I own 3, Robert owns one and Tom Port of Better Records owns 1. 2 of my 3 copies are less dynamic and less focused sounding than the other 3 copies. So, we listen to the best copies instead. As I said before, the variability is present, just not as prominent as differences in LP pressings.