Ive done extensive comparisons with SHM-CDs, and personally Id NEVER abandon SACD for it. As for the quality of SHM itself, its title-dependent. Some are quite good (though IMO not worth the premium over the normal CD), while others are pure rubbish. Theyre reportedly going ga-ga for it over in Japan, but to my ears, its not a huge cause for rejoicing. Ive bought a few out of curiosity, but Im certainly not going to replace my normal CDs with their SHM counterparts. No way.
SHMCD : Second thought on buying SACD player
So it has been said, the Super High Material CDs (SHMCD)close the gap by 80-90% between CDs and SACDs on top audiophile machines.... Just curious, for those having listened to SHMCD, do you have second thought on buying SACD players ? Why and why not ?
http://www.positive-feedback.com/Issue39/shmcd.htm
http://www.positive-feedback.com/Issue39/shmcd.htm