Tim the Karajan 63 & 77 recordings have some noticeable differences, as does the entire Beethoven symphony cycle
recorded then. I much prefer the 1977 9th, it is a more inspired reading and the closing of the final movement has a passion and fury rarely seen by Karajan, thrilling experience! With very good recording quality this has to rank near the top of any list......Although DG must not agree with me as I believe they chose the 1962 version to remaster as "DG Original" series