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Best "Hungarian Rhapsody" on vinyl?

I listened to a recording of this Liszt piece on the "Best of Naxos" CD, and haven't rummaged thru my vinyl collection yet, to see if I even have this on vinyl (I may already, I have so many that I haven't even had time to run them thru the cleaning machine). WHAT I WANT IS a recording with primarily the warmest/most colorful string tone, and the strongest contrasts between loud and soft.
carl_eber
rcprince
3,062 posts
 
I'm going to have to re-listen to it to see if it fits your criteria, and find you the LSC number, but there is an old RCA Living Stereo version with Fiedler and the Boston Pops which has excellent sound and performance. I don't think it's particularly rare, but finding a copy that hasn't been heavily listened to could be difficult. In addition, I think that the RCA Living Stereo "Rhapsodies" with Stokowski conducting was among the first of the Classic Records reissues, and I believe it includes the Liszt Hungarian Rhapsody No. 2 (is that the one you're looking for?). The Classic reissue is not as warm as the original (I have a beat-up version), but it has terrific dynamics. Hope this helps.
carl_eber OP
1,425 posts
 
Yes, #2. Thanks, I should probably look for an original Stokowski "Rhapsodies", then.
rcprince
3,062 posts
 
Perhaps, although don't dismiss the Classic re-issue. The improvements in the bass and dynamics outweigh what I think is a slight loss of warmth. I'm gonna listen to all three tonight (now see what you've done!) to refresh my recollection. I'll let you know if I've changed my mind.
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