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Beethoven Symphonies - best perf + sonics on CD

My CD's of Beethoven's symphonies were all issued in the late 80's or early 90's and sound flat and two-dimensional, with a back-of-the-house perspective. Vinyl is more dynamic but I can't tolerate the surface noise during the quiet passages. So, fellow A'gon members, I'm looking for your suggestions for the best sounding (good tone, big dynamics, front row perspective) and most thrilling performances of Beethoven symphonies on redbook CD. Thanks in advance for your suggestions.
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lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,403 posts
 
Brownsfan, I'm glad u found it. I have too many cds on order right now so I'll have to wait on the Karajan.
If u are seriously looking for a Brahms cycle on CD, I suggest Giulini/VPO on Newton Classics 1991. His Brahms is slower and he reveals every nuance that, IMO, other conductors miss. Plus those Vienna strings are sublime.

I don't own a SACD, so I look for the best Redbook available.
goofyfoot
1,342 posts
 
Brownsfan, will you give us a report once it arrives? Spending $60.00 for a Japanese import seems a bit steep, I hope the DG copy will not disappoint.
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,403 posts
 
This is the DG remaster, correct?

http://www.amazon.com/Beethoven-The-Symphonies-Gundula-Janowitz/dp/B0000C03AH
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,403 posts
 
Goofyfoot...I wish I knew about Furtwängler on Orfeo D'Or before I purchased the EMI separates. thanks for the info.
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almarg
9,670 posts
 
Shall we do Brahms next?
Good idea :-)

Symphony No. 1, which happens to be my favorite symphony:

For performance + sonics: Horenstein/LSO, Chesky CD19

For performance: Toscanini/NBC Symphony Orchestra (1940 performance), transcribed from Victor 78s

I've downloaded the latter from the link shown, as an MP3, transcribed it to a redbook CD-R, and played it on my main system. The primitive but surprisingly listenable sound did not detract significantly from what to me is a performance for the ages.

Note that it can also be played directly from the website to your computer.

IMHO. Best regards,

-- Al
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