CD sound quality: original pressings vs regular remaster vs MFSL, etc

Players over the last 10 years are SOOO much better sounding than they were for a very long time. In particular, redbook playback is much better.

MFSL - Really variable. Have a really bad Pink Floyed DSotM. You are better off with older releases.

berner99

Good advice as above. There has never been a better time to buy CDs.
If you like the sound of flat transfers, seek out the original pressings.
Reissues and remixes offer a modern sound but watch out for too much compression (loudness). Those MFSL discs vary in sound quality as well. Audiogon is a resource as is SH Forums. Use the search engine to read about your fave artist/title. Discogs is excellent as well. Have fun!

Happy Listening!

berner99
CD sound quality: original pressings vs regular remaster vs MFSL, etc

Use the "Dynamic Range Data Base" it’s your guiding hand to the best release copy.

One of the ones you mentioned Moody Blues Days of future passed.
http://dr.loudness-war.info/album/list?artist=Moody+Blues&album=Days+Of+Future+Passed
You can see the earlier ones are far less compressed better dynamic rage than the later ones.
I use this as a guide to give me the date (say the 1986) then click on it for the catalog number (820 006-2) West German made, and get a used one on ebay for $10
https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_trksid=m570.l1313&_nkw=820+006-2&_sacat=11233

BTW I have two of this and the 1986 German one is better than the more expensive 1990 MFSL which sounds a bit dull in comparison like they rolled off the highs at 8khz

Cheers George

Just to expand upon the comments from tomcy6, It’s actually easy to search for "best versions" of cd’s on the Steve Hoffman forum. Simply google "best version of ____" whatever title cd and the search will inevitably bring up a Steve Hoffman thread. Once there, posters quite often mention additional threads or other references. I have used this strategy for some time now and have acquired many CD’s using this method. I typically find them on Ebay or Discogs and try to stick to new items vs. used if possible. I have purchased some VG (very good) condition used CD’s and haven’t been disappointed yet. In a few cases the jewel case has been cracked but the CD has been in excellent shape. Good luck to you. Oh wait, I’ve just given away my strategy! ;-)

+1 @georgehifi . I do the same thing. 
And like @falconquest  i Google Steve Hoffman to find a recommendation.