I've also heard the Dracula print is murkier on the new disc compared to the old one -- anyone have that experience?

Strange, because the Frankenstein set seems definitely improved for image and framing in the "The Bride of Frankenstein", and much better soundwise (less digital noise reduction overuse) in "Frankenstein".

I'm not sure why there are two threads about this topic, but I was referred to this link in the other thread:

http://www.shillpages.com/uscmc/lcc-dracula.htm

It pretty much shows the Legacy version's picture is softer than the original. So in my opinion, it's wise to hold onto your original DVD if you still have it. But I also agree with others that this doesn't necessarily mean you should cancel your orders for the Legacy version, since you are, after all, getting House of Dracula.

why couldn't universal use the laserdisc transfer on the dvd and then claim its restored. (since doesn't the laserdisc transfer have little to no marks or specs on the screen like the dvd does)

Since I've never seen the laserdisc, I'd love to see some comparisons between that and the dvds.