Genesis SACD packages - a question

[Backdrifter]

I just want to get straight in my mind what these packages contain, and how they can be used. Am I right in thinking you get SACDs, which are like enhanced CDs containing both audio and visual, with the audio component playable only on SACD compatible equipment? And presumably the visual element playable on standard DVD players? Also, when it lists "2007 digital remaster" is this a separate audio-only CD version of the album, playable on standard equipment?

How will I know my stereo is SACD compatible - will I have had to buy specific equipment for this?

I hope any Genesis/hi-fi aficionados can help - thanks.

[Tom Braider]

Each pack contains 2 discs; one has audio only and can be played on any CD player (but you can't rip from it in a PC). The otehr is for DVD players and contains a DVD-Audio track of the album plus whatever video and other treats.

[CheekyChops]

The reply given in the previous post is not strictly correct.

Super Audio CD does not come specifically with 2 discs, one a CD and one a DVD. There are also different types of SACD discs, if you have a hybrid SACD disc, it will play on normal CD players and won't require separate hardware.

See here for info on SACD: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Super_Audio_CD

Genesis are one of many artists that have released their back catalogue in this format but they should stil be available in the original CD format.

[Backdrifter]

But hang on - are you saying this isn't necessarily the norm for SACDs generally, or that this is not what's available in the Genesis packages? Is Tom wrong in his description of the content of the Genesis boxsets?

I think these packages include hybrids with the new mixes and visual, plus standard CDs of the new mixes, but I'm not sure - that's what I was hoping to clarify. Yes, all the previous releases are still available but I've heard that the new mixes are a significant improvement so I'm keen to get them, but wanted to make sure I was getting material I can play.

Thanks for the link too.

Supplementary: the 1970-75 package is due for release - how do these and the other 2007 mixes differ from the mixes on the Platinum Collection of a few years back? Those were new mixes at the time, I recall. That Nick Davis sure has been busy.

[CheekyChops]

Sorry, that is not the norm for SACDs generally, Genesis may well have released theirs with a CD and a DVD. Apologies if that wasn't clear.