Why do Classical CDs sound less Alive/Real/Present ?

Thanks, @recluse. There are many good DDD discs, but they weren't produced well in the 1980's. Early digital was pretty terrible for classical music; technology was in its infancy and there was a learning curve for the engineers and producers. Certain labels were able to make quality DDD discs and most came after 1990... Decca, Telarc, EMI, Phillips. I like RCA Red Seal for consistent quality recordings over the years.
DG were terrible recordings in the 80s; over-mic'd and harsh. I believe their digital is still inferior to other record labels; they continue to use close up multi-miking. And their 1970s analogue recordings sound very dry.

I very much enjoy AAD and ADD recordings; ADD are often remasters which have cleaned up the older recordings. Sony Classical had success remastering the Columbia catalogue which included many excellent performances and conductors (Bernstein with the NYP).
And Mercury Living Presence should be in every classical fan's collection.

@tomcy6 , I agree. See my post for the non-technical explanation of good and bad recording techniques.
But I don't see any major labels returning to the purer, more organic way of mic'ing an orchestra. Although some  chamber music and quartets are very well done.

As @elizabeth stated, you shouldn't have to experience sitting in the front row of a symphony recording at home; all instrument sections up front and loud. 

lowrider57, I think between us we've got the OP's question answered.

@tomcy6 , no doubt. I'm at the point of flogging a dead horse.

I would like to know about his room and components. There may be ways to improve the performance of his playback.