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

Thanks @sfcfran 

Thanks for the answer.  I have about a dozen hdcd’s, mostly Grateful Dead and some actually sound a bit better, but they all sound good!

  I burned the Blue Specs to my NAS, a Melco N 100, and I can’t perceive much difference between playing them on my streamer and play the Blue Specs from the Oppo, into the same DAC

Ripping Blu Spec and HDCDs doesn't work, although SHM CD do pass their resolution on, I never heard an XRCD, so I can't comment.

Some DVD-A's are better than SACD and vice versa. The Steven Wilson remasters of many classic albums (YES, King Crimson, Tull etc.) in DVD-A and Blu- Ray are fantastic.

If you can't get what you want on DVD-A or SACD,  SHM Mini LP CDs are your best bet.

I've never heard a MQA CD, am I missing anything?

 

  I have heard of MQA CDs.  Since I don't do MQA I can't comment further.

Not sure what you mean about "ripping Blue Specs....doesnt work".  Mine ripped fine.  However when I play the rips back through my server, and simultaneously play the disc into the same DAC, and switch inputs, I don't perceive a difference.  This isn't unblinded, but if I use to standard CD issue vs the rip, then I do hear the difference.  I conclude it is the remastering

@sfcfran 

With all due respect, if you haven't tried a Jays or equivalent, it's very doubtful you've ever heard how good redbook can sound.

@mahler123 What I was trying to explain is that HDCDs are 20bit but you can't rip them in 20bit, only 16bit.

Blu Spec CDs have smaller, more precise lands and grooves which allow them to sound a little better when played on a CDP but when ripped this doesn't seem to be noticeable.

You own experience seem to reflect this.