@ suntech
Then definitely check out DVDBeaver’s “DVD Review 2001: A Space Odyssey” and know that you saw it the best way. Every home-consumer release (Blu-ray, too) as been all over the quality-map!
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@ skoal
However, the MGM 1998 DVD (and speaking of DVDBeaver’s review) is interesting to see compared to it’s fellows (including the Warner 1999 DVD). It comes out looking color-closest to Criterion Collection’s “Kubrick’s Blessing” laserdisc releases (thanks to PDB & althor1138 for their captures).
Of course, like the rest, the MGM 1998 has it’s issues (worst of which is sharpening halos).
BTW, realize that the original six channels into 5.1’s five channels would be a loss by deletion or mixing. That was the reason for suggesting 7.1 – keeping the original six as fully discreet channels on digital media.