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Chances are that you won't get a civilized answer. Sorry about that. When the disc first came out, all the board saw was threads about the prod work. So, it's a sore spot with alot of members.
I only know this: The rough mixes were outstanding. Then it got mixed, and the band found some things they thought they could fix by mastering it. They mastered it. Problem is that it was mastered with settings that aren't for metal, but for POP records. That's somewhat of an explanation about it. (only from an interview with Metal Maniacs. That's where I got that) It doesn't answer the other questions, only the band can do that. If go to the top of the forum it has a STICKY topic: Got a question for the band? You can go in there and ask whatever you'd like to.
Personally, I'd PAY full price for the pre/rough mixes myself. I'd be satisfied if they did that, and some demo stuff on one disc, etc.
Just my .01 cents worth.