I’m very aware of Hot Stampers as I think many of us are. I know the term is used by Better Records but didnt know it’s exclusive to them.
In answering the OP’s question regarding CDs, I explained, as you have, that even though a record may have the same matrix or production run number, ie, A -1, B -1, the early pressings are most likely to be of the highest quality. Thousands of records are pressed from one stamper. An early record or CD from the 4th run may sound better than a late 1st pressing because a fresh stamper is being used.
And, as stated, the only way to know which has the best SQ is a listening test. On Ebay you’ll see many records and CDs listed as 1st releases...highest quality possible, that have not been listened to or compared to other copies. So, it’s buyer beware. There are dealers like Better Records who have put in the time to review each copy and give it a rating.