Is nowadays Digital Audio better than 80’s?

Prof David Herrin - Kentucky University measured dynamic range of vynil produced before 80’s, CD produced in 80’s and compare to CD produced after 00’s.

Interesting result that average dynamic range of CD produced in 80’s is 12-16 dB compare to CD produced after 00’s only 8 dB. It is paradox that dynamic range is lower while digital audio technology is much more advance.

Because of most people listening to music from handphone, CD producers have to compress audio signal to 8 dB so listener can listen to weak sound better and dont feel pain when the music level increase.