I've gotten into SACDs in the past years. Generally very good, full sound in most instances.

I don't think that one can blame the CD format - it is the poor mixing & compression that the recording engineers seem to use today. I don't know why the artists put up with it. SACDs seem to be much better recorded & mixed, probably because they are deemed to be 'audiophile' type recording. Most include a 5 CH surround layer, although I use mine only in 2.1 CH mode.

Lots on Amazon but ebay is best for me in selection & price wise...

TAM