I'll take a fresh listen between Red Book and download to see if the 24 vs. 16 bit makes a difference.
The recording is close-mic'ed. But apart from this the SQ is stunning, when replayed through XX/W8!
If you search various forums you find several dissatisfied listeners complaining about hard/edgy sound. But - HEY - they don't have the playback technology which WE have ;-)
Not hard and edgy here. Very interested in your impression of redbook v HD. Thanks!