hi md,
that's ok, i got an answer on the stereolab forum (they are not remastered).
a good introduction to the groop would be "emperor tomato ketchup". the original double album (vinyl) is the best, followed by the cd, but avoid the single album release from electra. it has a good mix of the lab's pop and experimental songs.
i'm also partial to:
mars audiac quintet: the lab in fun mode
transient random noise bursts with announcements: murky, experimental, lots of droning; my favorite lab album
sound-dust: their latest, wonderful goofy music, my favorite headphone cd
dots and loops: another production triumph (on vinyl; i haven't heard the cd). this album is often overlooked but is still great.
aluminum tunes: if you become a groopie this box set is required. it has the lab's rare b-sides and singles, and some of their best music.
honestly i'm a stereolab whore, i like everything they've released. and if you have an analog rig, the lab has you covered. you can find their most recent albums new on 180g vinyl, and their older stuff on colored vinyl and special 45rpm 12 inchers. the lab sounds best on vinyl, but get the uhf u.k. releases and avoid the electra re-releases.