OK, foobar2000 has an hdcd decoder. Only a relatively few cd players have it. When hdcd is used, volume drops 6 dB. It's possible that in mastering, they used an hdcd-capable a/d encoder, accidentally switched on hdcd for 3 seconds, and hence the volume drop when hdcd is encoded. If I switch out the hdcd decoding, foobar plays it fine.
Only one encoder had the capability, but it is favored my many top mastering studios. I have emailed John Golden, who did the mastering, about it.
Alternatively there is a fault in the decocding software.
Oh the drama. I'll keep you posted.
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