The style guide discussion of SACD media lists the three possible layers (CD layer, SACD layer: 2 channels, SACD layer: multichannel) but does not recommend what order these appear in. Consequently in a multi-disk release group like:
where multiple SACD releases also exist, the virtual media are ordered in every possible permutation. (CD, 2ch, mch/ CD, 2cd, mch; CD, mch, 2ch/ CD, mch, 2ch ; CD;CD, mch,mch; 2ch;2ch etc).
Is there (or should there be) a rule to bring order here. In the above instance there are just two physical SACD disks, and my feeling is that the correspondence between the virtual layers and physical disks ought to follow some sort of prescription.
If there is any prior discussion on this point, please give me a pointer as I was unable to find any.
The few I have entered I progress in order (CD layer, SACD layer: 2 channels, SACD layer: multichannel). Based on putting the “classic” layout first and the “fanciest” last. An order based on other releases I have seen that look the same.
I notice in the War of the Worlds example the majority follows that pattern too.
And now I look, I see what you mean that it is even more confusing with 2 discs. Really should describe one disc at a time. Seems most sensible to be (CD1 layer, SACD1 layer: 2 channels, SACD1 layer: multichannel) (CD2 layer, SACD2 layer: 2 channels, SACD2 layer: multichannel)