Are SHM CDs Really Better Than Regular CDs?
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- Опубліковано 30 бер 2024
- I first heard about SHM CDs a few years ago, and I was always curious about them. I had read that they were made of superior materials, and supposedly sounded better than regular compact discs. I always wanted to buy one and decide for myself if they actually did sound better.
I did recently purchase a Super High Material CD for the first time. As I mentioned in the video, I wanted to make sure it was a compact disc of music by a band that I was very familiar with, so I would have a good basis for comparison. I got my hands on the greatest hits compilation "Absolutely" by ABC. This is a band whose music I know inside out. I would definitely be able to hear any difference in sound, no matter how slight.
So what did I think? Does it actually sound better? In the video I give my detailed opinion, comparing the music on SHM CD to how it sounds on a standard CD. Overall, I did notice some differences, which I do discuss in the video.
As I have mentioned before on this channel, I am still a big fan of compact discs. It is still my preferred format for music. When one of my favorite bands releases a new album, chances are I will be picking it up on CD. Please feel free to check out my previous videos on why I still love compact discs.
In the video I also talk a little bit about the history of SHM CDs, and a little bit about the science of this format. As I mention, these CDs do tend to be a bit more costly, and in most cases you have to buy them as an import from Japan. I mention in the video that SHM is definitely a format that collectors and diehard fans of any particular band will certainly love.
Do you still collect compact discs? Do you still love CDs? What do you think of SHM? Do you think SHM CDs sound better? Do you own many of them? What kind of CD player do you have? Feel free to leave a comment!
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Massive ABC fan so this video is a 10/10
Have you tried blu spec CDs?
What did you listen to it with? High end boutique level player and super high spec speakers or headphones? Or just consumer grade or budget gear? It makes a difference! I hear a huge difference when using my best gear but not so much through budget headphones. To appreciate the improved sound, don't you need to listen through improved gear? I tend to think so... You can't drive your commuter car on a pro racecourse and expect improved performance, but drive that sucker in a pro racecar, and you will see the difference for sure!!! Just saying.
Sounds like another opportunity to sell a new remaster.
It is just a remix. Digital doesn't care about pit and lan shape.
The redbook CD standard is what it is, and tweaking the materials used to make the discs is going to have zero impact on the sound quality. This is just a marketing ploy designed to sell the same content again, at a premium. Some light remastering is applied to convince people that the “new and improved” format is indeed better than regular CD. Don’t fall for this marketing BS from the record companies.
Unless they are more careful when doing the transfer.
SHM-CDs most likely don't sound better than a regular CD, but a SHM-CD (which in Japan aren't premium anymore, but the new standard CD that replaced the older regular ones) should last longer, in proper condition, than a Redbook CD international standard.
@@dandinofat Let's all hope so.