JVC XRCD versus SACD

The K2HD discs are great, but very expensive. I am amazed by the ones I have. I have the first three ELPs. I can't compare them directly to SACD because I don't have the same titles but you don't get surround with them which may not matter to you.

SACD is almost always better[of course you have to play it on SACD players]

K2HD,HDCD,XRCD,XRCD2 are just marginally better than your normal CDs.In some instances you might need a stethoscope to hear the difference IMHO.

The price outside Japan is outragously marked up.Pick up some titles if you happen to pass through Japan{which is also a great source of SACD]

>>K2HD,HDCD,XRCD,XRCD2 are just marginally better than your normal CDs<<

Disagree.

If the system is highly resolving there is a considerable and sometimes overwhelming difference.

This opinion is based on over 2 dozen CD, SACD/CD players and transport/DACS I've heard here over the past 18 months.

I live near a JVC distributor and have access to many of the titles.

I have had mixed results with HDCD some great some bad.

The few JVC XRCD titles I have are all absolutely excellent.

I think it mostly has to do with the care taken in the mastering process.

Of course when JVC start with master tapes from Sheffield labs to begin with (as are several of my XRCD's) I guess that says it all.

Just a caveat, I don't have a lot of XRCD's so my experience is limited.

I agree with AFeil - it takes highly resolving system to fully appreciate what this format has to offer.
Pricey but IMO - worth it.