Korgscrew
Group: Super Admins
Posts: 3511
Joined: Dec. 1999 |
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Posted: Sep. 17 2005, 10:14 |
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They're both basically from the same 24 bit master. The standard issue CD may sound a tiny bit different, having been through the HDCD process (it acts like a limiter, unless the CD is played back on HDCD-compatible equipment, in which case the dynamic range is extended beyond that threshold - it's like a digital version of the Dolby/DBX noise reduction system, really), but I think the differences are neglibible. It really depends how subtle a difference you're looking for - the different reflectivity of the dual layer SACD compared with the single layer HDCD may make a slight difference to the sound, depending on the player, but again, I think we'd be talking something tiny (but if you're someone who notices that certain brands of CD-R sound better than others, then the difference may bother you). Hearing such differences would really involve setting up two identical players, putting one disc into each, and switching very quickly between them (ensuring, of course, that all levels were matched). I've never done such a comparison, so I can't actually help you with any answer (I think I've only played the CD layer of the SACD a few times, actually). They both have sounded fine to me, when played on their own.
The stereo SACD layer is noticeably more detailed though, and I find that the surround mix sounds particularly nice, so if you're considering getting an SACD player, I would recommend getting the SACD. It'll be worth hearing, when/if you finally get that player.
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