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beethoven string quartets

I've only been listening to these quartets for @ 3 years now and they've become some of my favorite music.. If anyone could make a recommendation of their favorite COMPLETE set of LVB string quartets and why, I'd sure appreciate it. I currently have a mixed bag: Cleveland 1-3, Petersen 4, Quatur Mosaiques 5&6, Emerson (middle), Cleveland (late). I just ordered Takacs to replace the Emerson. I've tried to get into the Emersons and can't get there. I'd like to also have a complete set by one quartet and there's a lot to chose from. I'd prefer to go DDD, but have no problem with ADD if very well recorded. thanx for any and all suggestions!
classical1
blptwp
40 posts
 
I have the complete set of vinyls of Beethovan string quartet by Quartetto Italiano, philips label. I know the whole set has been digitalized. I love the vinyl set. I haven't heard the CD set. I don't listen to CDs because I find records are more satisfying musically, especaially for classical music. The Quartetto Italiano quartet was known for doing their recording by memory and they have been together as a group since they came out of music school. Their music is superb. If you see this set. Buy it.
libor35
26 posts
 
You might also want to consider the Budapest Quartet, in various incarnations on Sony.
sc53
719 posts
 
I have the Tokyo Quartet and the Alban Berg Quartet on CD and the Philips Box--Quartetto Italiano on LP. I think each set is beautiful in its own way.
swklein
136 posts
 
I surely like the Tokyo: you can't go wrong with that set. But the classic set is the Vegh. Somewhat older recording, somewhat dry sound, but the set to have if you're having only one.
buxter66's avatar
buxter66
103 posts
 
The quartetto Italiano set is on CD, philips. I agree with the above posts that it is very well recorded and are given committed, cultivated readings. They strike the rare balance of depth, transparency, spirit, character and at the same time avoid pedantry or sanctimony. They are very listenable. For historic, check out the Capet, Hungarian or Busch string quartets.

The live library of congress set on the Bridge label with the Budapest are fantastic performances.
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