Black Sabbath, 2012 SACD SHM vs 2009 Sanctuary 44-16 vs HD Tracks 24-96

Listening test of three releases for Black Sabbath's first album.

1)  HD Tracks 24-96, Complete Studio Albums

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2)  2009 Germany Sanctuary release 16-44

 

 2009 Germany 2700817 Sanctuary

3) Japan SHM SACD ripped to 88/24 PCM

How they rate.  For once there's a clear winner, the HD Tracks release.  It sound smoother, fuller and more natural.  I think anyone with a trained hear would pick this release in 24bit 96KHz format.  Is the superior sound due to the format or the mastering?  One can never be sure!  The second best sound is from the Sanctuary release, which is great but not as full and clear, and third the SACD rip, which sounded harsh.