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

Of course GIGO always applies but some of my CDs are on decent labels.
When I listen to symphony recordings as an example, the sound loses its presence
and sounds a bit like I am using a much lesser grade of equipment.

My system has all components in excellent shape as well as a good amount
of acoustic treatments. The room is not large at 16 x 14 x 8 + adjacent open kitchen
behind seating of 10 x 13,  so I am wondering if what I hear is just the nature of the
beast-ie. a lot of instruments going on at one time?

I seem to recall this has always been the case in other settings as well.

What say ye? 

gadios
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,418 posts
 
@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.

lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,418 posts
 
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. 
tomcy6's avatar
tomcy6
2,638 posts
 
lowrider57, I think between us we've got the OP's question answered.
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,418 posts
 
@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.

rvpiano's avatar
rvpiano
2,823 posts
 
I do believe the components and room treatment play a major role in determining SQ in classical music. If what you mainly listen to is other than classical, you’ve probably maximized your playback system to sound best with that type of music:  perhaps exaggerated highs and/or lows.  Classical music requires absolute neutrality of the audio spectrum since it utilizes the whole spectrum of overtones, especially in the orchestra.


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