o.k anybody know anything about shm-cd they claim there indistinguishable from the master?

By definition, SHM-CD (Super High Material CD) format features enhanced audio quality through the use of a special polycarbonate plastic. However they offer the same resolution (16bits/44.1kHz) as regular CD’s and sound exactly the same. There is no uptick in SQ with SHM-CD’s, atleast I couldn’t discern any difference in a direct comparison. To OP, they sound nothing like original master tapes.

IMHO, XRCD’s sounds markedly better than regular CD’s due to its painstaking mastering and manufacturing process. XRCD and SACD are the only reason I am still buying the discs.

I own a bunch of SHM CD’s and there is very little difference in sound between them and regular CD’s. However, I own “Paranoid” by Black Sabbath on a SHM SACD and the sound is truly something special.

I have a few SHM SACDs and in general, they sound a little hotter/brighter than other versions of the same material.  I'm sure they don't sound like the masters did.

Another +vote for SACD and XRCD.

Happy Listening!

guitarsam

Regarding SHM-CD, similar to SACD, some titles will sound closer to the master than others.  Peruse and research this matter over on Steve Hoffman forums. Plenty of ideas exchanged there.

Happy Listening!