I would say they are definitely audiophile quality. Everything they have released is beautifully recorded. And live? Sonically stunning.
I will second the assertion that they are and have been one the most original bands of the last 20 years. Every recording was filled with wonderful songwriting and musical artistry. Sure, I'm just another opinion on the internet but I spent years as a professional musician (albeit non-famous and relatively low paid) and studio assistant both in analog days as well as digital before finally making a better living as a software engineer. So I like to think I know a little about quality audio and talent. :-)
Fantastic band!