I've found that there is no single reliable remaster source that will always 100% do a better job than others, or even be better than original releases.
I see you are into 'classic' Sabbath - same here.
The quality of remasters is all over the map.
And so called 'expert source' threads on other forums about what release, remaster is 'the best' is subject to opinion.
I've found that some so called remasters that are highly regarded in the 'expert forums' are no better than the original CD release.
But - I will agree that not every CD sounds the same - remasters can and do sound markedly different - just not always 'better'.
And, unfortunately, some Sabbath release just don't sound good no matter what the release. For example, just did my own comparison of Sabbath Bloody Sabbath: 2 vinyl releases (one the original, the other a 'remaster') and 2 CDs - both different 'remasters'.
They all sound a bit different - but the bass mix in all is a smeared mess - I just can't get a good ear on Geezer's work for this release...shame that.
In comparison, I popped in a Mobile Fidelity remaster of Rush's Moving Pictures, and it felt/sounded like Geddy Lee was playing in my listening room - crisp clear punchy bass notes.
You do have to do your homework for what release you are interested in for a remaster - read up and then you really do have to get your ears on the release/remaster and make up your own mind.
I see you are into 'classic' Sabbath - same here.
The quality of remasters is all over the map.
And so called 'expert source' threads on other forums about what release, remaster is 'the best' is subject to opinion.
I've found that some so called remasters that are highly regarded in the 'expert forums' are no better than the original CD release.
But - I will agree that not every CD sounds the same - remasters can and do sound markedly different - just not always 'better'.
And, unfortunately, some Sabbath release just don't sound good no matter what the release. For example, just did my own comparison of Sabbath Bloody Sabbath: 2 vinyl releases (one the original, the other a 'remaster') and 2 CDs - both different 'remasters'.
They all sound a bit different - but the bass mix in all is a smeared mess - I just can't get a good ear on Geezer's work for this release...shame that.
In comparison, I popped in a Mobile Fidelity remaster of Rush's Moving Pictures, and it felt/sounded like Geddy Lee was playing in my listening room - crisp clear punchy bass notes.
You do have to do your homework for what release you are interested in for a remaster - read up and then you really do have to get your ears on the release/remaster and make up your own mind.