Just a quick comment for you fence-sitters to consider.
I've just started catching up on my Chronicles of Conan, having just read vols 6 & 7.
6 is fine, except for the annoying new lettering with all typos.
Vol. 7 is that same annoyance, as well as very dark, overwhelming colouring, which makes it quite a disappointment. I thought DH had worked out all the colouring glitches by this time.

I have decided not to buy the Barry Smith Conan Archives, despite being a HUGE Smith fan, because of two factors; the new colouring - which I'm not opposed to perse but it was pretty bad for the extent of Smith's run, particularly vol. 2 - and the new lettering.
While reading vols. 6 & 7 was surprised how much the new lettering diminished my enjoyment and all the typos are particularly glaring.

Obviously DH is solely intent on turning another quick buck with the Smith Conan and has no intent to present a definitive presentation.
That of course will be the next step once the Archives stop selling.
I can wait.