I think it's factual. I've read other things that suggest this is the case. I've also read that over-compression also creates a harsher sounding CD.
When will people learn that QUALITY never goes out of style? Sizzle-boom sound may grab your attention quickly, but long term listening requires quality. There's plenty of music in my collection that I really like, but just can't listen to it at length due to poor recording quality. I tend to listen to the better quality recordings, even if it isn't from my favorite artist.
Once again, the promise of sound technology is hampered by the recording industry, which continues to think it knows what the consumer wants.
