So the SD on the DVDs is technically lower quality. (SD vs. HD.) But as you mentioned, the remaster is awful. I bought the Chosen collection, which was produced before the remaster I believe, so I prefer that especially with the lighting and keeping it in the original dimensions. This is it: Buffy the Vampire Slayer - The Chosen Collection https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000ARSJVU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_MMBA8W3S9149PCEC0E3T (Can’t believe how expensive it is!)

Just a heads up, this is the Buffy 39-disc 2010 set, NOT "The Chosen Collection" (40-disc 2005 set) which includes a bonus disc but is otherwise exactly the same (except for the different box).

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buffy_the_Vampire_Slayer_DVDs#Collections

Also, Netflix US shows seasons 1-3 in 4:3 and 4-7 in 16:9 widescreen, whereas the US boxed sets (both Chosen and standard) are 4:3 as they were originally aired.

"When the Region 1 DVDs were released, Joss Whedon decided that they should not have the widescreen version, because the show was directed and filmed for a 4:3 ratio. The extra material in the widescreen versions is never important for the plot, although it gives additional views of the sets and backgrounds." http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buffy_the_Vampire_Slayer_DVDs#Differences_between_versions

The Angel set is less convoluted. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Angel_DVDs

All these sets are Region 1, US/Canada.

editxx: That said, it's still an AWESOME deal, and worth getting even without the 40th bonus disc.