What CDs to buy

@tomcy6 I do stream a lot of different and new music but was not sure about purchasing CDs simply based on this.  I had been under the impression that there were certain CDs to focus on but am admittedly ignorant about CDs and sound quality.  

@vonhelmholtz Thus far with only about 20-30 CDs played, I cannot appreciate a difference from streaming.  Streaming has improved with the CD6 and Qobuz over Amazon.  I have found that newly recorded music streamed sounds just as good as vinyl, maybe better.  For example, buying Van Morrison, Ryan Adams or Taylor Swift's latest album on vinyl seems to be a waste.  Picking up a NM copy of something from the 70s or 80s though typically beats out the streamed version.  

@kota1 Makes sense....just wasn't sure if there were particular labels or anything to focus on or if it was just as random as vinyl regarding what release had the best sound

I listen to classic rock, blues, soul, R&B, jazz and a little classical

Yes there are certain CDs in those genres that are considered classic for music and sound quality, but you probably know which ones those are. If not search this and other forums for Best Classic Rock CDs, etc.or just ask for examples of those and you’ll probably get a bunch of suggestions. People like to give their favorites a shout out.

just wasn't sure if there were particular labels or anything to focus on or if it was just as random as vinyl

Yeah, it's just as random.

My analog slightly bests digital with many recordings , so I might listen to CDs when the vinyl is out of print. Also, I might not want to spend the asking price for vinyl and prefer to own the digital, which means CD, or download. So, for me CD is not a primary focus, but plays a small part of what I listen to. The Three Blind Mice 45 RPM box is out, so this probably retires my CD. We will see.

All that said, I can’t rationally justify buying physical media when streaming sounds so good.  That last ten percent with vinyl play comes at a premium.