06-27-12: MechansIf classical symphonic music is of interest, here is one example that is more than worthwhile. Toscanini's 1940 performance of Brahms 1st, which is IMO one of the greatest performances ever of one of the greatest symphonies.
I am curious about older mediums. Are there any really worthwhile 78 monos still around. What do they sound like on a good rig?
As you'll see, it has been transcribed to MP3 from the original 78's, and is available as a free download. It can also be played back directly from the website. A while back I converted the download into a CD, using an audio editing program, and played it on my main system. Although the sonics are obviously primitive by modern standards, I did not find them to be at all unpleasant to listen to, and they are certainly good enough to not detract from the performance.
Best regards,
-- Al