I finally got a chance to fondle my new copy of FF Vol. 8. It is absolutely gorgeous. The linework, colors, paper, printing - everything is as good as it gets imo. To my eye, these softcovers look better on the printed page than the new hardcovers do!

A spot comparison to the 2005 hardcover:
Linework is pretty darn close - the softcover looks slightly smoother and more clear.
Coloring is very close, but you can spot some differences here and there. The colors are less garish in the softcover.
I don't like the glossy paper on the hardcover, while the SC paper has that nice, white semi-matte swag that is perfect for classic comic reproduction.
Extras consist of the same original art examples that were in the hardcover.
All Thumbs Creative did the art and color recon on the hardcover. Magical Michael Kelleher and Kellustration steps up on the SC.
The softcover's subtle improvements in all areas (esp. aesthetics) wins the day! Thank you, Cory, for continuing to make the effort to improve!

I can't wait to see what Golden Age Cap looks like!