So what are the best early 80's CRPGs?

[Trebuken]

Questron I + II
Phantasie series
Wizard's Crown and Eternal Dagger
Bards Tale 1-3
Shard of Spring
Demon's Winter

I was a big SSI fan before the gold box AD&D games. I believe all those are SSI except Bard's Tale.

[Serious]

CRPG = Computer RPG

Ive tried a good handful of them but would love to learn about more worthy titles.

I'm not sure if you'd consider Zork an RPG or not, but all of the Infocom games were amazing.. If you've never played one, it is something you should experience. I'd recommend starting with Zork I (though it may take you a while to get past the house..)