[apercu]

Yep, never studied physics. Do know the difference between a sine wave and a square wave, though.

We can debate whether people can hear the difference, and mastering has as much (or more) to do with it, but I will take an AAA or AAD over an ADD all day.

[aidenn0]

There are some phenomenal sounding DDD masters from the late 80s. I believe it requires all 3 of these, which were present then:

1. Digital recording equipment had significantly improved

2. Audio engineers learned how to use the equipment

3. Heavy digital compressors weren't in use yet.