I'm not opting for MQA. I know, I have 7,000 78s, 7,000 CDs and 25,000 LPs. However, I agree with the comment a well remastered CD beats a bad LP of the same. Often they are neck and neck. LPs can have a more ethereal, open quality but CDs can be just as musically viable. Electrical 78s often have a visceral, dynamic, tonally rich quality with one take performances that astound. Well, in my high end system (for decades I suffered from a lack of dynamic contrast with electrostat speakers or some other deficiency). I skipped cassettes and 8 track and haven't ventured into SACD although I have heard some fantastic remasterings lately in Blu-ray. I'll skip MQA. Especially if there is a built-in filter which negatively impacts CD playback.
MQA is Legit!
Ok, there is something special about MQA. Here is my theory: MQA=SACD. What do I mean by this? I mean that since there might be the "perception" it sounds better, then there is way more care put into the mastering and the recording. Of course I have Redbook CD's that sound just as good (although they tend to be "HDCD" lol)... Bottom line: a great recording sounds great. I wish more labels and artists put more time into this--it's great to hear a song for the 1000th time and discover something new.
What are your thoughts on MQA and SACD?
What are your thoughts on MQA and SACD?