HDCD vs the Newer SHM-CD, BluSpec, UHQCD, etc


Has anyone directly compared the early 1990s 20 bit HDCD format to todays 16 bit SHM, BluSpec, UHQCD, etc, improvements of Redbook?

I’ve been very happy with the audio quality improvements I’ve heard on the recent generations of CD improvements, via improved surface materials, internal materials and cutting/forming of the reflective mirrors which the laser reads. I’ve tried them all (I think? lol), but have been particularly disappointed with HDCD, an early ’90s format. Theoretically HDCD should be better, despite lacking the improved materials and manufacturing techniques of today’s SHM and similar CDs. Then I realized my Oppo 205 doesn’t decode HDCD, and I’ve only been listening to the standard Redbook 16 bit signal of the HDCDs I’ve bought (5 over the past few years).

Looking around I’ve noticed that there is a vast array of music titles available on the used HDCD market. So I’m wondering if I should get a second disc spinner from the used market just for HDCD’s, with the intent of dipping into the array of music in that format.

I’d greatly appreciate anyone’s thoughts, who has compared these source materials, before I just go out and spring for an HDCD player to find out if it’s worth it to buy more HDCD discs, rather than just stick with the improved 16 Bit formulas available today. With that, yes, I also have a decent library of DVD-A, SACD & Hybrid SACD... but that field is limited, and generally pricy. Thanks!

sfcfran

@sfcfran 

 

It sounds like you have very definite opinions, none of which have been shaken by the responses you have gotten here.  Some of these formats that you are enthusiastic about were attempts to overcome early limitations on Red Book playback.  The biggest incremental increase in sound quality imo was the jump to DSD , either in SACD or downloads.  Otherwise improvements in Redbook replay have been profound and narrowed the gap.  You won’t realize the Redbook improvements with an Oppo 205 although it’s an excellent transport for DSD from SACD over HDMI.  I would get a better DAC and maximize Redbook, but you seem to have definite opinions and are on a mission 

I have an Oppo 93 and it plays hdcd just fine. When did Oppo stop supporting the hdcd format?

@curiousjim  From what I read, the latest series, 203/205, is where they stopped incorporating HDCD software.

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