Basis Inspiration

In his review of the great Inspiration Turntable (and Air Tight cartridge), RH said the combination was the most "musically rewarding source (he's heard) in 22 years of reviewing".
 
I believe RH completely - but it seems a little strange to hear this after he praised Hi-Rez files (via the Berkeley Dac) as having "many qualities of a mike feed".  Maybe RH can clarify the difference between the Soolos-Meridian 808.3 (CD system), Hi-Rez and the Inspiration. The three best sources he's heard.
 
I know RH has been criticized for not mentioning state-of-the-art products he recently reviewed - seeming to "forget" the past. But here, it's important - what source gets us closest to a live mike-feed ? (with his type of music)