Jethro Tull questions...

I've been a huge Tull fan since their beginning in the '60's, which kind of dates me I guess. Oh well.

Anyway, I thought your post was sort of unexpected after I read the first line. If you're just discovering the group and are not familiar with their discography, then shouldn't you maybe get some opinions on their different phases and albums first? You seem to be looking for sound quality without first exploring their music to determine what you might subsequently like to buy. Do that first, then look for the best available master/remaster. Or maybe you've done this and I just misread your intention.

My Tull collection is almost entirely vinyl, so I'm not familiar with any digital remasters. I can't help you there, but I might refer you to the Tull website. It will have their discography. You should also be able to link into some dedicated Tull discussion boards for further questions from people more familiar with the CD releases.

It's certainly a no brainer to start with Aqualung though.

In terms of Jethro Tull, in my opinion, nothing is better than Stand Up and Benefit, in any form. Thick as a Brick is a very good concept album with exceptional musicianship and writing. Aqualung is a great album for catchy tunes as well as muscianship.

The whole catalog has been remastered. The albums you mentioned all sound great, but the gold DCC Aqualung is supposed to be better than the current remastered version.

The early Tull catalog was remastered about 5 years ago and the CD's sound pretty good. The best Tull albums are the first 5.

This Was
Stand Up
Benefit
Aqualung
Thick as a Brick

Also worth owning is the compilation Living In the Past.

Regards,

Rich

Rar and Tgrishman have my vote-
Stand Up is one of the best Rock/jazz LPs of all time.
Benefit is second.