Which is the best recording of Bach's Mass in B mi

You may need to be more specific:
Cd or record?
period performance or modern instrument?

If you want "period" performance Rushton has good suggestion with Gardiner/Archiv or perhaps Parrott/Virgin.
There are more modern versions in catalog, but I think Bach Mass especially lends itself to the unique insights/sounds offered by period performance.

If you want a more "modern" instrument sound, then on LP or a CD reissue (Philips) is Eugen Jochum conducting the Bayerischen Rundfunks orchestra and chorus...

Great suggestions. I'm looking for a CD. Also, I'm after suggestions for CD's that are technically very well done. I'm new to audio, but not new to choral music, having been a conductor for many years. I would like to hear what a good version, recorded well sounds like regardless of the style. I will probably end up with all the recordings anyway.

Baileyje.......where were you conducting, inquiring minds have to know.

I think the best version Bach Mass B minor to start and branch out from is Gardiner/Archiv, the sound is very good but not exceptional. Unfortunately this is still full price version.

For exceptional sound check the Gardiner/Archiv version of Monterverdi "vespro della beata vergine" this is very impressive recording with massive soundstage.

Megasam,

My conducting was not very glamorous. I was a choral music director for 15 years at the high school level before I was demoted to principal. I directed many "Messiah's" and Bach Cantata's, but never my favourite, the Mass in B Minor. In fact, I've never performed it. I've always lived in a rural area and just never had the opportunity. I will get the Gardiner/Archiv Mass and also the Monterverdi. I'll let you know how I like it.