I own SHM-CD’s and Blu-Spec 1&2 which conform to the Redbook standard. The SQ of these disc are based on the quality of the original master. Some SHM-CDs sound excellent as does a well mastered Redbook CD, so it’s hit or miss.
XRCD is completely different. Yes, the quality of the original master is important, but this is a different technology used to produce a Redbook CD. The SQ is outstanding, clarity is a good term to describe it. I can become immersed in the music, more than when listening to the original CD.
I was expecting prices to come down, but they’re still expensive.