How can I tell what version of an LP is best ?

I'd like to believe gold standard should be audio reproduction closest to music performed live regardless of tube or SS or needle or laser or vinyl or compact disc - but your point well taken.

Moonglun totally agree,
My respects for youd knowledge in the analog field, i just learned more than a few things....
Analog fan here even with hi end dac and cds on aiff.
Nothing like the old pressing on harbeth with luxman via rega p5.
Super

First , thank you for your opinions and info .
I did not mean to diss or run down CD's . I have some that are better than the LP's of the same album . Mainly what I am refering to is what I call 'compressed and lifeless' . This is what I was refering to above when I mentioned the three CD's of the Doors . I also have some vinyl that has the same characteristics . It tends to take the enjoyment out of listening to the music as it does not
have any life to it .
I will not say that LP's are better than CD's . They are different and more to my and my wifes liking . We could tell this right off when we fired up our new turntable !
Much in the same way that we prefer tubes to SS .

I started this thread to alleviate the purchase of undesirable LP's.
While I can appreciate the excitement of the hunt for some of you , it is not always fun , exciting or even possible for others . Most of my hunting , these days , is done on line . Thanks again .

Happy Tunes

Find a good local record store. I am lucky to have a few in the Seattle area. It is more fun to thumb through the "bargain bins" thansearch for the best pressings of X.